New research reveals that 22nd October, 2021, over a week before the clocks go back, will be the day when the majority of the United Kingdom turns on their central heating, for the autumn and winter seasons.
The research, commissioned by Toolstation, one of Britain’s fastest growing suppliers of tools, accessories and building supplies, found that 60% of households were worried about being able to afford to keep their home warm, during the harsh winter months.
Toolstation research on UK’s central heating needs
Over half of households (51%) were also concerned about the costs of keeping their power on, over a long period and have argued with other members of their household, about when to turn the heating on for winter season, while 54% were worried about the costs of their lighting, during the darker months.
The research also highlighted some worrying trends, revealing that only 28% of households check whether their radiators are working correctly, before they're ready to use them in the winter season. The research also found that 21% of households only service their boilers every five years, despite professional advice that boilers should be checked annually.
Plumbers expect high service call-outs to fix broken boilers
Toolstation surveyed plumbers and electricians, to get their thoughts on avoiding heating and electrical pitfalls
Toolstation surveyed plumbers and electricians, to get their thoughts on avoiding heating and electrical pitfalls, during the autumn months. 43% of plumbers said they expected to see a sharp increase in service call-outs to fix broken boilers, blocked waste pipes and leaking central heating pipes.
The survey also revealed that 63% of plumbers highlighted leaking or broken radiators, as the most common issue that they expect to be called out for repair. Additionally, 38% of electricians identified broken electrical heaters, as a key reason behind increased call outs, during the peak period and 27% expect to deal with circuit shortages.
Autumn season, Peak period to replace outdoor lighting
Outside of these issues, electricians also highlighted autumn as a peak time for replacing outdoor lighting, in order to tackle the darker nights and increase security, with 67% of them seeing a dramatic rise in household visits, to residents unaware of damaged lighting, until this time of year.
Commenting on the research, David Taylor, the Head of Buying at Toolstation said “Turning on the central heating is the sure sign of autumn arriving and this year, the big switch-on is set for the 22nd October, 2021, a week before the clocks go back. The colder nights, darker nights and mornings mean we’ll use more light, heat and energy, to keep our homes warm.”
Regular checking of boilers
David Taylor adds, “It’s important that households know whether their boilers are working as with the cold weather and with energy prices increasing, this could be an expensive time. Whether you’re an early bird or someone who likes to layer up in jumpers and socks, before reaching for the heating switch, it's important that you regularly get your boiler checked, and consider insulating your home, to help conserve energy.”
It is always best to plan ahead and be prepared. Toolstation’s research uncovered the top five things to check, before the big switch-on, including:
- 66% of plumbers recommend having the boiler serviced, before the winter sets in.
- 51% advised to clear the gutter of leaves and debris, to avoid leaking roofs, damaged foundations and rotted wood.
- 44% recommend checking the boiler’s pressure, which if too low can affect the efficiency of the home’s heating.
- 44% advised to have gas fires serviced.
- 37% of tradespeople advise households to check radiators and valves for leaks.
