To prepare for the colder months ahead, please check your boiler pressure and heating system now.
A quick check of your heating now will mean we have time to sort out anything that isn’t working as it should be for when the time comes to turn it on.
Checking your boiler is easy. All you need to do is set your heating at a temperature which is higher than the current room temperature and your heating should come on. Please allow enough time to make sure your radiators are heating up before you switch off or back to your preferred temperature.
How to test your heating
1. Turn your heating on
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Set your thermostat to a higher temperature (around 22°C) and switch your heating on.
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Wait 10–15 minutes and check if all radiators begin to warm up evenly.
2. Check radiator warmth
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Feel each radiator from top to bottom.
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Cold at the top, warm at the bottom? You may need to bleed your radiators to release trapped air.
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Cold all over? Could indicate a boiler or circulation issue.
3. Inspect the boiler
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Look for any error codes or warning lights on the boiler display.
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Check the pressure gauge – it should read between 1 and 1.5 bar when the system is cold.
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Listen for unusual noises like banging or gurgling.
4. Test the thermostat
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Make sure the thermostat responds when you adjust the temperature.
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If it’s programmable or smart, check that the heating schedule is set correctly.
5. Check the condensate pipe
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This pipe can freeze in winter. Make sure it’s not blocked and is properly insulated.
6. Run a full heating cycle
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Let the system run for at least 30 minutes.
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Monitor for consistent heat and any signs of leaks or faults.
Having problems?
If you have any problems, they might be simply fixed by re-pressurising your boiler or bleeding your radiators. Some problems are very easy to sort. Our self-help ‘how to videos’ will guide you through the steps you need to take.
If you have more serious problems, please contact us now so we can get them sorted for you before the winter rush.
We are here to help
We know you might be worried about putting your heating on because of the cost, but we want to make sure you are as safe and warm in your home as possible. A cold home can mean damp, mould and condensation has chance to form which not only affects the health and wellbeing of you and your family, but your home too.
Not using your gas can be much more expensive, and even more dangerous, than using it. Using things like outdoor heaters or camping stoves to heat your home can put you and your family at risk. They can give off poisonous fumes or easily catch fire.
We want to support you if you are worried about your heating bills, or any other household costs. Please speak with us or visit our webpage for help and advice.
We are here to help you stay warm, comfortable and safe in your home this winter. Please check your heating now and let us know if you have any issues. If the faults are minor, but you can’t sort them yourself, you can report them online via MyAccount. If you have a heating emergency please contact us now.