As winter tightens its grip across the United Kingdom, British Gas has issued timely advice that could help households stay warmer while significantly reducing energy costs. The energy giant highlights a common but often overlooked issue that plagues home heating systems during colder months.
The £1 solution to uneven heating
Many homeowners notice their radiators developing cold spots, particularly at the top, while the bottom remains warm. This uneven heating indicates trapped air within the system, which disrupts the normal flow of hot water and prevents radiators from working at full capacity.
British Gas recommends a straightforward process called 'bleeding' to resolve this problem. The solution requires a specialised tool called a radiator bleed key, which typically costs around £1 and is readily available at most DIY stores across the UK.
Step-by-step radiator bleeding guide
Following the correct procedure ensures both safety and effectiveness when bleeding radiators. British Gas outlines these essential steps:
First, ensure your heating system is completely turned off and allowed to cool. This prevents any risk of hot water burns during the process.
Place a towel or shallow container beneath the radiator valve to catch any water that might escape once the air has been released.
Insert the radiator key into the valve, usually located at the top of the radiator. Turn it anti-clockwise gently until you hear a hissing sound - this indicates the trapped air escaping.
Once water begins to flow consistently without sputtering, promptly tighten the valve again by turning the key clockwise.
Finally, restore your heating system and check that the radiator now heats evenly from top to bottom.
Substantial savings and efficiency gains
The financial benefits of this simple maintenance task are considerable. According to home experts at Ideal Home, bleeding radiators can improve heating system efficiency by up to 15%, potentially saving households £45 per radiator throughout the winter season.
Beyond the direct cost savings, properly maintained radiators reduce strain on boilers, leading to lower energy consumption and extended system lifespan. This routine maintenance also contributes to environmental benefits by decreasing overall energy usage.
While household tools can sometimes substitute for a proper radiator key, specialised products offer better compatibility with different radiator types and often come with additional guarantees like lifetime warranties.
British Gas emphasises two crucial safety precautions: always allow radiators to cool completely before beginning work, and check your boiler pressure after bleeding multiple radiators to maintain system balance. Failure to monitor pressure could lead to further heating issues.
This simple £1 fix represents an accessible way for UK households to combat rising energy costs while ensuring homes remain comfortably warm during the coldest months of the year.
