British Gas issues warning as 34,000 households could have heating or hot water issues this weekend

British Gas is urging households to carry out simple checks now to avoid being caught out by the sudden change in weather.

After a warm summer and a mild start to autumn, many homes may not be ready for the colder conditions ahead.

The company’s own customer data reveals a pattern each year of a mini boiler switch-on coinciding with the first cold snap.

Most households tend to turn their heating on in late October, or after four consecutive days where minimum temperatures fall below nine degrees.

The Met Office is forecasting temperatures to drop by several degrees this weekend, with heavy rain expected in the east and south-east of England, while clearer skies elsewhere could bring frost and a crisp autumnal chill.

Peter Knowles, a British Gas service and repair engineer, said: “After the warmer summer months, it’s easy to put off some of those jobs around the home until the weather takes a turn.

“But getting ahead now can make all the difference. Checking your boiler and radiators are working as they should, protecting pipes and making sure your home is ready for wetter weather are all simple things you can do before winter sets in.”

Mr Knowles recommends starting with the boiler pressure gauge. When the heating is off and the system has cooled, the reading should sit between one and 1.5 bar.

If it has dropped, homeowners should consult their boiler manual for guidance on topping it up safely.

Radiators that feel cool at the top but warm at the bottom likely have trapped air inside. Homeowners should let the system cool down, then use a radiator key to release the air through the valve at the top.

It is worth rechecking boiler pressure afterwards, as bleeding radiators can cause it to fall.

Pipes in exposed areas such as lofts, garages and cupboards are particularly vulnerable when temperatures plummet.

Mr Knowles advises wrapping them with affordable pipe insulation, available from most DIY stores, to prevent freezing that can lead to cracks or bursts.

Sealing gaps around windows and doors is another straightforward way to retain warmth. Self-adhesive foam strips work well on window frames, while draught excluders can block cold air from creeping under doors.

Even small openings matter, with keyhole covers and letterbox brushes offering inexpensive fixes.

Furniture placement also plays a role in keeping rooms warm. Positioning a sofa directly in front of a radiator may feel cosy, but it prevents heat from circulating properly.

Loft insulation is worth inspecting too. It should measure around 250 to 270mm deep, and topping it up can significantly reduce heat loss through the roof.

Knowing where the stopcock is located could prove crucial if a pipe bursts during winter.

Mr Knowles suggests finding it now and ensuring everyone in the household is aware of its position, as they are commonly situated beneath the kitchen sink.

Clearing leaves and debris from gutters while the weather remains mild can help prevent damp and leaks during wetter months. If access is difficult, hiring a professional is recommended.

Households looking to reduce their bills should consider zonal heating, which avoids warming rooms that are rarely used.

Smart thermostats such as Hive can be paired with radiator valves to control temperatures room by room.

Those struggling with energy debt may be eligible for support through the British Gas Energy Trust, which offers advice and grants of up to £1,700.

Anyone left without heating or hot water who contacts British Gas before 11am can have an engineer sent out the same day, regardless of whether they are an existing customer.