Play all audios:
WITH WARMER DAYS ARRIVING ACROSS THE UK, MANY HOUSEHOLDS MAY BE TEMPTED TO IGNORE HEATING ISSUES FOR NOW. 09:10, 31 May 2025 British Gas, OVO, EDF, EON and Octopus customers who have
chimneys have been issued a warning over their chimneys. With warmer days arriving across the UK, many households may be tempted to ignore heating issues for now. But one energy expert warns
that summer is the perfect time to make low-cost improvements that could dramatically reduce winter bills. Gordon Wallis, at heating oil suppliers Your NRG, says taking action while the
heating is off gives British Gas, OVO, EDF, EON and Octopus customers a head start before colder weather returns — and helps avoid unexpected costs when energy use ramps up again. READ MORE
UK SET TO SIZZLE IN 'GLORIOUS' 27C MINI-HEATWAVE WITH 33 COUNTIES IN ENGLAND HIT “Most people only think about insulation when they’re already cold,” said Mr Wallis. “But summer is
the ideal time to check your home for draughts, seal gaps, and make energy-saving upgrades without the pressure of rising winter bills.” While turning your thermostat down by 1°C can save
over £100 a year, Mr Wallis says the first step should be fixing draughts that cause heat loss — and that means tackling common problem areas now, while the weather allows. Article continues
below “Poorly sealed doors let warm air out in winter — and can cause your home to overheat in summer too,” said Mr Wallis. External door keyholes may seem small, but they let in more air
than you think. A simple keyhole cover can block airflow effectively. “Old or single-glazed windows are major heat-loss culprits,” he said. “Loose or warped flaps can cause constant
draughts,” said Mr Wallis. Upgrade to insulated or magnetic flaps, or temporarily block them during colder months if not in use. Unused chimneys act like funnels for cold air, Mr Wallis
said. “A chimney balloon or removable draught excluder can block airflow and be easily removed when needed,” he advised. Article continues below “Install IC-rated lighting and seal edges
with fire-rated caulk to prevent air leakage," he added. “Insulating your loft hatch and sealing gaps in the roof prevents heat escaping in winter and improves comfort all year round,”
said Mr Wallis. “Extractor fans and air bricks should be fitted with backdraft shutters or vent covers that balance airflow without letting in cold air,” he explained. “Even when the sun’s
shining, energy efficiency should be on the agenda,” he added. “What you do now can protect your finances — and keep your home warmer — when winter comes around again.”