Boiler Switch On Day

18th October 2023 is Boiler Switch On day, and as the temperatures begin to drop, it's now important to start thinking about switching your boiler back on to keep your home warm and comfortable. However, it's not always clear what steps you should take to prepare your system. In this blog post, we'll explore when you should switch your boiler back on, and what you can do to ensure it's running efficiently.

When to switch your boiler back on?

The ideal time to switch your boiler back on will depend on a few factors. Firstly, you'll want to consider the outside temperature. Generally, you should turn your boiler on when the outside temperature drops below 12°C, as this is when you're likely to start feeling the chill inside your home.

You'll also want to think about your individual circumstances. For example, if you work from home, you may need to switch your boiler on earlier in the season than if you're out of the house for most of the day. Similarly, if you have young children or elderly relatives living with you, you may need to turn your heating on earlier to ensure they stay warm and comfortable.

What should you do to prepare your boiler?

Before you switch your boiler back on, there are a few steps you should take to prepare your system:

1. Bleed your radiators

If your radiators haven't been used for a few months, they may have accumulated air pockets, which can prevent them from heating up efficiently. To resolve this, you can bleed your radiators. This involves using a radiator key to release the trapped air. Once you've done this, your radiators should heat up more quickly and effectively.

2. Check your thermostat

Your thermostat is an important component of your heating system, as it controls the temperature in your home. Before you switch your boiler on, check that your thermostat is working correctly. You can do this by turning the temperature up and waiting to see if the heating comes on. If it doesn't, you may need to replace the batteries or call in an engineer.

3. Inspect your boiler

Before you switch your boiler back on, it's important to inspect it to ensure it's in good working order. Look out for any signs of damage, such as cracks or leaks, and check that the pilot light is on. If you notice any problems, you should contact a qualified engineer to carry out any necessary repairs.

4. Turn your heating on gradually

When you switch your boiler back on, it's best to turn your heating on gradually, rather than all at once. This will help to prevent your system from becoming overwhelmed and reduce the risk of any damage occurring. Start by turning your heating on for an hour or two each day, and gradually increase the amount of time as the temperatures drop.

By taking out Boiler & Central Heating Cover before a problem develops, you can further protect your home against unexpected boiler and/or central heating breakdowns, loss of heating and hot water and more. You can also include an annual boiler service to make sure your boiler is working at its best.