British Gas has urged 47,000 customers to act now before an amber snow warning. British Gas – which is rivalled by EDF, EON, Octopus, OVO and more – estimates up to 47,000 people may require extra support based on historical call-out data during similar weather conditions.
Dinesh Kumar, a service and repair engineer at British Gas, said: “With temperatures plummeting and snow and ice hitting much of the UK, more people will be relying on their heating systems to keep them warm during the cold snap.
“It’s important to make sure central heating systems are running smoothly and are prepared to withstand the winter weather. Carefully checking and maintaining your pipes to prevent cracks or bursts is important, as it can often help avoid expensive repairs further down the line.
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“Contact a qualified engineer if you run into any issues – we have nearly 6,500 engineers on hand to help.” Caroline Abrahams CBE, Charity Director at Age UK, said: “Living in a cold home is disastrous for your health as you get older.”
Adam Scorer, chief executive at National Energy Action (NEA), said: “While everyone should be able to be warm in their homes, sadly, we know that is not the reality for millions. The cold causes misery and ill health. It can, and it will, kill.
“With many already struggling with record levels of energy debt and higher energy bills, temperatures plummeting to well below zero makes this an exceptionally difficult time to keep warm. It makes it a public health emergency.
“Even heating just one room may be impossible. We hope people prioritise their health and try to heat at least one room – ideally to around 18 degrees. If you are still struggling, it’s important to reach out.” British Gas has urged households to check pipes, bleed radiators and block out the cold.
Turn off radiators in unused rooms and optimise your thermostat, it added.