Cold spots in your radiator can be easily fixed with a simple tool that costs only 97p, according to a British Gas energy expert. If your radiator has cold spots, especially at the top, or if it makes gurgling noises and heats up slowly, you may need to bleed it to release trapped air. To do this, you will require a radiator key, which can be purchased for as little as 97p from Screwfix.
Before starting the bleeding process, it is essential to turn off your heating system and ensure that the radiator has completely cooled down to avoid any burns from hot water. Additionally, have an old towel and a container handy to catch the water that will come out during the bleeding process. Locate the small valve on the radiator and use the key to turn it anti-clockwise, releasing the trapped air until you hear a hissing sound. Once water starts to come out, catch it in the container, tighten the valve, and move on to the next radiator.
British Gas technical repair engineer, Peter Knowles, advises against turning the valve too much to prevent lowering the boiler pressure excessively. If issues persist after bleeding the radiators, it may indicate a more complex problem, requiring the expertise of a Gas Safe registered engineer.
In a related energy-saving tip, British Gas smart energy engineer, Jessica Rawstron, suggests keeping the oven door open after cooking to utilize the residual heat for warming the kitchen. By leaving the oven door ajar, the heat can transfer slowly, helping to maintain warmth in the house while also cautioning against children and pets near the open oven door.
Energy bills have recently increased, with the average household paying approximately £1,758 per year for gas and electricity. The price cap sets limits on unit rates and standing charges but does not cap the total energy bill, which still depends on consumption levels. Customers not on a fixed energy tariff fall under the price cap, with pre-payment meter payers facing an annual cost of £1,711 and those on receipt of bill paying £1,894 yearly.