Each year, engineers uncover the same gas safety issues in homes across the UK. Understanding the most common problems can help you spot warning signs early and know when it’s time to call in a qualified professional. 

1. Poorly maintained or faulty boilers

Boilers are the most frequently used gas appliance in the home, and also the most likely to develop faults if they aren’t serviced regularly. Common issues include worn components, incorrect pressure, blocked heat exchangers or faulty safety controls. 

A boiler that hasn’t been serviced annually is more likely to break down, run inefficiently, or in the worse instances emit carbon monoxide. 

Warning signs to watch for: 

• Unusual noises such as banging or whistling 

• Pilot lights going out repeatedly 

• Rising energy bills with no clear reason 

2. Inadequate ventilation

Gas appliances need a proper supply of fresh air to work safely. One of the most common failures engineers find is blocked or removed vents, often sealed during DIY work or home improvements. 

Without adequate ventilation, appliances may not burn gas correctly, increasing the risk of carbon monoxide build-up. 

Tip: Never cover air vents or flues, even if they feel draughty. 

3. Unsafe or blocked flues

A flue removes harmful gases from your home. Engineers frequently find flues that are damaged, poorly fitted, blocked by debris or incorrectly positioned. 

If exhaust gases can’t escape safely, they can leak back into living spaces. 

Look out for: 

• Loose or disconnected flue pipes 

• Staining or soot marks around appliances 

• A strong or unusual smell near your boiler or fire 

4. Poor DIY or unqualified work

One of the biggest risks comes from gas work carried out by someone who isn’t properly qualified. Even small mistakes can have serious consequences, from gas leaks to unsafe appliance operation. 

In the UK, gas work must be carried out by a Gas Safe Registered engineer. Using a trusted professional helps ensure work meets safety standards and legal requirements. 

5. Lack of carbon monoxide alarms

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colourless, odourless gas that can be deadly. Yet many homes still don’t have working CO alarms, or alarms are fitted incorrectly or left untested. 

CO alarms provide an essential early warning if something goes wrong with a gas appliance. 

Good practice: 

• Fit CO alarms near gas appliances 

• Test alarms regularly 

• Replace batteries or units as recommended 

Stay safe with regular checks 

Most gas safety failures are preventable with regular servicing, proper ventilation and professional installation. If something doesn’t seem right, don’t ignore it. 

Using a competent, Gas Safe registered Engineer gives you confidence that work is carried out safely and to the correct standards. 

For clear, practical guidance on gas safety in the home — and to understand when it’s time to call a professional — explore the CORGI Trade homeowner guides and advice. 

Gas safety isn’t just about compliance. It’s about protecting your home, your comfort and the people who live in it. 

Common Signs Your Boiler May Be Failing: 

• Unusual noises such as banging, whistling or gurgling 

• Inconsistent heating or hot water 

• Rising energy bills with no obvious cause 

• Frequent resetting to keep the boiler running 

These issues can point to pressure problems, worn components, or reduced efficiency and should be checked by a professional. 

Boiler Pressure Problems 

Boiler pressure is one of the most common issues. 

Low pressure  

• Natural Loss: Pressure drops slowly over time, especially after bleeding radiators to release trapped air. 

• Leaks: Water pooling under the boiler, green stains, damp spots, or constantly needing to top up pressure. 

• Faulty Components: Malfunctioning automatic air vents or expansion vessels can cause pressure loss.  

High pressure  

Safety devices on boilers and cylinders should prevent high pressure, but homeowners may spot water coming from overflow pipes. Symptoms of high boiler pressure include the pressure gauge reading above 2.5-3 bar, water leaking from the pressure relief valve or pipework, strange noises (gurgling, banging, whistling), the system shutting down unexpectedly, or a sudden loss of heating/hot water, all indicating the system is under stress and needs attention to prevent damage. 

If pressure problems keep returning, expert advice is essential. 

Don’t Ignore Safety Warnings 

Always act immediately if you notice: 

• A smell of gas 

• A carbon monoxide alarm is sounding 

• A pilot light that repeatedly goes out 

These can indicate serious faults and require urgent professional attention. 

Why Regular Servicing Matters 

An annual boiler service helps: 

• Improve efficiency 

• Reduce the risk of breakdowns 

• Spot small issues before they become costly 

• Keep your home safe 

Older boilers that frequently break down may be better replaced than repaired. 

Choose Trusted Professionals 

Your boiler is central to your home’s comfort and safety. Always use a qualified, competent professional and never ignore early warning signs. 

CORGI Trade promotes higher standards, safer homes and trusted advice you can rely on. 

By sponsoring HIP LOY 2026, CORGI helps provide up-and-coming apprentices with valuable industry exposure, hands-on experience, and the opportunity to launch their careers with confidence and professional recognition.

HIP Learner of the Year 2026: What’s New

• For 2026, HIP will be touring six regions across England and Wales between January and February, bringing the competition to venues that include:
• This year’s Grand Final will again follow the regional heats, giving regional winners—and one highest-scoring runner-up—the chance to compete for the national title.
• Participants (Level 2 or 3 students/apprentices) must be aged 25 or under at the time of application.
• Entry is free, and every competitor receives a certificate for taking part, regardless of final placement.

Why CORGI Is Proud to Be Involved — And What We Bring to the Table

Supporting real-world skills and industry readiness

The competition tasks involve practical installation work — often mirroring the kinds of real-world plumbing and heating jobs learners will face in their careers. By backing HIP LOY, CORGI helps apprentices gain valuable hands-on experience under realistic conditions, building their technical confidence and professional readiness.

Showcasing CORGI’s Products and Solutions in Action

Through our sponsorship, our products are often used in competition tasks — reinforcing CORGI’s presence in the sector and highlighting how our solutions meet real installation challenges. This helps strengthen awareness of the CORGI brand and supports our commitment to providing industry-grade quality for installers.

Engaging Educators and Colleges via HIP’s “Meet the Lecturer” Sessions

HIP Magazine hosts a “Meet the Lecturer” series alongside the Learner of the Year competition, enabling educators to connect directly with trusted industry specialists such as CORGI. This initiative provides a valuable platform for lecturers to explore CORGI’s current offerings and the practical support we provide to the sector.

As recognised in HIP Magazine as Industry Specialists, CORGI uses these sessions to reinforce our position as a knowledgeable and trusted partner within the heating and plumbing industry. By participating in these sessions, lecturers gain insight into how CORGI supports both them and their learners throughout their careers.

Our diverse range of resources — including technical manuals, spare parts, workwear and specialist training support — helps equip educators with the tools they need to train the next generation effectively. This collaboration ensures that future professionals are well prepared with the latest industry knowledge and best practice, supporting a smooth transition into self-employment or modern, increasingly digital trade environments.

Looking Ahead: How CORGI Intends to Engage Through 2026 and Beyond

As HIP LOY 2026 unfolds across the country, CORGI will continue to:

• Actively support regional heats and the Grand Final through sponsorship and presence — helping ensure the competition remains a high-quality, industry-respected event.
• Provide products, technical documentation and support materials to colleges participating in HIP LOY, supporting both students and educators.
• Engage with educators through HIP’s “Meet the Manufacturer” sessions to build enduring relationships and help shape plumbing & heating training standards for the future.
• Share highlights from the competition (when social release permits), celebrating the dedication, skill and ambition of young learners — reinforcing CORGI’s commitment to the future of the trade.

HIP Learner of the Year continues to be one of the most important platforms for spotlighting emerging talent in the UK plumbing and heating industry. By backing this competition in 2026, CORGI is not only investing in the future workforce — we’re also contributing to a culture of excellence, innovation, and professional pride in the trade. We look forward to seeing the next generation of talent flourish, and to supporting them with the tools, knowledge and resources they need to succeed.

Myth 1: Low-carbon homes are only for new builds

Truth: Retrofitting existing homes with energy-efficient measures like insulation, draught-proofing, and renewable heating systems (e.g., heat pumps) is entirely feasible. In fact, the UK government is investing in retrofitting older homes to enhance energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions. ​

Myth 2: They’re prohibitively expensive

Truth: While some technologies require upfront investment, various government grants and low-interest loans are available to assist homeowners. Over time, these upgrades can lead to significant savings on energy bills. ​

Myth 3: Heat pumps are ineffective in cold weather

Truth: Modern heat pumps are designed to operate efficiently even in cold climates. Studies have shown that heat pumps can function effectively in freezing temperatures, making them suitable for the UK’s climate. ​

Myth 4: Lifestyle changes are necessary

Truth: Adopting low-carbon solutions doesn’t mean compromising on comfort. These upgrades aim to enhance home comfort while reducing energy consumption.​

Myth 5: Solar panels are ineffective in the UK

Truth: Solar panels can generate electricity even on cloudy days, albeit at reduced efficiency. Advancements in photovoltaic technology have improved their performance in diffused sunlight, common in the UK. ​

Myth 6: Only long-term residents benefit

Truth: Energy-efficient upgrades can increase property value and appeal to environmentally conscious buyers, providing benefits even to those planning to move in the near future.​

Myth 7: It’s solely about heating

Truth: Low-carbon homes encompass a range of features, including insulation, energy-efficient appliances, and renewable energy sources, all contributing to reduced carbon emissions. 

References: 

Renewable Energy Hub 

GreenMatch.co.uk 

Solar4Good 

uniquerenewableenergy.co.uk 

As the UK’s biggest event for the heating, plumbing, and renewable sectors, InstallerSHOW brings together professionals, innovators, manufacturers, and educators from across the industry to share ideas, showcase technology, and shape the future of the installer profession.

This year, CORGI Services was proud to be right at the heart of the action on Stand 5G43, where we rolled out CORGI Trade nationwide, introduced CORGI Skills to a new wave of professionals, and shared insights on the importance of trust, training, and technology in the home improvement and retrofit space.

Nationwide Rollout: CORGI Trade Takes Centre Stage

One of the headline moments for us was the official national launch of CORGI Trade – our innovative new platform designed to connect homeowners with certified, local tradespeople they can trust.

After a successful pilot in southern Scotland, the platform is now rolling out across the UK, and InstallerSHOW was the perfect place to introduce CORGI Trade to the wider installer community.

Engineers and tradespeople at the event were invited to register their interest, explore the platform, and discover how CORGI Trade removes the noise of lead-generation marketplaces by connecting consumers directly to a single, vetted tradesperson at a time – reducing competition, improving customer experience, and making it easier for professionals to do what they do best.

Training for the Future: Introducing CORGI Skills

Also launching at the show was CORGI Skills, our new training and certification initiative that helps installers upskill in high-demand areas such as retrofit, PAS 2035 compliance, and low-carbon technologies.

We were excited to share a free introductory course on Low Carbon Technology, available by scanning the QR code on our stand. This offering sits alongside our partner, CORGI Technical, who also made their free “Understanding Damp and Mould” course available to attendees – equipping professionals with knowledge that’s not only in demand, but essential for improving the safety and sustainability of homes across the UK.

Live Engagement: A Space for Great Conversations

Across the three days, our stand became a hub of activity , from in-depth chats with engineers and contractors to networking with manufacturers, industry leaders, and fellow organisations shaping the future of the built environment.

We even had the chance to speak with Prince Ansah of P&A Gas Services Ltd, who stopped by to talk about his experience as a gas engineer, the challenges in the field, and his impressions of CORGI Trade. The short interview will be shared on our channels soon, so keep your eyes peeled!

Exploring the Future of the Installer Profession

Beyond the stand itself, CORGI Services was proud to contribute to a number of powerful conversations during InstallerSHOW’s industry sessions – including panels focused on:

• The future of the installer profession
• Upcoming regulations and how to prepare
• Low-carbon installations, green skills, and smart home tech
• Challenges and opportunities in social housing and retrofit

These sessions reflected the shared urgency across the sector to prepare for the future – through training, collaboration, and a commitment to quality and trust.

Thank You to Everyone Who Made It Possible

We’re incredibly grateful to our partners, team members, licensees, and every visitor who supported us throughout InstallerSHOW. Whether you were there in person or followed our updates online, your support helps power our mission to deliver trusted services and drive positive change across the home improvement sector.

What’s Next?

With CORGI Trade now live and CORGI Skills gaining traction, we’re entering an exciting new chapter. Our focus remains on empowering professionals, protecting homeowners, and promoting innovation across heating, plumbing, and beyond.

If you missed us at InstallerSHOW, don’t worry – you can learn more about our services and join the movement by visiting:

🔗 www.corgitrade.co.uk
🔗 www.staging-node-g65bw9-csl1-dev-com.stackstaging.com

Or follow us on social to stay connected.

Catch Up on the Action

We’ll be sharing photos, interviews, and content from the show over the next few weeks, including insights from our team, feedback from visitors, and behind-the-scenes highlights. Follow us on social media and be part of the journey.

At CORGI Services, we’ve long recognised the connection between safety and well-being. It’s not just about checking the tools or installing systems correctly, it’s about ensuring that the people doing the work are safe, supported, and seen. That’s why we continue to champion mental health awareness across the home improvement and construction sectors, and why it still matters now more than ever. 

The Hidden Struggles in Our Sector 

The construction and home services industries are essential, yet they’re also facing a mental health crisis that can’t be ignored. 

According to industry research: 

• 1 in 4 construction workers have considered taking their own life 

• Men in construction are three times more likely to die by suicide than the national average 

• Only one in five tradespeople feel comfortable discussing mental health with their employer 

Behind every boiler fitted, bathroom installed, or extension built, there’s a human being, and many are carrying burdens we don’t always see. 

Our Commitment: Supporting the People Behind the Work 

We believe that safety should never stop at the jobsite, it should include emotional safety, too. 

At CORGI Services, our support for mental health isn’t just lip service. It’s an embedded part of who we are and how we show up in the sector. It’s in the conversations we have, the partners we work with, and the awareness we raise. 

That’s why we’re proud to support Band of Builders, a charity doing extraordinary work to provide mental health support and financial assistance to tradespeople and their families when life takes a turn. 

About Band of Builders 

Band of Builders began with a single fundraiser to help a friend, and has grown into a national movement dedicated to supporting tradespeople in need. 

From building accessible home adaptations for injured workers, to offering mental health support through the Big Brew initiative and crisis counselling programmes, Band of Builders brings the power of community and compassion to the construction and home improvement industries. 

They know, as we do, that sometimes a conversation can be the most powerful tool on site. 

Breaking the Stigma 

For years, there’s been a reluctance in the trades to talk about mental health. But times are changing. More and more businesses, employers, and self-employed professionals are beginning to recognise the importance of checking in, not just clocking in. 

We’re helping to lead that change. 

Our partnership with Band of Builders is one part of a bigger mission, to make it okay to speak up, seek help, and support each other. Whether it’s a colleague under pressure, a friend going quiet, or a worker taking on more than they should, there’s power in asking, “Are you alright?” 

Because no one should feel like they have to suffer in silence. 

What Can We Do? 

If you’re in the industry, whether you’re on the tools, running a business, or just starting out, you have a role to play in making mental health a priority. 

Here’s how you can help: 

• Talk more: Normalise conversations about mental well-being on site and in the van. 

• Look out for each other: Notice changes in behaviour or signs of stress. 

• Share resources: Let your colleagues know where to turn for support. 

• Get involved: Support campaigns like the Band of Builders’ Big Brew or Mental Health Awareness Week. 

And if you’re struggling yourself, know this: you are not alone. Help is available, and there is no shame in reaching for it. 

A Safer Future Is a Healthier One 

At CORGI Services, we talk a lot about standards. About doing things properly. About getting the job done safely. 

But the most important standard we can raise? It’s how we look after each other. 

Mental health isn’t a one-time campaign or a tick-box on a poster. It’s a culture. It’s a commitment. And it’s something we’ll continue to advocate for, through our partnerships, our content, our platforms, and the people we reach. 

Because if we want a strong, skilled, and sustainable workforce for the future, we need to care for the hearts and minds behind it. 

Join the Movement 

We’ll be sharing more from our partnership with Band of Builders throughout the year, including ways to get involved, stories from tradespeople, and upcoming awareness campaigns. 

In the meantime, if you or someone you know needs support, please visit:
👉 www.bandofbuilders.org 

Let’s keep the conversation going. Let’s make it safe to talk. Let’s show that in this trade, no one is ever alone.

Whether you’re a homeowner looking for peace of mind or a tradesperson looking to grow your business, CORGI Trade is designed to serve as a modern, intuitive bridge between need and expertise — backed by a name that people know and trust 

What is CORGI Trade? 

CORGI Trade is a digital platform that empowers homeowners to request jobs and certified tradespeople to respond — all within a fully CORGI-branded ecosystem that ensures professionalism, safety, and service quality. 

The concept is simple: 

1. A homeowner visits the CORGI Trade platform and submits a request for work. 

1. The request is automatically matched to the nearest qualified tradesperson in our trusted database. 

1. The tradesperson receives the lead and can respond directly to the homeowner to arrange the job. 

The CORGI Trade platform is smart, scalable, and built for the needs of today’s connected homeowner — while giving tradespeople a streamlined way to access new business, build their reputation, and deliver the quality of work they’re known for. 

Why It Matters 

Trust is everything in our industry. And right now, trust is being tested — with rogue traders, questionable ratings platforms, and homeowners unsure where to turn. CORGI Trade offers a reliable alternative:
✅ No gimmicks.
✅ No public reviews manipulation.
✅ Just verified professionals, meeting real demand, under a brand that people recognise. 

As we transition toward a low-carbon future, the need for skilled, qualified engineers and installers has never been greater. CORGI Trade is our answer to that challenge — a way to support our tradespeople, reassure the public, and play our part in shaping a safer, smarter built environment. 

For Tradespeople: A Smarter Way to Grow 

For engineers, plumbers, and installers, CORGI Trade isn’t just a lead generator — it’s a business growth tool. 

Here’s what you can expect: 

📍 Location-based job allocation: Automatically receive nearby job requests in your area. 

📞 Direct homeowner contact: No middlemen. No delays. Just fast, clear communication. 

🛒 Built-in access to CORGI Family products: Need parts or tools? The platform includes links to CORGI Family partner suppliers for a more seamless workflow. 

🧰 Built for professionals: Only certified and competent tradespeople will be listed, upholding the CORGI standard. 

And because the platform is CORGI-branded from top to bottom, you’re not just another listing — you’re part of a trusted national network that consumers already believe in. 

For Homeowners: Confidence in Every Click 

Finding someone to work in your home shouldn’t feel like a gamble. That’s why CORGI Trade has been built with homeowner confidence at its core. 

Benefits include: 

🧑‍🔧 Verified, competent tradespeople only 

⏱️ Fast, no-fuss job request process 

📱 Direct contact with professionals — no call centres or chasing 

🟠 Backed by the CORGI name — a symbol of safety and standards for over 50 years 

Whether it’s a gas boiler repair, a new heat pump installation, or everyday plumbing needs, CORGI Trade helps homeowners find the right person, right away — with the reassurance that every tradesperson has been vetted to meet industry standards. 

A Win for the CORGI Family 

CORGI Trade also benefits our licensees and long-standing partners across the CORGI Family. By centralising job requests and integrating access to relevant products and services, the platform offers multiple commercial and branding benefits for everyone involved — from product suppliers to certification bodies. 

It’s a powerful example of the CORGI ecosystem in action, working together to support competent trades and informed consumers in one place. 

Continuing the CORGI Legacy 

CORGI Trade is more than a platform — it’s a new chapter in the CORGI story. 

A chapter where: 

• Trust is matched with innovation 

• Consumers are empowered with choice 

• Tradespeople are supported to thrive 

• And our commitment to standards evolves for the future 

We’re proud to lead the way — and excited for what comes next. 

Stay tuned for the official launch date and follow our journey as we roll out CORGI Trade across the UK.
👉 Want to learn more or be part of it? Visit the CORGI Trade website or follow us on social media for updates. 

“Green homes are too expensive.” 

At first glance, it might seem true. Solar panels, insulation, heat pumps—those things must cost more, right?  

Not necessarily. 

Let’s dig into where this idea comes from, what the real costs and benefits are, and why green homes could actually be one of the smartest investments you make. 

The Myth: Green Homes Cost More to Buy and Maintain 

There’s a common belief that eco-friendly homes—built to high energy-efficiency standards or fitted with green tech—come with a hefty price tag. People assume that: 

• Green materials are more expensive 

• Sustainable design costs more to implement 

• Maintenance and upgrades are more complex and costly
  

But this is a surface-level view that doesn’t take into account the long-term savings, government incentives, and added value green homes provide. 

The Reality: Green Homes Save You Money Over Time 

1. Lower Energy Bills

Green homes are built or retrofitted to use significantly less energy. This means smaller utility bills every single month. 

A study by the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit (ECIU) and the Green Finance Institute found that new low-carbon homes could save homeowners around £1,341 a year in energy bills—adding up to over £46,000 across a 25-year mortgage. 

Source: The Guardian 

2. Grants and Incentives

In the UK, homeowners can access financial support for going green, including: 

• Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS): Up to £7,500 toward an air or ground source heat pump 

(GOV.UK – Boiler Upgrade Scheme) 

• Zero VAT on energy-saving materials until 2027
  

• Green Home Finance Accelerator: Support for lenders to offer low-interest green mortgages
  

These reduce upfront costs significantly, making upgrades like insulation, solar PV, and heat pumps much more accessible. 

3. Increased Property Value

Energy-efficient homes are in demand—and buyers are willing to pay a premium. 

According to research from Legal & General, UK buyers are willing to pay up to 20% more for a low-carbon, energy-efficient home. 

Source: Legal & General Group 

Not only does this improve resale value, but green homes also sell faster, especially as EPC ratings become more important in mortgages and rentals. 

What About Upfront Costs? 

Yes, some green technologies have higher initial costs—but those costs are falling. 

For example: 

Upgrade Typical Cost Annual Savings Payback Period 

Loft insulation £400 ~£400 1 year 

Heat pump £7,000–£13,000 (with grants) ~£500–£1,000 7–12 years 

Solar panels (4kW) £5,000–£7,000 ~£400–£600 8–12 years 

And once the payback period ends, it’s all savings. 

Plus, with rising gas prices and volatile energy markets, those savings are likely to increase in the coming years. 

Are Green Homes Only for New Builds? 

Absolutely not. Retrofitting existing homes is not only possible, it’s vital—especially in the UK, where more than 80% of the housing stock for 2050 already exists. 

Programs like the Great British Insulation Scheme and ECO4 help households improve energy efficiency, even in older or lower-income homes. 

Retrofitting an existing home with insulation, draught-proofing, and efficient heating can result in up to a 60% reduction in energy use. 

Source: Energy Saving Trust 

The Bigger Picture: Green Homes Are a Climate Solution 

Buildings account for around 21% of the UK’s carbon emissions, mostly due to heating. Greening our homes is one of the most effective things we can do to reach net zero. 

The good news? It’s no longer just a moral imperative—it’s also a financial one. 

Final Thoughts: Affordability Is About More Than the Price Tag 

When people say “green homes are expensive,” they’re often looking at the wrong timeframe. 

Upfront costs might be higher in some cases, but the total cost of ownership—including energy use, maintenance, and resale value—often comes out lower. And with financial support increasing and technology prices dropping, green homes are becoming the smart, long-term choice for more and more homeowners. 

Going green isn’t just good for the planet—it’s good for your wallet. 

References:

The Guardian – Low-carbon homes can save £1,341 a year 

Energy Saving Trust – Home Energy Efficiency 

GOV.UK – Boiler Upgrade Scheme 

Legal & General – Low Carbon Home Premiums 

Solar Panels: Effective Even Under Cloudy Skies 

Myth: Solar panels require constant, direct sunlight and are ineffective in the UK’s cloudy climate.​ 

Reality: Solar panels generate electricity from daylight, not just direct sunlight. This means they can still produce electricity on overcast days. The UK’s annual solar radiation levels are comparable to parts of central Europe, making it a suitable location for solar energy generation. In fact, as of 2023, over 14.4 gigawatts of solar capacity had been installed in the UK, contributing significantly to the nation’s electricity supply. ​ 

While it’s true that solar panels produce more energy during the summer months, they still contribute to energy generation in winter. On average, a 400-watt solar panel might produce around 2.4 kWh on a sunny summer day and approximately 0.4 kWh on a cloudy winter day. ​ 

Heat Pumps: Efficient Heating in Cold Weather 

Myth: Heat pumps are ineffective in cold climates and unsuitable for the UK’s weather.​ 

Reality: Modern heat pumps are designed to operate efficiently even in colder temperatures. They extract heat from the air or ground and can provide heating even when outdoor temperatures are below freezing. Studies have shown that heat pumps can be more than twice as efficient as traditional fossil fuel heating systems in cold temperatures. ​ 

Countries with colder climates than the UK, such as Norway and Sweden, have widely adopted heat pump technology, demonstrating their effectiveness in cold weather. ​ 

Conclusion 

The belief that solar panels and heat pumps are unsuitable for the UK’s climate is outdated. Both technologies have proven to be effective and are crucial components in the transition to sustainable energy solutions. By embracing these technologies, UK homeowners can reduce their energy bills and contribute to environmental conservation.​ 

References: 

Solar power in the United Kingdom – Wikipedia 

Do heat pumps work at freezing temperatures?  – The Guardian 

Sustainable architecture – Wikipedia 

“Keep your heating on low all day—it uses less energy than turning it on and off.” 

It sounds logical, right? But is it really true? 

The Short Answer: No, it’s a myth. 

Let’s break down where this idea comes from, why it doesn’t hold up in most homes, and what the experts actually recommend when it comes to efficient heating. 

Where Did This Myth Come From? 

The idea likely comes from the belief that heating your home from cold uses a big surge of energy, so you’re better off keeping a constant temperature all day—even when you’re not at home. 

But this only tells half the story. The real answer depends on how well your home holds heat and when you’re actually using the heating. 

The Science: Heat Loss Is the Real Cost 

Homes naturally lose heat over time. The greater the difference between the inside and outside temperature, the faster your home loses heat. So if your heating is on all day—even at a low temperature—you’re constantly replacing lost heat. 

In contrast, turning the heating on only when you need it reduces the total amount of heat loss over the course of a day, because your home stays cooler when you’re not there or asleep. 

“The Energy Saving Trust recommends heating your home only when you need it. If you’re out for large parts of the day, it’s more efficient to set a timer to warm the house shortly before you return.” 

— Energy Saving Trust 

What the Experts Say 

Here’s what official sources have to say about it: 

Energy Saving Trust: “The idea that it’s cheaper to leave the heating on low all day is a myth. It’s better to heat your home only when you need it.” 

National Energy Action (NEA): Recommends using timers and thermostats for efficient control rather than running heating constantly – NEA UK 

Centre for Sustainable Energy (CSE): Supports heating only when needed, noting that heat loss is ongoing throughout the day if the system is left running – CSE UK 

What You Should Do Instead 

Here’s how to manage your heating efficiently: 

✅ Use a Programmer or Smart Thermostat 

Set your heating to turn on 30 minutes before you get up or come home, and off when you’re out or in bed. 

✅ Set Room Thermostats 

Keep living areas at around 18–21°C, and lower temperatures in bedrooms. Don’t heat unused rooms unnecessarily. 

✅ Insulate Your Home 

Even basic upgrades like loft insulation and draught-proofing can reduce heat loss and make your heating more efficient. 

✅ Try Zoned Heating 

If you have the option, only heat the rooms you’re using. Thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs) can help with this. 

Bonus Tip: Consider Smart Heating Controls 

Smart thermostats like Hive, Nest, or Tado let you control your heating from your phone and learn your routine. They can help reduce energy waste and improve comfort without manual adjustments. 

According to Ofgem, smart thermostats can save users between 8% and 16% on their heating bills depending on how they’re used. 

Conclusion: Use Heating When You Need It 

Keeping your heating on low all day may sound like a shortcut to savings—but in reality, it can lead to more energy being used, especially in homes that lose heat quickly. Instead, set a schedule that fits your routine and invest in insulation and smart controls where you can. 

Efficient heating isn’t about running your system all the time—it’s about running it smarter. 

Sources: 

Energy Saving Trust – Heating Advice 

Centre for Sustainable Energy – Heating Controls 

Ofgem – Smart Thermostats 

National Energy Action