Getting your Home Ready For Winter

Stay warm and prepared this winter. Here's how to keep your home’s heating and hot water running smoothly during the colder months.

Winter Prep Checklist

Test Your Heating Now:

Run your heating on high (e.g. 28°C) before the cold sets in. You may need to allow up to 4 hours for underfloor heating to take effect.  

If it doesn’t work, contact us — we may need to check your HIU. Radiator/tap and other issues may need a plumber.

Keep Your Balance Healthy:

Staying on top of payments helps avoid disruption. If you need financial support, we can guide you to trusted organisations like StepChange or National Debtline. 

Check and Block those Draughts:

Close curtains to keep the heat in (especially overnight), seal gaps around windows/doors where possible, and use draught excluders to stop heat escaping. 

Set Your Thermostat Smartly:

Aim for no higher than 18–21°C in the day, 15–18°C at night. Lowing by 1°C could help save credit. 

Energy-Saving Ideas

Zone Heating:

Heat the rooms you use most, and lower temperatures in spare rooms.

Use Natural Warmth:

Let in sunlight during the day, close curtains at night.

Smart Features:

“Eco” modes or smart thermostats help you stay efficient.

Avoid Overheating:

Keep heating sensible — wearing an extra layer can be a cost-effective alternative to save you from needing to increase your thermostat temperature. 

PAYG Winter Tips

Signal:

Remember, there can be times when the signal is lost on your meter, meaning a possible catch-up of charges occasionally. Don’t wait until the last minute to top up.

IHD:

If you have an In-home Display (IHD), this is a great way of keeping up to date on your balance to avoid any unwanted interruptions

User Guides:

If you have once, make sure to read the user guide for your IDH or programmer to ensure you’ve familiarised yourself with it before winter hits!

Keeping a Positive Balance:

When winter approaches, energy consumption naturally rises. Therefore, we encourage our PAYG customers to build up a positive balance where possible. Keeping your account in a positive will mean you can enjoy your heating throughout the colder months without your account balance causing any unnecessary losses in your supply.