In a blow for many Brits, Ofgem announced that the energy cap will rise by 2%, leaving many worried about their household budgets. Any chance to cut costs whilst running the heating during the upcoming cold seasons represents a welcome relief for families nationwide, and, according to energy and insulation specialists National Insulation Supplies, a mere 99p purchase could provide the answer to securing hundreds in savings.
Radiator bleeding keys can be snapped up for just under a pound from online retailers or local hardware stores. These tools help radiators run more efficiently, thus making properties warmer, helping to slash central heating expenses.
Experts estimate that up to 20% of your energy bills could be saved through properly functioning radiators – representing nearly £350 under this winter’s cap.
Bleeding your radiator represents a straightforward job requiring just five minutes per unit, needing attention only twice yearly.
Mitchell Wray, home heating specialist at National Insulation Supplies, explained: “There are often household maintenance tasks that can be neglected or forgotten, and for lots of Brits bleeding your radiators might be one of them.
“Lots of advice often is focused on the central heating and boiler itself, but often money is wasted by not checking your actual radiators, and in some cases, can impact your overall central heating.”
How does it save money?
Wray explained: “Bleeding your radiator means freeing air that has become trapped in your radiator. This is a problem because the radiator won’t heat up as effectively. Your boiler needs to use more energy to fight the air, costing you more money.”
Indications that your radiator needs bleeding:
- Your radiator is warm at the bottom but cold at the top, or you can feel cold spots in the radiator
- Your radiator “gurgles”
- Your home feels colder than usual, despite the heating being on
- You haven’t done it this year
Instructions on how to bleed your radiator:
- Turn off the boiler
- Ensure the boiler is turned off to prevent hot water from escaping
- Locate the bleed valve, usually a small square at the top of the radiator. Use the radiator bleeding key to turn the valve counterclockwise
- If you have multiple radiators, start with the one farthest from the boiler
- As air escapes, you’ll hear a short hissing sound. Keep turning the valve until a small trickle of water comes out
- Once the water starts to flow, turn the valve clockwise to close it
- Give it 15 minutes, and then turn back on the boiler ensuring the pressure returns to a safe level
