26 September 2007
Over 70% of UK households risk being left in the cold this winter as they have no emergency heating cover in place should their boiler break down, research has found.
As many households prepare to turn their heating back on after the summer months, a study by uSwitch has revealed that over four in ten people admit to not getting their boiler serviced annually, while one in five people have never had their boiler checked at all.
Nearly one in three boilers breaks down within six years of being installed, with repair bills for faulty boilers potentially setting households back up to £470.
As a result, uSwitch is calling on households to ensure they take swift action to get their boilers serviced, or risk a chilly time this winter.
Ann Robinson, Director of Consumer Policy at uSwitch.com, said: "Household budgets are stretched so tight that it's very tempting to try to make a quick saving by not bothering to cover things like your boiler.
"Unfortunately this small saving can end up costing you dear - if your boiler packs up this winter you are likely to be facing a £500 bill, plus the misery of trying to get somebody out quickly to sort it out for you - not much fun in the middle of winter.
"Many consumers may be put off because they believe that they have to take cover through their energy provider. This is not the case - it can be arranged separately so you are free to find the best level of cover and price for you.
"But, at the very least, consumers should consider the old saying that prevention is better than cure - even if you cannot afford cover it is still important to have your boiler inspected once a year to try and avoid problems before they occur. Failure to do this could damage your health and your wealth."
Last year five million householders switched their heating on at the beginning of October, while only 4% of homes were still yet to be switched on by the beginning of November.
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