12 November 2007
Frosty weather and boiler breakdowns could leave many Britons in the cold this winter.
According to research from uSwitch, 15 million householders could be forced to shell out for boiler repairs during the chilly weather ahead - with a potential total of £64 million being wasted due to their failure to get it serviced or to take out insurance.
Only 28% of those polled have emergency heating cover in place - while 43% skip their recommended once-a-year boiler check-up.
Moreover, uSwitch has found that one in five never get their boiler serviced - despite separate research showing that around one-third of boilers will break down within six years of being first installed.
Director of Consumer Policy Ann Robinson 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.
"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."
Region by region, the research found that the cost of boiler repair varied greatly - with plumbers charging widely diverging rates for what is essentially the same service.
The average hourly cost for Londoners was pegged at £76 - while those in the South West could call a plumber for £38 per hour.
© 2008 Adfero Ltd
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