Heating experts are urging people to check energy efficiency to make sure upgrades aren’t needed
10:54, 29 Sep 2025
Householders are being urged to carry out a check of their heating system’s efficiency ahead of the price cap rise and higher winter bills(Image: Getty Images)
Experts have issued guidance on five signs that UK households risk paying “hundreds more” on energy bills this winter. People are being urged to carry out checks to ensure they don’t need to upgrade their heating system.
The advice comes just as Ofgem confirms bills are set to go up by 2 per cent this winter. Gas and electricity costs are already set to rise due to higher usage during the colder, darker months, and the new cap will mean people are paying more per unit of energy during this more expensive period.
From October 1, the price cap will be set at £1,755 per year for a typical household that uses electricity and gas and pays by direct debit. This is an increase of 2 per cent compared with the previous £1,720 cap.
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However, costs could potentially be far higher. Old and outdated radiators are one sign of poor energy efficiency, which could mean UK households are paying out hundreds for wasted fuel this winter, adding as much as 15 per cent to bills.
Energy expert John Klee is urging UK households to reassess their radiators’ performance and has shared advice on how to tell when it may be time for an upgrade.
He said: “Radiators are often overlooked when it comes to heating efficiency, but they play a huge role in how much energy a home uses.
“Even if they’re still working, older models can harbour issues like sludge build-up or uneven heat distribution, both of which reduce performance. Replacing them with modern radiators can save households hundreds of pounds on energy bills and give peace of mind ahead of winter.”
People with providers such as British Gas, Octopus, EDF, E.ON, and OVO are all urged to check their home energy efficiency ahead of winter to ensure they aren’t needlessly paying higher bills because of inefficient heating appliances that should be upgraded.
Five signs your radiators may need replacing
1. Cold spots that won’t go away
If the top, bottom, or one side of your radiator stays cold even after bleeding, it may be clogged with sludge or trapped air. This reduces heat output and forces your system to work harder to reach the right temperature.
2. Slow to warm up
Older radiators often take longer to heat. That delay leaves rooms chilly and keeps your boiler running longer than necessary, which wastes energy and money.
3. Rust or leaks
Rust, pinhole leaks or discolouration are signs that the radiator’s internal structure is breaking down. Even a small leak can damage floors, carpets or furniture over time.
4. Constant bleeding
If you find yourself venting your radiators every few weeks, it’s a clear signal that water isn’t circulating efficiently through the system.
5. Spoiling the look of a room
Beyond performance, any radiators that are dented, chipped or discoloured can spoil the look of a space. Modern designs are slimmer, more stylish and improve both function and appearance.
John, a heating technology expert at BestHeating, concluded: “Replacing outdated radiators in key rooms could cut heating bills by 10 to 15 per cent, with costs often offset within two to three winters. Designer radiators start from around £100-£300, and straightforward like-for-like swaps mean upgrades don’t need to be disruptive.
“For homeowners not ready to commit to a heat pump, upgrading radiators is one of the simplest and most sustainable ways to boost efficiency and comfort.”
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