Central heating

Gas and electric heating boilers can be set for the heating and/or the hot water to come on at times you choose.

Heating should not be switched off between October and April, even if you are away from the house in case of pipes freezing and bursting.

Economy7/storage heaters

Economy7/storage heaters are run from off-peak electric. The meter will show day (rate 1, standard) and night (rate 2, economy 7) readings. You will also see wall or floor-mounted electric powered heaters that look similar to radiators.

If you have such a heater, it stores heat at night on a cheaper off-peak electricity tariff then releases it during the day and evening. The heaters take 24 hours from switching on to produce heat.

Some heaters have a boost button or an instant fan heater which is charged at the more expensive day rate tariff. Only use boost buttons for limited periods to avoid large bills.

Two controls are normally available:

INPUT CONTROL DIAL: the amount of heat taken in and stored in the heater at night.

The first time you use your heaters set this control at 4 or above. You can then decide if you had enough heat during the day and change the dial accordingly.

OUTPUT CONTROL DIAL: the amount of heat the heater gives off during the day.

Normally, this should be set at 1 during the day and turned up in the evening if needed. Turn back to 1 before going to bed.

Never place clothes or other items on these heaters: it could start a fire or stop the heater from working.

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Winter months

It is the tenant’s responsibility to prevent damage to their homes as temperatures drop to freezing. Keep heating on at a low level at least 12 degrees centigrade even when no one is home or the property is vacant. This will prevent burst pipes, condensation, and mould growth which could affect the return of your deposit.