- 15
- Oct
As the nights grow colder and longer, it is important to make sure that heaters and other winter warming appliances are in good working order, it has been warned.
Confused has alerted Brits to the fact that failing to do so could leave them with a decidedly chilly feeling when looking at the costs of repairing damage done by faulty oil burners, electric blankets and similar devices. It urged consumers to make sure that they carry out a thorough safety check when bringing out appliances for the winter season. In addition to removing the gathered dust - particularly from elements - it is also vital that people check for frayed leads and cracked fuses to avoid a costly and potentially dangerous fault with the device. For those who find them to be in a state of disrepair, a personal loan may be an effective way to purchase a new appliance quickly before the cold weather gets into full swing.
In addition to making sure heaters are in good working order, the price comparison site also recommended a number of good practice guidelines when using heating devices. Making sure that they are not left on for extended periods of time was said to be particularly important, as was making sure they were situated away from any exposed flammable sources such as potpourri.
Meanwhile, to avoid the potential catastrophe of a fireplace fire, Confused urged consumers to make sure that their romantic visions of roaring log fires are seen through safety glasses. It pointed out that open fires can easily send sparks out of the hearth and on to any nearby carpets. As such, it advised Brits to make sure the surrounding fireplaces were kept clear to avoid the risk of a toasty night in resulting in a speedy departure into the cold night air. Furthering this, it urged consumers to invest in a fireguard to make sure such circumstances do not arise.
Confused also reminded people that while chimneys may be out of sight, they should not be out of mind as the winter months approach. Flues that have not been cleaned for a long period can develop dangerous levels of creosote residues which in turn increase the likelihood of chimney fires. So too, the deposits also cause chimneys to overheat, which can lead to cracked walls and fire damage, the group pointed out.
Darren Black, head of home insurance at the price comparison site, commented: “Dusty electric heaters, roaring fires and boilers which havent been turned on for most of the summer heighten the risk of claiming on your home insurance during the winter. We are also seeing the evenings getting darker earlier, which provides the perfect concealment for opportunistic burglars. In addition to being increasingly vigilant over the next couple of months, having the right home insurance is an integral part of securing peace of mind. Confused customers could save an average of 193 pounds per year on home insurance policies, which demonstrates the importance of shopping around.”
For those who are looking to overhaul their home heating this winter for safety and comfort, taking out a homeowner loan may prove an effective way to meet the costs of new equipment and installation. Meanwhile, those keeping an eye on energy costs may do well to shop around for a new provider in the coming months. Earlier this month, Confused claimed that Brits are potentially wasting billions of pounds because of a failure to do so.
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