Everyone told to do 20-minute check this weekend 'or face problems'

Amidst dropping temperatures, UK residents are being encouraged to perform a vital 20-minute heating inspection this weekend. As the chill sets in, thoughts naturally turn to maintaining a snug and warm abode through the colder period.

Industry professionals assert that Brits should act promptly when activating their boilers-even for brief intervals-or they risk an icy wait for a heating specialist. Mark Ingram, technical gas and plumbing expert from (ERR), advised: "We always advise that people switch their heating on just before the colder weather starts to arrive. Touch the radiators in every room and make sure they are hot all the way to the top. Within 20 minutes you will know if everything's ok, or if you have any problems."

"If you notice any cold spots you might need to bleed air out of the system. With bigger concerns you should always seek advice from a registered Gas Safe engineer."

Mr Ingram cautioned against delaying this crucial check, noting that procrastination could lead to longer waits for professional help. He detailed: "Between late October and November is when people typically start to turn their boilers on. But the last thing you want is to turn your boiler on and realise you have a problem, and then wait days for a gas engineer to come out. I spent 10 years as a plumber and 20 years as a gas engineer and this is the time of the year when things start to get really busy."

The UK is currently grappling with a significant shortfall of gas engineers, a situation that could escalate as the industry's predominantly senior workforce approaches retirement. Insight from the Gas Safe Register indicates that the average age of engineers is 55, imparting urgency to replace the seasoned professionals bidding farewell to their careers.

As skilled workers leave the profession more are required to fill their boots - a gap bosses at ERR are desperately trying to plug at their six training centres across the country.

Ricky Sharma, director at Engineering Real Results, said: "Gas engineers are in demand and it can be a well-salaried career with great longevity. An experienced gas engineer can earn around £40,000 a year and you don't need a degree to get started."