Consumers have been urged to carry out a series of home improvements before the winter cold sets in, which could mean more work for technicians who have completed a plumbing course.

Head of Churchill home insurance Martin Scott urged people not to wait until the weather has turned before sorting out plumbing problems.

Among the issues he highlighted were the need to release the air from radiators, service boilers and check for leaks, which could mean the expertise of engineers who have taken a plumbing course is in greater demand.

"It is easy to ignore your boiler and central heating in the summer months, but you should make sure they are in good working order," remarked Mr Scott.

Research by the insurance provider found that 42 per cent of people who utilise central heating do not have their boiler serviced.

This week, a writer on Herald Net advised people that appliances such as boilers all have life spans and will eventually break down.

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