Winter’s coming to Marlborough- boilers, plumbers, energy and money savings

Winter’s coming to Marlborough and I’ve been trying to find out about reliable local plumbers and people who deal with boiler breakdowns and similar nightmares, as well as ways that some or all of us can save energy and money this winter.

I had a plumbing related flood of epic proportions a few years ago, but the wonderful plumbing company who rescued me have since left Marlborough. Have you got a great plumber? Please do give them a sparking review on the Business Directory. Or if your business is not listed on the directory please add or claim it (for free), so that more of us know where to turn in an emergency.

For now, though, hopefully some of this information will be useful...

Services and shops

A list of Marlborough based plumbers can be found on the Marlborough People Business Directory.

If your boiler dies on you this winter, two Marlborough companies on the business directory are also on the Gas Safe Register- effectively the new name for being Corgi Registered. Both J Bates & Son and Carty Building Contractors Ltd are listed.

For minor plumbing items like washers try Rainbows in The Parade.

Winter grants and schemes

Winter Fuel Payment

For Winter 2010/11 at least, if you were born before July 5th, 1950 and meet the other criteria you may qualify for the Winter Fuel Payment. This is a yearly tax free payment to help people pay for heating in the winter. You could get between £125 and £400 depending on your situation. Whether or not the payments will continue after this winter is under review, this may well be the case for those below too. As well as using the website you can get a claim form by calling 08459 151 515.

Cold Weather Payment

If you get Pension Credit or income-related Employment and Support Allowance with a support or work related activity component in the main phase (whatever that is!) you may be eligible for a Cold Weather Payment of £25 for each week of very cold weather in your area, but they are very specific about the conditions under which these payments can be claimed- see website.

Warm Front Scheme- Heating insulation etc

If you, a partner or civil partner are receiving income or disability-related benefits you may be able to get money from government grants to help pay for heating and insulation improvements in your privately owned or rented home. Check here to see if you could qualify for the Warm Front Scheme.

Help from Wiltshire Council

Wilshire Council also has some information on home energy grants and assistance.

Be more green and save money

Home Energy Saving program

All low-income and pensioner households are entitled to free loft and cavity insulation. Everyone else can get half-price insulation. Call the helpline on 0800 512 012 for more details.

Energy Saving Trust has some great tips on how to stop wasting energy and money.

Picture of St. Peter's in the snow earlier this year by Val Compton.