An energy supplier has warned people to check their boilers are working - meaning plumbers could be inundated with new work this winter.
British Gas issued the warning as winter approaches in a bid to ensure people are warm enough once the temperature drops.
A company spokeswoman called for people to put on their heating for a couple of hours in a bid to expose and rectify any problems before the ice starts forming.
The call came after the firm's research showed that more than 20,000 boilers could break tomorrow.
Furthermore, almost 70% (68%) of people do not get their homes ready to deal with the winter weather, the spokeswoman added.
British Gas's managing director of home services Chris Jansen said: "We look after half the homes in the country, which means it's our responsibility to help the nation prepare their homes for winter.
"That's why we're encouraging everyone to check their boilers now, before the cold winter really kicks in, and ensure they don't get caught out."
The company is also advising people to bleed their radiators, to only heat used rooms and to hang heavy curtains.
Copyright Press Association 2010