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The weather across the UK has been highly unpredictable over the last few months. From heatwaves to hail storms, it's been hard to know what's coming next. According to experts, all this changeable weather puts boilers under stress and it's creating the perfect recipe for faults.

Heating and cooling experts BOXT say the unpredictable May weather is creating extra strain on home heating systems across the country. Constantly switching the heating on and off can cause strain on the boiler - and many won't notice until it's too late.

Adam Knight, lead Gas Safe engineer at BOXT said: "A lot of people assume boilers only come under pressure in winter, but these stop-start weather patterns can actually be just as tough on heating systems."

"We're seeing households flick the heating on for an hour in the morning, turn it off during warmer afternoons, then fire it back up again when temperatures drop.

"Add in wet washing draped over radiators and boilers are suddenly working much harder than people realise.

"The problem is that many faults stay hidden and can build up through spring and summer, only becoming obvious when the heating is needed every day in winter.

"That's when we tend to see the consequences of pressure issues, trapped air or sludge build-up that's been developing unnoticed for months."

There are a few signs to keep an eye out for that can let you know if your boiler is struggling.

• Radiators taking longer to heat up
• Uneven heat around the house
• Gurgling, banging or whistling noises
• Boiler pressure dropping repeatedly
• Heating switching itself off unexpectedly
• Hot water temperatures fluctuating

If you have noticed any of these it's important to book an inspection with the experts sooner rather than later. It's often cheaper to book services now than in the winter rush when everyone turns the heating back on and realises they need help.