Tips for getting your home ready for winter
The days are shorter, nights are darker and it’s just getting noticeably colder overall. Winter is well underway. Here are our tips to keep you warm and keep your home protected during the cold period. There’s nothing worse than a boiler breakdown right when you need it.
Protect your pipes
Pipes bursting in winter is more common than you might think. Rapid freezing and thawing (or freeze-thaw) causes pipes to swell and ultimately burst which can be expensive to fix. The best way to prevent freezing is to cover the pipes with lagging which helps with insulation and reduces potential heat loss from the pipes.
Make sure your boiler is in good working order as early as possible
A poorly maintained boiler can end up wasting a lot of energy and in turn cost more to run or fail completely. There is also the fact that it also runs the risk of leaking deadly carbon monoxide. Because of these factors it is advised that you get your boiler checked as soon as practical before the main stint of winter kicks in. This gives you time to address any problems that may need to be rectified.
Bleed your radiators
If you find that your radiators are colder at the top compared to the bottom, then bleeding them is required. Bleeding releases any air that is trapped in the radiator that is preventing the heat circulating properly. The process isn’t complicated all you need is a bleeding key which releases the air. You can pick them up reasonably cheaply from all good hardware stores and you just need a couple of old towels to soak up any water that may leak out.
Clean your gutters
You should start this task in Autumn if you live near wooded areas. Gutters blocked by fallen leaves or other debris will inevitably start to collect water which will then potentially leak into your roof or down the walls of your home. This is another costly, yet avoidable repair job.
Minimise draughts
Winter will bring with it pesky chilly winds and they will get into your home anywhere they can. Check windows and doors for gaps that could produce draughts and seal with self-adhesive draught strips or for doors get a draught excluder.
If you need any help with plumbing supplies this winter contact us for friendly advice.
