Winter warmer tips
Now the dark and cold Wintery nights are upon us, we would like to take this opportunity to provide you with a simple guide to ensure your home remains comfortable and problem free over the next couple of months.
Heating
Now is the time to ensure your heating is working correctly. If it’s not, please report it through our online maintenance log here so we can assist you.
During the Winter months it is best to keep the temperature controls at a constant setting; this will also help to keep costs down as the heating system will only require a small amount of energy to maintain the heat setting rather than having to heat the entire property from cold, which takes more energy. Close your curtains at dusk to help retain the heat and make sure you place them above or behind the radiator to prevent the heat from escaping.
With condensing Combi Boilers, check to make sure that all vents are clear and not blocked with ice which will prevent the boiler from working.
Ventilation is key
To prevent condensation and mould forming, you must have good ventilation. Where possible avoid drying clothes on radiators or inside the property, as this will only cause water vapor which will condense causing mould to form on walls in cupboards and on clothes.
- After showering or cooking, always open the windows for 15 minutes to allow the steam to escape and ensure extractor fans are used where applicable.
- Make sure that there is enough of an air gap behind furniture to allow air to circulate and prevent mould on walls and the back of furniture.
- Open the trickle vents on your windows (normally at the top).
- Make sure that any tumble drier is vented outside or is a condensing model and open all windows in the kitchen when either is in use.
Remember the Pipes!
Make sure you know where your stop-valve is located.
If you intend to leave the house unoccupied (for more than a few days) please ensure you turn off stop taps over the Winter months to avoid burst pipes and keep the heating on a low setting to avoid frozen pipes. You can also pour salt down sinks and bath drains as this will help prevent freezing.
If a burst pipe occurs – turn off the main water supply tap for the house (stop-valve, most often under kitchen sink, but not always). Turn on the taps in your kitchen and bathroom. Switch off the boiler and the immersion water heating system and contact us.
If pipes freeze – you can try to thaw them out by using warm air or warm water – beware of using electrical appliances near water as this can be dangerous. If the pipes are part of the hot water system, turn off or extinguish the source of heat and contact us.
We have an emergency 24 hour call out service so if in doubt, please report your issue with our tool, here.
Not sure if you need to report it?
If you’re not sure if you need to report an issue or not, use our other guide..