When we approach the end of summer, we are asking our residents to start to prepare for the winter ahead. A number of problems can crop up in the winter months from condensation to the heating not working or blocked gutters. There are a few simple steps you can take in the run up to the winter to avoid these – it is best to be prepared:
- before the colder months are upon us, test your heating system to make sure it is working correctly. We recommend you run the central heating for 20-30 minutes, as this will allow you to check that all radiators are heating up as expected. This means any problems can be resolved before the winter, which should help to avoid any loss of heating or hot water when you need it most.
- make sure you know how to use your radiators/heaters and heating control system.
- make sure your gutters and drains are not leaking or blocked, and your windows and doors open and shut properly.
- make sure you know where your stop valves (stopcocks/isolation valves) are, and that they are regularly turned so they do not seize up. If they are already stiff, try applying some WD40 to loosen them. If you are going away for more than 24 hours, turn off the main internal stop cock/valve in your home.
- if you’re going away, leave the heating on a low setting to help prevent burst pipes if it gets really cold whilst you’re away. Ask a friend or family member to check on your home regularly.
- it is important that all gas, oil and solid fuel appliances and fires are fully checked every year to avoid the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.