A little bit of preparation could help you avoid winter damage such as burst pipes, costly draughts or damp in your home. Here are some of our top tips to get your home winter-ready ahead of time!
- Test your heating
Before the weather gets too cold, it’s a good idea to test your heating and check everything is working as expected. You may need to take steps such as bleeding your radiators to ensure your home will be well heated when you need it most. Radiators will likely need bled if they feel cold at the top and hot at the bottom. - Have your boiler serviced
For peace of mind over winter, we recommend a boiler service by a Gas Safety registered engineer. This can help catch any issues before they become a serious problem, and ensures everything is working safely. - Look after your pipes
Consider insulating your pipes to reduce heat loss and prevent them from freezing and bursting when the temperature dips below zero. You should also check your pipes for any cracks or gaps that need sealed. If you’re going to be away for a length of time over the holidays, it’s a good idea to turn off your water and let it run out of your system. With the pipework cleared, you should avoid freezes or bursting. - Check your windows and doors
Draughts are uncomfortable and costly! It’s easiest to spot a draught on a cold or windy day. Use a draught excluder or, for windows and other draught sources, you can try different physical barriers such as foam strips. - Ventilate your home
Good ventilation is key to reducing damp and mould inside your home. Condensation can often be the cause of damp, and this is commonly found in kitchens and bathrooms. Keep doors closed to these rooms when you’re cooking or running hot water. Use extraction fans where possible, or wipe down/collect any residue cold water from surfaces. If the weather is a bit warmer and you’re able to do so, open your windows from time to time to increase airflow within your home. - Clear any gutters
Take care when clearing any rubbish or leaves from gutters, or hire a professional to do this. Keeping gutters clear can help prevent clogs and build-ups of water which could freeze and cause damage in the winter.
Need emergency help?
If you find yourself in need of help, we are open for emergency repairs over the festive period. Please contact us if you are in need of emergency assistance.