Avoid Costly Winter Repairs: Key Autumn Maintenance Tips for Homeowners
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Households are being told of important maintenance jobs they should do around the home before the autumn cold sets in.
The experts at Vidalux.co.uk have shared a checklist of jobs to carry out to prevent high energy bills and keep the home warm and prepared for the colder months ahead.
As summer comes to an end, carrying out jobs such as servicing the boiler and bleeding the radiators can help the home be more energy efficient ahead of autumn and winter.
These simple tasks ensure the heating system works properly throughout the home and reduces the risk of breakdowns which can cost thousands.
Homeowners are also being advised to check for any gaps around doors and windows that could let in cold draughts and cause the heating to escape.
Andy Ellis at Vidalux.co.uk said: “The temperatures have already dropped and a lot of us are feeling the cold. Before autumn and winter settle in, there are a few important jobs everyone should be doing to make sure their homes are ready for the weather ahead.
“Servicing the boiler is a very important job that should be done annually, as it ensures the boiler is working properly and safely. Not servicing the boiler can lead to frequent and costly breakdowns.
“To make sure you’re getting the most out of your heating system, you’ll also want to bleed the radiators to get rid of any cold pockets of air. Leaving these in prevents the radiators from heating up properly and you’ll ultimately be wasting energy.
“Don’t forget to insulate any exposed pipes outside of the home or in the garage. If the temperatures drop, these can freeze over and burst which will leave you with a much bigger problem.”
Autumn maintenance jobs to do around the home:
Bleeding the radiators
Air can often get trapped inside of radiators, leading to cold spots and wasted energy. Before the cold settles in, bleed the radiators by using a bleed key to open up the valve on the radiator. Place a towel underneath to catch any drops of water and allow the air to escape the radiator, you’ll hear a hissing sound until it’s all out. When the noise stops, retighten the valve. When bleeding radiators make sure the heating is off.
Service the boiler
Servicing the boiler ensures it runs smoothly, safely and efficiently. Call a certified engineer to come and carry out the proper checks, they’ll give the boiler a full inspection by checking things like gas pressure, leaks, corrosion and ventilation.
Check your thermostat
A faulty or outdated thermostat can lead to wasted energy by turning your heating on and off at the wrong times. Consider updating to a smart thermostat which will maintain a consistent temperature and save energy.
Seal windows and doors
Even the smallest of gaps can cause heat to escape and let draughts into the home. Inspect doors and windows and use a sealant to fill in any visible gaps or apply weather strips.
Insulate exposed pipes
Any exposed pipes in places that aren’t heated such as the loft, garage or outdoors can freeze, expand and burst when temperatures drop. The damage from floods and leaks can be worth thousands so ensure exposed pipes are insulated with foam pipe insulation.
