Autumn is really and truly here and, with temperatures plummeting across the UK, it's well past time to check your boiler is in good working order and that your heating system's functioning well. We asked Hometree, the online boiler installation specialists, how you can roll into the cold season without any heating hiccups.
Don't know anything about boilers? Of course you don't (heating engineers excepted), and neither should you. Checking a boiler is something best left to a professional (and never to you after a quick internet search).
They should also have a look at all of your radiators to make sure there are no blockages or leaks. If you are renting, check with your landlord, as some may have an agreement with the property's energy provider that includes a free boiler check.
This is something you can and should do. Think your boiler sounds weird? Don't ignore the early warning signs of a boiler that's running inefficiently or incorrectly: gurgling noises or excessive noise from your boiler could indicate trapped air, or a loss of pressure. If the pilot light is not coming on, you may be experiencing a loss of gas supply. If you notice any of these signs, get your boiler seen to at once.
Again, a job you can do yourself: bleeding radiators at the start of every cold season really pays off (if you notice that your radiators are hot at the bottom and cold on top, you need to bleed them; if your radiator heat is patchy, with cold spots in random places, then you're most likely dealing with sludge, and will need to get a professional involved). Sorting out your radiators will ensure your boiler isn't under too much strain, and will run efficiently.
Keep hearing a dripping sound? Don't ignore it – at early stages, having a leak fixed (again, by a pro) may require nothing more than a replacement seal. Let it get worse, and you may have a heating disaster on your hands.
Nothing disrupts a home during the winter like a burst pipe – but you can easily prevent this problem by making sure your pipes are insulated and connected to an anti-frost/frost-detecting device. If you are going away for more than a few days in winter, make sure you set your thermostat to heat the house for at least an hour each day. Or invest in a smart thermostat that you can control remotely.
Get small space home decor ideas, celeb inspiration, DIY tips and more, straight to your inbox!
Anna is a professional writer with many years of experience. She has a passion for contemporary home decor and gardening. She covers a range of topics, from practical advice to interior and garden design.
Fit solar panels for the home and generate electricity, or heat water. Consider the pros, cons and costs.
By Sarah Warwick Published
It's vital to get your kitchen heating right from the start. From underfloor heating, to radiators, plinth heaters, range cookers and radiators – our guide to heating a kitchen covers all the solutions
By Lucy Searle Last updated