Winterproof your heating system

Winter is creeping closer, and there is a definite chill in the air today. Although modern central heating systems are very reliable, extremely low temperatures can cause pipes to freeze and can also occasionally cause problems with condensing boilers. So what can you do to ensure your heating system copes with the winter, whatever the weather?

Away from home? Leave the heating on
If you are going away over the winter it is important that you do not switch your heating off. While turning the heating off will save money in terms of fuel bills, it will expose your home to sub-zero winter temperatures and the expense of repairing damage should pipes burst.

Keeping the heating on will help prevent water still in the pipes from freezing, as water is continuously flowing. It is recommended to leave the heating permanently on (at least 13 degrees C), especially during cold snaps. By only having the heating on a timer, one hour in the morning and evening, pipes can still freeze as the property is not heated through.

Service your boiler
An annual boiler service is essential to ensure your heating system/boiler is running efficiently and prevent boiler breakdowns during cold spells.

For as little as £70 our team will visit your home and service your boiler, giving you peace of mind that your boiler is fit for purpose and working efficiently.  But if you still need convincing that you should get your boiler serviced annually, here are four good reasons:

• Cut your heating costs – The expert Warmer Homes Heating and Renewables team that services your boiler will make sure that it is working as efficiently as possible.  An efficient boiler will help to cut your heating costs, giving you more money to spend on your family.
• Avoid costly repairs – A small, minor problem can often turn into a major boiler fault needing a repair or, in the worst cases, a boiler replacement.  During your annual service our expert engineer will examine your boiler and identify any faults or potential faults, helping you to ensure they are fixed before they become a problem.
• Faulty boilers can kill – Although this may sound dramatic, boilers that leak carbon monoxide can kill – fast.  If your boiler isn’t correctly installed, maintained or ventilated they can produce carbon monoxide. Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include headaches, drowsiness, nausea, breathlessness and stomach pains.  These signs are hard to spot and can be confused with tiredness or a cold, and carbon monoxide, known as the silent killer, can’t be seen or smelt.  An annual boiler service will go a long way in helping to avoid deadly faults.
• It’s the law if you are a landlord – If you own a property or properties that you rent out, you are legally obligated to get your boilers serviced and ensure each of your properties has an up-to-date Gas Safety Certificate.

Prevent condensing boilers freezing and breaking down
If you have a condensing type central heating boiler take steps to prevent it breaking down in cold weather. In cold weather, the external condensate pipe that takes waste water from the back of the condensing boiler can freeze solid, shutting down the system. Lagging this pipe with water-proof and weather-proof insulation can prevent freezing.