As we hunker down inside away from the plummeting temperatures, it’s important to make sure your home is prepared for the colder months to ensure you stay warm and comfortable whilst also keeping your home energy-efficient to protect from rising energy bills.
The drop in temperatures, heavy snowfall, and potential for ice and storms can strain your home’s systems and create costly repairs if not properly monitored. By taking proactive steps, you can minimise the risk of damage and help keep your home warm and cozy all season long.
Here are some precautionary steps you can take to protect your living space from the cold.
1. Invest in insulation
Investing in insulation is a great way to ensure you are keeping in the heat and reducing your energy bills. While the initial cost might be a few hundred pounds, it will quickly pay for itself by reducing your energy bills over time.
As much as 25% of your home’s heat can be lost through the roof. Even if your loft is already insulated, it’s worth checking that the insulation meets the recommended depth of 250mm to 270mm before the cold weather sets in. When installed correctly, loft insulation can last up to 40 years.
2. Give your radiators some TLC
Bleeding your radiators is a quick and simple way to boost their efficiency, potentially saving you money on heating. Doing this before the weather takes a turn to the frosty side assists your heating system to continue running smoothly, reducing the amount of energy it takes for them to run.
3. Service your boiler
During the colder months, your heating system will be under more strain, as we rely on them to work harder for longer to heat up our houses to combat the frosty temperatures outside. This has the potential to lead to breakdowns, inefficiency, and higher energy costs.
Regularly servicing your boiler helps catch small issues before they turn into bigger problems. It also ensures your home stays warm throughout the winter.
By aiming to schedule your boiler service while the weather is still mild, it can help you prevent the chances of being without heating or hot water when temperatures do drop.
Make sure to check your boiler’s pressure! For it to run at it’s best—it’s advised that it be set between 1 and 1.5 bar, which can be easily monitored using the gauge on your boiler.
4. Prevent frozen pipes
When water inside pipes freezes, it expands, creating pressure that can crack or burst the pipes, leading to costly water damage once temperatures rise. Signs of frozen pipes include no water flow, only a trickle from your taps, or a heating system that won’t start.
One way to prevent this is by insulating your pipes. Pipe insulation is inexpensive and available at most DIY stores. Wrapping your pipes in insulation will prevent them from freezing and losing heat during the colder months. Focus particularly on the pipes that carry hot water from your boiler or cylinder to the taps, as these are more prone to freezing.
Do you know where your stopcock is? In case of frozen pipes, it’s essential to locate your stopcock so you can turn off the water supply and prevent further damage. If you suspect your pipes are frozen, try to locate the affected pipe by looking for condensation or water pools around it. You can help the thawing process by applying warm towels or a hot water bottle, and keeping the taps open to let the water flow once it starts to thaw.
5. Draught-proof your doors and windows
Gaps and cracks around doors, windows, and walls can let in cold air, making your home uncomfortable and causing your heating system to work overtime. Even with proper insulation in your loft and efficient heating, heat loss through these gaps can still be a significant issue.
Simple draught-proofing measures, such as using draught excluders for doors and applying caulk or DIY window insulation kits to seal gaps around windows, can make a big difference in keeping your home warm and reducing your energy bills.
6. Clear your gutters
Although clearing gutters may not be the most enjoyable task, it’s an important one to tackle while the weather is still mild. Removing debris, such as leaves and twigs, helps ensure that water flows freely through your gutters and downspouts. Proper drainage prevents issues like damp patches and leaks from forming later on.
7. Manage condensation
Cold temperatures inside your home can lead to excess condensation, often noticeable as droplets on your windows in the morning. If left unchecked, this moisture can lead to dampness or mould. To reduce condensation, ensure your heating is on and use ventilation strategies, such as opening windows for five minutes each day. Even in winter, this helps reduce humidity and keeps your home dry.
By implementing these straightforward steps, you’ll be better prepared for the cold months ahead, ensuring your home stays warm, comfortable, and energy-efficient all winter long.