Most of us have our vehicles serviced or checked once a year to make sure they are still safe and in good condition. We change the oil, check the brakes, and test the tire pressure. Many of us also give ourselves a bit of a health check once a year, usually in the winter to make sure we’ve had our seasonal vaccinations and that we’re doing everything that we can to reduce the risk of winter bugs. Unfortunately, we don’t always give our homes the same attention, which can mean that we’re wasting energy, losing heat, and throwing money away. Here are some of the things that you should do for your home for winter.
Check the Boiler
There’s nothing worse than turning your heating on, on the first cold day of the year to find that your boiler is broken. Repair men are often booked up during the winter, and it can be hard to get it fixed quickly. Check your boiler, and get it serviced before the temperature drops to make sure it’s working before you need it.
Upgrade Your Thermostat
A smart thermostat like a Sensi wifi thermostat can give you much greater control of your heating systems. You can set timers, make sure the heating goes off when you leave the house, control it from your smartphone, and get accurate readings, making it easier to track usage. If you’ve still got an old-fashioned thermostat, an upgrade can be a great way to save money and keep your home warm.
Set Your Schedule
Whether you have a smart thermostat or something more old-fashioned, spend a little time checking your schedule and making chances so that it meets your needs.
Test the Radiators
If you have radiators and they haven’t been used for a while, some of them may need bleeding. Turn the heating on and go round and feel them all making sure they are working well.
Feel for Drafts
You should also spend some time inspecting window and door seals to make sure you aren’t letting in a draft. On a cooler day, walk around your home and run your hands around the windows to check for a rush of cold air.
Invest in a Roof Inspection
In inclement weather, it’s easy for our roofs to become damaged, which can lead to expensive repairs and even leaks. Get a roof inspection as soon as you can, to make sure it’s in good condition before the weather turns.
Have Gutters Cleaned
In fall when the leaves are falling, our gutters can become clogged with leaves and debris. This can mean that they can’t drain rainwater efficiently, leading to cold water running down the side of your home, getting trapped in gaps, freezing, expanding, and leading to costly damage. Get someone to clean your gutters to avoid these issues.
A simple winter health check can keep your home warm and efficient, helping your finances, your health, and even the planet. So, make sure you take some time to give your home a winter health check before the temperature really drops.
