The typical annual energy bill for UK households this year is estimated to rise to £1,719 or a 9% increase based on National Energy Action figures.
Heating bills represent nearly half of total energy costs of homes in the UK. Hence, it is critical to winter proof dwellings in preparation for the cold season.
Preparing your abode for the chilly months ahead can avert heat loss, reduce energy consumption, make your home more comfortable, and prevent damage.
Heating Maintenance and Plumbing System Protection
While turning off the heating system can reduce your gas and electricity bills, it could be detrimental to your health especially for those with heart and lung conditions.
In addition, the absence of heating can also lead to mold and mildew as well as burst pipes if it’s freezing outside. Thus, it is important to maintain your heating and cooling system to ensure that it works properly when you need it the most. Tap the professional services of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) technicians who are trained to diagnose, repair, and maintain heating/cooling systems.
Plumbers can also check your gas and boilers systems as well as verify that there are no leaking pipes.
Technicians will clean or replace filters to improve air quality and efficiency. They will bleed radiators to remove trapped air and improve heat distribution. To help protect your plumbing system, turn off outdoor faucets and drain any remaining water to avoid freezing. Insulate exposed pipes to shelter them from freezing temperatures. Make sure that you know where the main water shut-off valve is so that you can turn it off in case of a leak.
Insulation/Sealing and Roof/Gutter Maintenance
To ensure peak performance of your heating and boiler systems, it is necessary to insulate attics and walls. Proper insulation assists in heat retention and energy consumption reduction. Seal air leaks around windows, doors, and other openings by using caulk and weather stripping materials. Exposed pipes must be protected by using heat tape or insulation materials.
Another easy way to prepare your home for winter is to clean gutters. Remove leaves and debris to prevent water damage. Check downspouts and make sure that there are no encumbrances like the buildup of leaves, dirt, and debris. If your property has lots of trees, trim tree branches that could potentially damage your roof or gutters during storms and heavy precipitation.
It’s also a good idea to inspect the roof and check for damage. A damaged roof can cause water leaks that may significantly damage your home’s interior, encourage mold growth, and trigger structural damage.
Regular inspections of the roof helps detect problems early, repair minor issues, and extend the life of your roof. Moreover, a damaged roof can lead to heat loss in the winter increasing your energy bills. There could be missing, loose, or damaged shingles that not only allow water to enter, but also pose a safety hazard during severe weather conditions like storms and heavy rains.
Preparing your home for winter makes sense so that you can enjoy a warmer and more comfortable environment. In addition, your living space is also more energy efficient.
Boiler maintenance, plumbing protection, insulation, and roof/gutter maintenance are some strategies to winterize your home.
