Are You Prepared for Winter with Your Boiler? Essential Pre-Season Checks
Winter is coming and the last thing you want to happen is for your boiler to pack in on New Years day. A little bit of preparation now can keep you from shivering under blankets while waiting for an emergency repair. Here are the basic checks to prepare your boiler for a long season warming you up:
Book Your Annual Service
Now is a good time to get your boiler serviced if you haven’t in the last 12 months. A gas boiler service will look over all the important parts, spot any problems before they grow into costly repairs and make sure your gas safety registered. Also, a large number of boiler warranties stipulate that the item must be serviced on an annual basis to ensure they remain valid. For Boiler Repair Gloucester, visit hprservicesltd.com/gloucester-boilers/boiler-repair-gloucester
Check Your Boiler Pressure
This is often a simple fix. Inspect your gauge. You might have to repressurise your system. For specific instructions refer back to your own boiler which in most cases will have a manual on what may need tightening although it should all be quite straightforward and simple (if not call someone).
Turn on your heating in early autumn: make sure all the radiators are getting warm. If any rooms are cold or there’s a variation between the radiator and room temperatures (i. e., cool spots in radiators), you may need to bleed your system, since air trapped inside can block water here .
Listen for Unusual Noises
When you test the heating, listen closely. Banging, whistling or gurgling noises are not normal as they can mean there is air in the system. Low pressure and limescale build ups are also common culprits of these noises being heard too often on a regular basis These issues will not go away on their own and often they just get worse.
Inspect for Leaks
Look for water leaks or damp patches near your boiler, pipes and radiators. What might look like a minor drip can be evidence of seals going bad or corrosion waiting to rear its ugly face when winter needs force your heating system into high gear.
Check Your Thermostat
Ensure that your thermostat is functioning and placed remote from draughts or heat, which can trigger imprecise readings. You may also want to upgrade a programmable thermostat with something like the Nest, which will give you more control over your heating and cooling bills.
Clear the Area
Make sure your boiler is not obstructed or any vents are covered. Proper functioning requires adequate air flow.
Know Your Engineer’s Number
And finally, save the contact details of your registered Gas Safe engineer on your phone. If anything does go wrong in the middle of winter, you’re going to need fast and dependable help.
