Your heating will work better and cost less this winter if five essential tasks are done NOW
AS it starts to get a bit nippier, there’s a few simple tasks you should be doing to get the best out of your heating this winter.
Heating expert and founder of UKRadiators.com, Rob Nezard, insists there are five jobs you can do now to save stress and cash.
And if you do them in October, it could set you up perfectly as we enter the colder months.
Rob says: “Taking the time to check your heating system now can save you from costly repairs and ensure your home stays warm when you need it most.”
So if you want to get the most out of the heating in your home this winter, check out Rob’s tips below…
Check and Bleed Your Radiators
“One of the most common issues people face as the colder months begin is uneven heating,” says Rob.
“If your radiators aren’t heating up as they should, there’s a good
chance trapped air is blocking heat distribution.”
He recommends checking each radiator in your home and bleeding them if necessary.
Bleeding your radiators releases trapped air, allowing hot water to flow freely and ensuring your radiators are operating at maximum efficiency.
Rob added: “This simple step can make a huge difference in how evenly your home heats up.”
Service Your Boiler
“It’s vital to have your boiler serviced before you rely on it heavily throughout the winter,” Rob advises.
Regular boiler servicing not only ensures it’s running efficiently but can also prevent breakdowns at the worst possible times.
He added: “A well-maintained boiler is far less likely to fail when you need it most.
“Plus, servicing helps extend its lifespan and reduce energy consumption.”
Rob recommends scheduling a professional service every year to catch any issues early and keep your system in peak condition.
Install or Check Your Thermostat
Rob explains: “A good thermostat is key to heating your home efficiently.”
He suggests checking your existing thermostat or upgrading to a programmable or smart model.
“A programmable thermostat allows you to set heating schedules based on your routine, so you’re not wasting energy heating an empty house”, he added.
Smart thermostats go a step further, allowing you to control your home’s temperature remotely and automatically adjusting to your habits.
Rob continued: “With the right thermostat, you can ensure your home is warm when you need it without wasting energy.”
Seal Drafts and Insulate
Drafts are one of the biggest culprits of heat loss, according to Rob.
He said: “Before winter sets in, check around windows, doors, and other openings for drafts.
“Sealing these gaps can make a noticeable difference in how well your home retains heat.”
Simple fixes like applying weather stripping, using caulking, or installing draft excluders can stop cold air from sneaking in.
Rob added: “For a longer-term solution, consider insulating your loft or upgrading your home’s insulation to reduce heat loss through walls and ceilings.
“Proper insulation can make your home far more energy-efficient.”
Test Your Heating System Early
“Don’t wait until the first cold snap to find out if your heating system is working,” warns Rob.
He suggests running your heating system now to ensure everything is in order.
He added: “By testing your system early, you can identify any issues, whether it’s a noisy radiator or a malfunctioning boiler, and get them fixed before the cold weather really kicks in.
“This means you’re less likely to face the stress and cost of emergency repairs when temperatures drop and you really need it to be working.”