Is your boiler ready for winter?

In the grip of winter, a failed boiler can be a big problem. Ensuring your appliance is ready for the colder months will reduce the likelihood of breakdowns happening at the time you need your heating the most.

Appropriate maintenance before and during these crucial months is essential. If you manage a rental property rather than your own home, see our companion guide The Landlord’s Winter Checklist for legal compliance and tenant guidance.

In this article, the PlumbGas Services Ltd team will cover everything you need to know about getting your boiler ready for winter, along with essential winter boiler care tips.

How to get your boiler ready for winter

Get your boiler serviced

It’s recommended that every homeowner has their boiler serviced at least once a year. The most logical choice for timing is just before the colder seasons begin to ensure it’s ready for this period of heavy use. Some boiler warranties will even request that you arrange this annual boiler servicing to uphold the conditions of your warranty.

Address issues when they come up

Even the smallest problem has the potential to become bigger, especially in the grip of winter when cold temperatures can easily exacerbate issues. That’s why it’s always important to address issues the moment they come up, rather than chancing your luck and delaying action.

Along with an annual professional service, it’s always wise to test your heating before the temperature plummets to make sure everything is working as it should, and to give you time to correct any problems.

Pipe protection

Warm water regularly running through your system will help to prevent your pipes from cracking. Some homeowners choose to put further protections in place with pipe insulation, which both guards pipes against damage in winter, but can also limit heat escape to make for a more efficient home.

You can insulate pipes yourself by using materials from hardware shops; however if you’re ever unsure, it’s always best that a professional tackles this for you.

Radiator care

After a few months of disuse over summer, your heating system might need some time to get going. Trial run your heating before the temperature dips and make sure your radiators are warming up as they should.

If they are warm at the bottom but cold at the top, it’s likely they need bleeding. If they are cold at the bottom but warm at the top, there may be a build-up of sludge that is impeding their function. In this case, a heating expert is needed.

Additionally, check that the Thermostatic Radiator Valves are turning freely as they can stick during the summer, impeding operation.

Check your boiler pressure

Incorrect boiler pressure can stop your central heating system from working as it should. In some instances, it can even prevent it from working entirely.

Check the pressure gauge to see if the pressure is too low, too high or just as it should be. If it’s wrong, consult your user manual for instructions on how to adjust boiler pressure to expected levels. Additionally, always check the boiler pressure after you’ve bled the radiators, as this action can also affect pressure.

If your pressure is still not right even after making adjustments, you will need to get an expert to check your boiler, as it may signal a deeper problem with your appliance, such as a leak.

Thermostat Controls

Check that the thermostat turns the heating on and off correctly, as some battery-operated ones may have lost power over the summer months. As a related tip, if you are leaving your house during the winter, don’t turn the heating off completely as this can increase the risk of pipes freezing and bursting. Instead, set a low heat setting of around 10 – 12℃ during the time you’re away.

Boiler care plans

One of the best winter boiler tips is to arrange a boiler care plan. By paying one lump sum a month, you’ll get access to a wide range of boiler and heating services from a professional, giving you the assurance that you’ve got an expert on hand as and when you need them. This takes the hassle and organisation out of boiler maintenance, keeping your appliance healthy under the watchful eye of a professional.

Here at PlumbGas Ltd, we provide three levels of homeowner boiler care plans, ranging from a simple boiler-only option, all the way to a comprehensive boiler, central heating and plumbing service for those who want peace of mind. We have experience servicing the leading boiler brands, including Worcester Bosch, Baxi and Ideal for your total assurance.

Are you looking for rapid boiler services in Stafford? Here at PlumbGas Services Ltd, we provide a full range of boiler, central heating and plumbing services with 24-hour support for emergencies , along with boiler care plans for ongoing maintenance you can trust. Whether you need a one-off repair or a routine service, contact our team for a quote or some friendly advice today.