Tips to winter proof your home

It's important to winter-proof your home

Winter generally tests out a home like never before. There’s a fear of burst pipes, heating being lost and much more. So here’s a few tips on how to protect your home this winter:

1. Chimneys – Ensure they are swept once a year by a professional chimney sweep, ideally before you start using the fire.
2. Smoke Alarms – Check that smoke alarms are fitted and that they are all working properly.  Replace batteries as necessary.
3. Insulation – Ensure water pipes and the water tanks are lagged and insulated.
4. Heating – Keep heating on if you are going away – on a minimum of 15 degrees. It’s sensible to open the loft hatch also, this allows air to circulate and helps to prevent pipes freezing and bursting in the loft.
5. Boiler servicing – Ensure that gas and oil boilers are serviced every 12 months.
6. If the property is to be empty for an extended period it is sensible to have the heating/water system drained down by a qualified contractor.