A lot of winter breakdowns can be avoided with a bit of preparation. Here are the checks we’d do on our own homes.
1. Protect pipes from freezing
Lag any exposed pipework, especially in lofts and garages. Keep the heating on low if you’re away, and make sure you know where your stop tap is and that it turns.
2. Look after outside taps
Turn off the isolation valve, drain the tap and fit an insulated cover. It’s a two-minute job that prevents burst pipes.
3. Check the boiler
Pressure should usually sit around 1 to 1.5 bar when cold. Listen for unusual noises. If it hasn’t been serviced this year, get it done before the cold sets in.
4. Bleed and check radiators
Bleed any with air in them. Radiators that stay cold at the bottom usually mean sludge, and the system may need a power flush.
5. Stop the condensate freezing
A frozen condensate pipe shuts the boiler down straight away. Insulate the outside section, upsize it where possible, or reroute it inside.
6. Check the loft tank
If you have one, make sure the lid fits, the insulation is intact and the pipes feeding it are lagged.
See boiler servicing, power flushing and plumbing repairs.