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How to take care of your boiler system this winter

It’s easy to simply forget about your boiler during the times when you use it the least.

But it’s best to be prepared and not get caught out waiting to see if there are any problems when you need it the most.

Here are a few handy tips from Woolfoot Heating to make sure you’re ready for the cold months ahead, when we’re all likely to be spending even more time than usual at home…

1: Regularly test everything

There’s nothing worse than the water running cold in the middle of a morning shower and you discover that your boiler has packed up. Have a brief check-up as soon as possible to avoid any nasty surprises when you really do need piping hot water and winter heating. Make sure the radiators come on as planned, the thermostat is functioning and the timer is operating normally.

2: Get your boiler serviced

Booking a regular boiler service cuts down the risk of potential leaks, breakdowns or repairs.

Many newer systems require an annual boiler service to keep the warranty valid.

Standalone boiler service costs can sometimes be quite high, but many heating companies offer care plans which offer annual serving, repair and maintenance for a monthly fee.

A boiler service as part of a care plan will keep your boiler in good working condition, extend its life and keep you safe.

3: Book a boiler power flush and a central heating power flush

A boiler power flush is a cleansing process that removes the dirt, rust, sludge and debris that gradually accumulates in your system.

These substances, if left in place, could potentially cause blockages, corrosion and reduce the efficiency of your boiler.

It could even eventually lead to a breakdown. If you sign up to an annual service plan, your heating system should only need a central heating power flush every five years, but this can vary according to your boiler type and system.

You should always ensure that a boiler power flush is carried out by a professional heating engineer, and it takes several hours to complete.

4: Bleed your radiators

To test if your radiators need bleeding, click your central heating on and turn the thermostat up high. If they’re hot to touch at the bottom but still cold towards the top, it means they need bleeding to release the pockets of air trapped in the system.

This simple process will make your home warmer more quickly and save you money on winter heating bills.

5. Check your boiler system pipes

In exceptionally cold weather it’s quite common for your pipes to freeze up.

This can damage the pipes themselves and can cause a boiler system breakdown.

This can be avoided by insulating your pipes properly, which will keep the water flowing freely when temperatures start to drop and keep your winter heating working.

You can get pipe lagging materials from all good DIY shops, and it can be installed in minutes.

 

Are you looking for professional and reliable winter boiler service in Leeds? 

Woolfoot Heating can service, maintain and repair all types of boiler, no matter how old. With our industry knowledge and expertise, we can diagnose problems and offer you a quick boiler fix. 

We also offer Yorkshire’s longest boiler guarantee. Find out more here.

Call Woolfoot Heating on 0330 113 8555 or email enquiries@woolfootheating.co.uk.

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