Ways You Can Prepare Your House for Winter

Once Autumn time hits, it seems that the memories of the hot summer days seem a lifetime ago; the days are becoming shorter, and the temperature is certainly dropping. It is important to begin preparing your house around September/ October time, as this makes sure you are ready for the chances of extreme weather such as snow and cold frost.

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Your Heating

The first thing you should check is your Boiler, as most breakdowns happen during the summertime due to lack of use, so make sure to turn it on occasionally to warm it up a bit. If you are in need of a new boiler, then you might want to get in touch with a Boiler Installation Gloucestershire based company such as https://redbridgeandsons.co.uk/heating-systems-gloucestershire/boiler-installation-gloucester/, or a boiler installation company near you to make sure you have your heating for the winter months.

Your Chimney

If you have a chimney and an open fireplace, you will need to make sure it’s clean ready for the winter months; this is to unblock any soot blockages up there; if not cleaned out properly, it could be a lot less effective when you need it the most. Make sure your fireplace is clear of soot and ash, as doing this will produce a better fire.

The Beds

When preparing yourself for the winter, you also need to remember bedding; wash the thicker duvets, and any blankets you may need. If you have electric blankets, put them on your bed ready for the winter months as they will keep you nice and toasty.

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House Exterior and interior

You also need to consider the outside of your house and your garden; clear up any leaves or dirt from the drain, and keep checking for frozen pipes, as this could cause drain blockages or burst pipes. Make sure you know where your ‘stop cock’ is so you can turn off the water mains if needs be. To prevent frozen pipes make sure to insulate them, and keep a consistent heat in your home during the day and night time. Leave interior doors open at all times to allow the heat to flow properly around the house to prevent frozen pipes.

Prepare for Power Cuts and Extreme Weathers 

If extreme weather occurs, these could cause power cuts to houses, and this could be a big problem as there will be no heating or hot water. In power cuts, lighting will also be shut off too, so be sure to have a torch and plenty of candles handy. If you know there will be heavy snow, you will need to prepare for the worst-case scenario – buy extra non-perishable food in case you aren’t able to leave your house. If you have an open fire place, make sure to buy plenty of kindling wood, this will keep you warm if your electricity cuts out.