Property Maintenance Tips for the Autumn / Winter Period
Test The Heating System
It is always a good idea to test your heating system just before autumn sets in, even better to start testing and using it towards the end of the summer months.
It can benefit your boiler to turn the heating on even once a month throughout the summer, as it keeps your boiler parts in operation, highlighting any potential issues for you to deal with and fix before the cold really sets in.
Having your boiler serviced before you're due to turn your heating back on is always a good idea, as all serviceable parts and settings can be checked professionally with action taken against any potential areas of concern.
Bleeding your radiators is also a good idea to avoid excess air being trapped in them causing blockages, compromising their performance over the winter months, which can cause heat not to rise. Best to put the radiators on full, before turning them down to the required temperature for autumn once they've been checked. Generally, if they only heat up at the bottom and not the top, that is a good indication that they require bleeding. Cold spots could also be a sign of sludge in the system, so a powerflush is typically recommended. This is also a good time to check for any radiator leaks and damaged valves, before the radiators come into more regular use.
Check Outdoor Lights
As the days get shorter, with long nights around the corner, it is prudent to make sure the external lighting on your premises is functioning well, and to replace any bulbs that may have blown over the summer.
Clear your Gutters & Inspect your Roof
At the end of autumn when the majority of leaves have fallen, and before the cold sets in, it is good practice to clear gutters to avoid overflowing of water in your gutters when heavy rains arrive, causing brickwork to potentially become soaked, leading to damp inside your building.
Whilst this is getting done, it is also good practice to check for any potential cracks or leaks in your gutters and down pipes, enabling you to spot any potential problems early, before things get too serious.
Whilst inspecting it is also worth having the roof inspected for any broken or fallen tiles, weathered flashing or cracked caulking, whilst the weather is fairer prior to the arrival of the winter months.
Seal the Cracks
Have a look around the exterior of your property for any cracks, especially where pipes or cables meet brickwork. These can be much easier to fill in and rectify before the winter weather kicks in.
