Why Prepare Before Winter?
More boiler breakdowns occur in autumn and winter than at any other time of year. Cold weather places extra demand on systems that may have sat idle for months, and a breakdown during the coldest period is both miserable and expensive. A simple pre-winter checklist takes less than an hour and could save you a winter of problems.
Checklist: 10 Things to Do Before Winter
1. Book Your Annual Boiler Service
If your boiler hasn't been serviced in the last 12 months, book it now — before engineers get booked up in November. A service will catch developing faults and ensure your boiler is running safely and efficiently.
2. Test Your Heating in September
Don't wait for the first cold snap. Turn the heating on in September to check everything fires up correctly. Identify any cold radiators or unusual noises while engineers are still available.
3. Check Your Boiler Pressure
The pressure gauge should sit between 1 and 1.5 bar. If it's lower, repressurise using the filling loop before the heating season starts.
4. Bleed Your Radiators
Release any trapped air that built up over summer. This improves efficiency and ensures full heat output from every radiator.
5. Insulate Your Condensate Pipe
The plastic waste pipe from a condensing boiler can freeze in cold weather, shutting the boiler down. Wrap it in foam pipe lagging — available cheaply from any hardware store.
6. Check Your Thermostat and Controls
Replace batteries in wireless thermostats. Review your programming and set it up for the heating season. Consider upgrading to a smart thermostat.
7. Check Radiator Valves Are Working
Ensure TRVs on all radiators turn freely and aren't stuck — common after a summer without use.
8. Clear Around the Boiler
Ensure adequate ventilation around the boiler and that the flue outlet is unobstructed.
9. Stock Up on Essentials
Keep a boiler manual handy, note your Gas Safe engineer's number, and consider a spare radiator bleed key.
10. Review Your Cover
Check whether you have any boiler cover or home emergency cover in place.
For any winter heating checks or concerns, Halo Heating is here to help. Call 01483 676108.
Need Professional Help?
Our Gas Safe registered engineers cover Surrey and surrounding areas. Call for a free quote or to book an engineer.
Call 01483 676108