As winter approaches, ensuring your rental property is equipped to handle the cold weather becomes paramount. One of the most critical aspects of winter preparation is prioritizing your heating system. A warm and comfortable living space is not only essential for your well-being but also helps protect the property from potential cold-related issues.
Routine Boiler Checks & Maintenance
Your boiler is safety checked and serviced each year by our Gas Safe engineer. But that does not guarantee that the full system – hot water and heating – will work perfectly after a long layoff over the summer months. It is crucial that you take the time to check the full system now before the cold weather sets in. Doing these checks and small adjustments now will keep you warm and cosy through the winter ahead.
Also, doing the checks NOW will give time for our heating engineer to carry out any repairs if required. If it is freezing cold and ice outside and you put the heating on for the first time – it is too late as the engineers will be crazy busy.
Running The Heating System
Even if your boiler is providing hot water, it’s important to run the heating system as well. This helps identify any issues with the radiators or heating distribution. Sometimes, heating systems are zoned, and individual radiators may require attention.
Check All Radiators
To ensure every room stays warm during winter, check that all radiators are heating properly. Turn on the heating, and after some time, carefully touch each radiator. If any part of a radiator feels cooler than the rest, it may need bleeding.
Bleeding Radiators
Bleeding a radiator is a simple process to remove trapped air, allowing hot water to flow freely and heat the room effectively.
Here’s how to do it:
- Turn off the heating system to avoid scalding.
- Locate the radiator bleed valve, typically at the top of the radiator on one side.
- Place a towel or container under the valve to catch any water.
- Using a radiator key or a flat-blade screwdriver, slowly turn the valve anti-clockwise until you hear a hissing sound. This is the air escaping.
- Once water starts to flow steadily without air, tighten the valve.
- Check all radiators in the property, as air can accumulate in any of them.
Condensate Boiler – Extra Checks
If your rental property has a new condensing boiler, there’s an additional check to perform. These boilers have a condensate drainpipe that removes moisture created during heating. During freezing temperatures, this pipe can become blocked, causing the boiler to shut down.
- Locate the condensate drainpipe, which is usually a plastic pipe exiting the property. It might be near the boiler or outside.
- Ensure the pipe is clear of any obstructions or ice build up. If necessary, gently pour warm (not boiling) water over the pipe to melt any ice.
- Regularly inspect and clear the pipe during cold spells to prevent disruptions in heating.
Stay Warm and Cosy This Winter
Taking these steps to prioritize your heating system ensures that you’ll stay warm and comfortable throughout the winter months. Additionally, it helps maintain the property’s condition and prevents potential issues that can arise from cold-related damage.
Just Lets – Your Property Management Partner
At Just Lets, we value the comfort and well-being of both tenants and landlords. If you have any questions or need assistance in preparing your rental property for winter, especially with your heating system, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to ensure a seamless and enjoyable rental experience. Stay warm and cosy this winter!
