Spending time on the important workings of a property, such as the plumbing or electrics, during the spring and summer months will help safeguard against any nasty maintenance surprises once the cold weather and rain return.
1 Get your boiler serviced Don’t wait for the winter to set in before you have your boiler serviced. It’s easier to find an engineer during the spring/summer months and will cost less.
2 Consider upgrading your boiler Some of today’s energy efficient boilers can provide up to 30 per cent savings on gas bills. Upgrading your systems will not only create cost savings, but will also help to avoid unnecessary call outs. If you do upgrade, be sure to ask for the relevant installation certificate and try to use a company that will provide extended warranties.
3 Avoid potential flooding Take this opportunity to ensure you know where your stop cock is, and also where your main isolation valves are. This is particularly important if you have any long summer holidays booked.
4 Inspect your roof Look out for missing tiles and guttering. If you have a chimney, check the flashings are intact.
5 Clear off debris Use the spring and summer months to remove any pebbles, moss or vegetation build up from your roof and guttering.
6 Get an electric check A qualified electrician will make sure your home’s electrics are safe and in a satisfactory condition.
7 Use energy saving light bulbs Not only are they good for the environment but they cut your electricity bills too.
8 Check pipe insulation Inspect these for frost protection and heat loss. Pipes not properly insulated will either lose heat too quickly, or could be liable to burst in the colder months.
9 Cut the power Ensure you know the location of your consumer unit (fuse box) and how to isolate it in an emergency.
10 Keep drains clean Spring clean your drains from the inside and do an external check to ensure there aren’t any blockages.
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