GET YOUR HOME READY FOR WINTER
Updated: Sep 15
Get Your Home Ready for Winter: Essential Boiler & Heating Tips from JRQ Plumbing & Heating
As the colder months approach, it's the perfect time to ensure your heating system is ready for winter. Every year, thousands of homeowners face unexpected boiler breakdowns during the coldest weather, often when heating engineers are at their busiest.
At JRQ Plumbing & Heating, we help homeowners and landlords across Salisbury, Andover, Basingstoke, Winchester, Ringwood, Swindon, Ascot, Twickenham, and surrounding areas keep their homes warm, safe, and energy-efficient throughout winter.
Book Your Annual Boiler Service Before Winter
One of the most important things you can do is arrange an annual boiler service. A professional service ensures your boiler operates safely, efficiently, and reliably before temperatures drop.
A boiler service can:
Improve energy efficiency
Reduce heating bills
Identify faults before they become expensive repairs
Help prevent unexpected breakdowns
Extend the life of your boiler
Keep your manufacturer’s warranty valid
Ensure your boiler is operating safely
Whether you have a Vaillant, Worcester Bosch, Ideal, Keston, Viessmann, Baxi, Glow-worm, Alpha, Main, or Potterton boiler, our Gas Safe registered engineers can service all major manufacturers.
Bleed Your Radiators
If your radiators have cold spots at the top or aren’t heating evenly, trapped air could be reducing your heating efficiency. Bleeding your radiators allows hot water to circulate properly, helping your home heat up faster while reducing energy consumption.
Check Your Boiler Pressure
Low boiler pressure can stop your central heating from working correctly. Most boilers should operate between 1.0 and 1.5 bar when cold. If you’re unsure, our engineers are happy to check and advise during your boiler service.
Protect Your Heating System
Adding a quality magnetic system filter and ensuring your heating system contains the correct inhibitor helps protect your boiler from sludge and corrosion. For older heating systems, a professional powerflush can dramatically improve radiator performance and boiler efficiency.
Test Your Thermostat
Before winter arrives, check that your room thermostat and thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs) are working correctly. Upgrading to a smart thermostat, such as Hive or Nest, can improve comfort while helping reduce heating costs.
Don’t Forget Your Carbon Monoxide Alarm
Every home with a gas boiler should have a working carbon monoxide alarm installed in accordance with current regulations. Test your alarm regularly and replace batteries where required.
Landlord Gas Safety Certificates
If you own rental property, remember that your annual Landlord Gas Safety Certificate (CP12) must be renewed every 12 months. JRQ Plumbing & Heating offers flexible appointments to help landlords stay compliant.
Signs Your Boiler Needs Attention
Contact a qualified heating engineer if you notice:
Strange banging or whistling noises
Boiler losing pressure
Leaks
Pilot light issues
Radiators not heating properly
Higher than normal energy bills
Boiler repeatedly locking out
Early diagnosis can often prevent a complete breakdown.
Why Choose JRQ Plumbing & Heating?
At JRQ Plumbing & Heating, we provide professional boiler servicing, boiler repairs, boiler installations, central heating repairs, landlord gas safety certificates, power flushing, plumbing services, and emergency heating repairs. Our experienced Gas Safe registered engineers cover:
Salisbury
Andover
Basingstoke
Winchester
Ringwood
Swindon
Ascot
Twickenham
Farnborough
Surrounding areas
We pride ourselves on delivering reliable workmanship, honest advice, and outstanding customer service.
Book Your Boiler Service Today
Don’t wait until your heating stops working on the coldest day of the year. Book your boiler service now and enjoy complete peace of mind knowing your heating system is ready for winter.
Contact JRQ Plumbing & Heating today to arrange your annual boiler service, heating inspection, or boiler repair. Our friendly team is ready to help keep your home warm, safe, and energy-efficient all winter long.
Additional Tips for Winter Readiness
Insulate Your Home
Proper insulation is crucial for maintaining warmth. Check your loft, walls, and floors for adequate insulation. This helps keep the heat in and reduces your energy bills.
Use Curtains Wisely
Close your curtains at night to keep the warmth in. During the day, open them to let in sunlight. This simple trick can help maintain a comfortable temperature in your home.
Consider a Smart Heating System
Investing in a smart heating system can provide you with more control over your home's temperature. You can adjust settings remotely, ensuring your home is warm when you arrive.
Regular Maintenance is Key
Regular maintenance of your heating system is essential. Schedule checks at least once a year to ensure everything is functioning correctly. This can prevent costly repairs down the line.
Stay Informed
Keep an eye on the weather forecast. Knowing when a cold snap is coming can help you prepare your heating system in advance.
By following these tips, you can ensure your home is ready for winter. Remember, a little preparation goes a long way in keeping your home warm and comfortable during the colder months. If you have any questions or need assistance, don't hesitate to reach out to us at JRQ Plumbing & Heating. We're here to help!
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