If you do not get your plumbing and central heating systems regularly serviced, then they are 90% more likely to breakdown. A burst pipe or boiler breakdown is not ideal especially during the winter months when temperatures fall below freezing. It certainly is not a time to be coping without hot water or heating.
Many people choose to ignore a plumbing or central heating problem unless it becomes an emergency. So why is this? Many people simply do not know how to recognize a less serious problem, or what to do if they find one. The majority of us take our boilers, central heating and plumbing systems for granted, but this is a highly risky policy.
Simple steps can be taken to avoid the dreaded emergency call out to an engineer this winter, and indeed any time of the year. A regular health check of your home systems provides the answer.
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Check Your Radiators & Pipework
Regularly checking your radiators and pipework will help you avoid emergency breakdowns. Problem signs to look out for on your radiators are cold patches or a strange noise when they are switched on. These can indicate a blockage, or even a broken radiator; both can easily be fixed. A blockage is usually caused by debris or a build-up of sludge. A chemical cleaning system like Power Flushing will unblock it, and prevent it from happening again. It will even clean and descale your pipework. It should only be done by a trained engineer. Many people are able to replace broken radiators themselves, however if you are unsure then get the help of a professional.
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Get Your Boiler Serviced Every Year
Experts recommend that your boiler has a regular service each year, and to avoid a winter emergency it is better to do this towards the end of summer. Always get a Gas Safe (formerly CORGI) registered engineer to do it, that way you can be certain of safety and quality. The engineer will make sure that any faults are repaired, and that your boiler is working efficiently.
You can find out more about how to service and maintain your plumbing and central heating systems, from your local engineer or your energy supplier.
