Top Tips for Looking After Your Home in Cold Weather
It's that time of year and the cold weather is here. Some are happy to bundle up and go outside while others are kicking on the radiator or sitting by the fire. It doesn't matter who you are, the weather this time of year can sometimes cause problems for you home. So don't be caught out in the cold and use our tips below!
Heating
The best way to ensure pipes don’t freeze in very cold weather is to use them! Turn your heating on for at least an hour a day. If you’re away, it can be set to a low setting so it doesn’t cost too much. As a bonus, it means it won’t be TOO cold when you come back!
Sometimes radiators can get a bit blocked and might need to ‘bleed’. This means letting the water out to release the blockage. There are lots of videos online for how to do this properly but do ask your Landlord or Property Manager if you’re not sure.
If you can feel a draught coming in, draught excluders are a cheap and effective way of sorting this out quickly. You can find different types online.
Ventilation
Condensation occurs when warm air hits a cold surface, so winter is peak condensation time! Properties should be well-ventilated to avoid too much of this so where possible, give your home some air!! Open a window to let some fresh air in and always make sure you use your extractor fan when showering and cooking.
Mouse in the house!
It is normal when the weather gets colder to see the odd mouse inside as they like to come inside for winter however, we don’t want to encourage them so make sure you don’t leave food out to attract them.
Watch those leaves!
It is a good idea to clear your gutters of leaves, if you can reach them safely. Neglecting to do this can cause blockages and hamper rainwater drainage which can lead to more serious defects at the property.
If you have a garden, particularly a lawned garden, keep it clear of leaves as well as a build-up of wet leaves can ruin the grass underneath.
Fire safety
Christmas lights are beautiful to have in your home but please make sure that the ones you have up are of good quality and safe to have on in your property and that they are never left on when the house is empty. They can be a fire hazard otherwise.
Your smoke alarms were tested on the start date of your tenancy, but these should be tested by you every so often and if the battery needs to be replaced, this is your responsibility as tenant.
Security never sleeps
Every time you leave your home, you should ensure that the property is locked up properly and securely, particularly if you are leaving it for an extended period. Installing timer plugs for some of your lights is a great idea to make it seem like you’re still in the property.
Remember that if you will be away for more than 2 weeks at once, you must alert your Landlord as this could affect their property insurance.