With snow, frost and gales forecasted to hit the UK this weekend, we thought it would be the perfect time to share some tips on how to get your home prepared for winter.

1. Get your Boiler Checked - It’s that time of year when the days are getting colder and shorter. What you don’t want is to be left without heating and hot water.  So it’s the ideal time to get your boiler checked.  If you don’t already have some, you may wish to think about taking out boiler care.  With an annual service, our Boiler Care Plus product give you peace of mind that your boiler and central heating system are working correctly and means Gas Safe registered engineers are on hand to help if anything goes wrong.  This means less time in the cold and more time enjoying cosy nights in.
2. Get Insulated! - It’s a good idea to make sure the insulation in your home is in good condition especially for winter. Homes lose up to 33% of heat through the walls and another 25% through the roof. By installing cavity wall insulation, you could save £155 a year on your heating bills¹. Another thing to consider is insulating your hot water cylinder.  It’s one of the easiest ways to save energy. A lagging jacket for your water cylinder is only around £15, so it should pay for itself in months. Or if you already have one, check it’s at least 75mm thick².
3. Protect your Pipes! - Layering up in the winter is good for you and it is also good for your pipes. Commonly known as ‘lagging’ protecting your pipes with a foam layer can prevent them freezing, or even worst bursting.
4. Clear your Gutters and Drains – I know it’s one of the last things on your mind on the lead up to Christmas but clearing your gutters and drains should be a key part of your winter preparations for your home. Removing leaves and muck from your gutters and drains means that melting snow and ice can move freely through the gutter and drain correctly limiting the risk of you experiencing water damage.
5. Just in case… - If you unfortunately do experience a power cut or gas leak know the emergency numbers to call. Dial 105 for a power cut and 0800 111999 for a gas leak.

¹https://www.scottishpower.co.uk/energy-efficiency/energy-efficiency-toolkit/energy-efficiency-guides

Cavity wall insulation and loft insulation costs may vary depending on volume of material required, and supplier.  Estimated savings are based on a family of 4 sharing a 3 bedroom semi-detached home (Energy Saving Trust, April 2016).  For expert and impartial free advice on reducing your fuel bills, saving energy and making your home more comfortable visit energysavingstrust.org.uk or call: England and wales – The Energy Saving Advice Service on 0300 123 1234 (charged as a national rate call).  Scotland – Scottish Government’s Home energy hotline on 0808 808 2282 (calls are free).  Information supplied by the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy.  For further information visit the officialgov.uk.page.

² http://www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/home-insulation/insulating-tanks-pipes-and-radiators