Get Winter Ready

Winter can bring colder temperatures, frozen pipes and increased heating costs. Taking a few simple steps now can help keep your home warm, safe and comfortable throughout the winter months.

Keep Your Home Warm

Before winter arrives, make sure your central heating system is working correctly. Run it for at least 30 minutes to ensure that your radiators heat up as they should. This will help identify and resolve any issues before winter sets in.

·         Keep your heating on at a steady temperature during cold weather.

·         If you are going away, leave your heating on low to help prevent pipes from freezing.

·         Keep radiators clear of furniture and curtains so heat can circulate around your home.

·         Close curtains at night to help keep warmth in.

Protect Your Pipes

·         Know where your stopcock is located and how to turn off the water supply.

·         If freezing temperatures are forecast, keep your home heated where possible.

·         Open cupboard doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate around pipework.

·         If you think a pipe has frozen, contact us before attempting any repairs yourself.

Reduce Condensation and Mould

·         Open windows for a few minutes each day to allow fresh air into your home.

·         Use extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms where available.

·         Keep lids on pans when cooking.

·         Wipe moisture from windows and other surfaces.

·         Avoid drying clothes on radiators where possible.

Stay Safe

·        Test your smoke alarms regularly.   

·        Check that your carbon monoxide alarm is working correctly.    

·        Ensure children keep away from heaters and hot surfaces.

·        Keep exits and pathways clear where possible.

·        Never use portable gas heaters indoors.

Be Prepared

·       Keep a torch available in case of a power cut.

·       Save important phone numbers in your mobile phone.

·       Make sure you know how to report an emergency repair.

·       Keep an eye on elderly or vulnerable family members and neighbours during severe weather.

·       Stay informed about the weather forecast and plan accordingly.

·       Order repeat prescriptions in advance to avoid running out.

Report Problems Quickly

Please contact Loreburn Housing as soon as possible if you experience:

·       No heating or hot water

·       Water leaks

·       Damp and mould issues

·       Unsafe conditions within your home

If you have frozen or burst pipes, contact us immediately and turn off the water supply at the stop cock. Use towels to minimize water damage.

Other tips to keep in mind:

Report any blocked or broken gutters.

Ensure your ventilation systems (kitchen and bathroom fans) are functioning properly.

Know the location of your stop cock and how to turn off the water supply if necessary.

Check for any dripping taps.

Stay safe and warm this winter!