Summer maintenance start here - Central Heating Top Tips
Do you need to turn the heating off this summer?
As the warmer months approach, you may switch off your central heating without a second thought. While it’s great to save on your energy bills, completely neglecting your heating system over the summer can lead to problems when you need it again in the autumn. To keep your system in the best working condition, here’s our top 10 tips on what you should do during the summer months.
1. Run your heating occasionally
It might sound counterproductive, but turning your heating on for a short period once a month can prevent components from seizing up. When left inactive for months, parts like the pump and motorised valves can become stiff or stuck, leading to potential breakdowns when the colder weather returns.
2. Check and bleed your radiators
Even though you’re not using your heating much, summer is the perfect time to check for cold spots and bleed your radiators if necessary. This helps remove trapped air, ensuring your system runs efficiently when it’s needed again. If you’re not sure how, watch our video here: How to Bleed a radiator in 8 easy steps | Baxi guides
3. Book a boiler service
Summer is the ideal time to schedule your annual boiler service. Heating engineers are often less busy, so you’ll have an easier time securing an appointment. Servicing your boiler ensures it’s working safely and efficiently, reducing the risk of unexpected breakdowns when you switch it back on.
4. Inspect and clean your magnetic filter
If your system has a magnetic filter, summer is a great time to have it cleaned. This filter helps capture sludge and debris that can build up in your system, reducing the risk of blockages and improving efficiency. Your heating engineer can clean it during your annual service.
5. Check and top up inhibitor levels
The annual service is also a good time for your heating engineer to check and top up the chemical inhibitor levels that prevent corrosion and sludge buildup. Over time, the concentration can diminish, so it’s a good idea for them to test the water quality and top up the inhibitor if needed. This will help protect your boiler, radiators, and pipes from internal damage.
6. Consider a system flush if needed
If you’ve noticed ongoing issues like noisy pipes, cold spots on radiators, or slow heating, tell your heating engineer during your annual service. Summer is a great time to have your system power-flushed to remove built-up sludge and debris, improving efficiency and extending the life of your heating system.
7. Check your water pressure
Your boiler’s water pressure can drop over time, which can cause heating inefficiencies. Check the pressure gauge on your boiler and top it up if needed, following the manufacturer’s instructions. If you’re unsure, your heating engineer can help during the service or watch our handy video here:
8. Ensure your thermostat is working correctly
A faulty thermostat can lead to inefficient heating when the colder months return. Test your thermostat during the summer to ensure it responds correctly to temperature changes. If it’s outdated, consider upgrading to a smart thermostat to improve efficiency and control.
9. Check your carbon monoxide alarm
Even when your heating is off, it’s essential to ensure your carbon monoxide alarm is functioning. Test it regularly and replace batteries if needed. If you don’t already have one, installing a carbon monoxide alarm is a crucial safety measure for any home with a gas appliance.
10. Insulate your pipes
While summer might not seem like the time to think about insulation, adding pipe lagging now can prevent heat loss in winter. This simple step helps maintain efficiency and reduces energy bills when the heating season starts again.
And finally…
Taking care of your heating system during the summer ensures it’s in peak condition for when you need it most. A ongoing maintenance plan is an option for those looking for piece of mind.
We have a selection of plans available, search for the options here.
A little ongoing maintenance now can help prevent costly repairs, improve efficiency, and give you peace of mind that your home will be warm and comfortable when the cold weather returns. So, before you completely forget about your heating system, take a few simple steps to keep it in great shape all year round!
Maintenance and Support Plans
Whether in or out of warranty, we have a range of monthly plans that allow you to spread the cost, and include annual servicing and maintenance for your boiler and central heating.