It's that time of year when the weather starts to heat up, and we all begin to think about our summer holiday plans. But before you jet off, there are a few things you should check around your home to make sure everything is in good working order. Radiators and heating systems work best when kept clean and clear of debris. There's a greater chance of debris building up in these components in the summer due to all the driving and outdoor activities we do. Plus, if there's an issue with your radiator or heating system now, it will only worsen as the weather gets colder. So, it's best to take care of any towel radiator or heating issues in the summertime. This article will show you a few radiator and heating checks to make in the summer.
Radiator and Heating Checks to Make in The Summer
1. Check your radiator valves are working properly
Over time, radiator valves can become stiff and difficult to turn. This can make it hard to control the temperature in your home, so it's essential to check that they are working correctly. To do this, turn each valve entirely on and then back off again. If they are stiff or get stuck, you may need to replace them.
2. Bleed your radiators
If your radiators have been turned off for a while, they may need to be bled before turning them back on. It will remove any air built up in the system and help improve the efficiency of your heating. To bleed a radiator, turn on the valve at the top and wait for the water to start flowing out. Once it is running clear, turn the valve back off again.
3. Check your boiler pressure.
If your boiler pressure is too low, your heating may not work correctly. You can check the pressure using a pressure gauge (most boilers have one built-in) and topping up the pressure if necessary.
4. Descale your boiler
If your boiler has not been used for a while, it may need to be descaled. This is because water can leave behind calcium and magnesium deposits, which can reduce the efficiency of your heating. To descale your boiler, you will need to carefully use a descaling solution and follow the instructions.
5. Clean or replace your furnace filter
Suppose your furnace has a filter; clean or replace it regularly. A dirty filter can reduce the efficiency of your heating and cause the system to overwork itself. Remove and vacuum it or wash it with soap and water to clean the filter. If it is damaged, you will need to replace it.
Why is Summer the Best Time to Perform Radiator and Heater Maintenance?
- You're not using them as much
This means you can take your time and clean them properly without worrying about rushing or causing any disruptions to your daily routine.
- The warmer weather means any potential problems are more likely to show up
Problems with your radiators or heating system are more likely to happen when you're using them less, and the weather is warm. You can get it fixed before the cold weather hits, and you need your heating.
- You can take advantage of any sales or discounts
Many companies offer seasonal discounts on their services, so summer is a great time to take advantage of these deals.
FAQs on Radiator & Heating Checks to Make in the Summer
1 Q: What is the first thing to do with the radiator in summer?
A: Bleed your radiator by letting out the air that may have been trapped over time
2 Q: What is the best way to adjust a thermostatic radiator valve in summer?
A: Turn the TRV to the maximum and then switch off the heater so that when you switch it back on in winter, the TRV will not be stuck
3 Q: Why does my heater not work after summer?
A: Inactivity can cause the heater to break down. You can avoid it by turning on your heater for about 20 minutes at intervals of 3-4 weeks during summer.