6 minute read
Winter-Proof Your Home: Expert Tips from DDWilson Plumbing & Heating to Stay Warm & Save Money
As the cold winter months approach, ensuring that your home’s plumbing and heating systems are in top condition is essential. With energy prices rising in the UK, even the most minor issue can lead to costly breakdowns and increased heating bills. At DDWilson Plumbing & Heating, we understand the importance of keeping your home warm, efficient, and problem-free throughout the winter. That’s why we’ve put together expert tips and services to help you winter-proof your house. From comprehensive boiler servicing to smart thermostats, we offer everything you need to ensure your heating system runs smoothly, efficiently, and reliably, no matter how cold it gets outside.
Keep Your Boiler Running Efficiently
Your boiler is the heart of your heating system. With increased demand in winter, the strain on your boiler grows, making regular maintenance critical to avoiding breakdowns when you need warmth the most.
Why Boiler Maintenance Matters
A well-maintained boiler is not only more reliable but also more energy-efficient. According to The Energy Saving Trust, regular servicing can reduce energy consumption by up to 15%—a considerable saving when the average UK household spends around £1,200 a year on heating. A regularly serviced boiler operates more smoothly, reducing the risk of costly repairs.
At DD Wilson, our Gas Safe registered engineers conduct comprehensive boiler servicing, checking everything from pressure levels to ventilation to ensure your system runs safely and efficiently.
The Soaring Cost of Energy in the UK
Energy prices in the UK have surged by nearly 50% over the past year, with the average household spending around £900 to £1,200 per year just on heating. An older, inefficient boiler is a significant contributor to those high costs.
Did You Know?
A boiler over ten years old operates at only 60% to 70% efficiency, meaning a large portion of your energy bill is wasted on lost heat. On the other hand, new boilers operate at over 90% efficiency, saving you hundreds of pounds annually on your energy bills.
Insulate Your Pipes and Prevent Freezing
Frozen pipes are one of the most common winter plumbing issues. When pipes freeze, the water inside expands, leading to burst pipes, flooding, and costly repairs. Insulating your pipes can prevent these problems. DD Wilson offers expert pipe insulation services using high-quality materials to protect your pipes from freezing temperatures. We ensure all pipes, especially those in unheated areas like attics and garages, are well-insulated.
A burst pipe can cause severe water damage, costing homeowners between £500 and £2,000 to repair. Insulating your pipes is a much smaller investment and can save you from these unexpected expenses.
Pro Tip:
Focus on insulating exposed pipes in colder areas of your home. Even minimal insulation can make a big difference in preventing freezing during the coldest months.
Bleed Your Radiators for Maximum Efficiency
Have you noticed that parts of your radiators are cold, even when the heating is on? Trapped air could be the problem. Bleeding your radiators releases this air and helps your heating system run more efficiently.
At DD Wilson, we offer radiator bleeding services to keep your heating system running at total capacity. This simple maintenance task can improve your home’s warmth and reduce energy consumption.
Save on Your Heating Bills
According to British Gas, bleeding your radiators can increase your heating efficiency by up to 20%, helping you stay warmer and lower your energy bills.
Did You Know?
Cold spots on radiators can also indicate a buildup of sludge. We offer power flushing services to remove this sludge and boost the performance of your heating system.
Upgrade to an Energy-Efficient Boiler
If your boiler is over a decade old, it could drive up your energy bills. Upgrading to a modern, energy-efficient boiler can significantly reduce your heating costs and carbon footprint.
Why Upgrade?
Older boilers waste 30% to 40% of energy, whereas newer models operate at over 90% efficiency. According to The Energy Saving Trust, upgrading to an A-rated boiler can save you up to £315 a year on your heating bills.
At DD Wilson, we specialise in installing the latest Strom Electric Combi Boilers, which are known for their efficiency and low maintenance requirements. Plus, with our 0% APR finance options, upgrading to a new boiler is more affordable than ever.
Stay Ahead of Rising Energy Costs in 2024
With UK energy costs expected to rise further, reaching over £2,000 annually for the average household, upgrading to an energy-efficient heating system is more important than ever. A new boiler can help offset rising costs and provide long-term savings.
A(Rated) Fact:
Switching from a G-rated boiler to an A-rated one can reduce your carbon footprint by around 1.5 tonnes of CO2 per year—the equivalent of taking a small car off the road.
Emergency Call-Out Services
A broken boiler or burst pipe can cause chaos in the middle of winter. Fortunately, DD Wilson Plumbing & Heating offers 24/7 emergency plumbing and heating services, so you’ll never be left in the cold. Our expert team is always on hand to tackle any issue, no matter the time.
The Importance of Quick Action
When temperatures drop, time is critical. A burst pipe or broken boiler can cause extensive damage if not dealt with immediately. Our emergency services are designed to minimise disruption and quickly restore your home’s heating.
Did You Know?
Most insurance policies require immediate action to prevent further damage in emergencies like burst pipes. A plumber on-call can help you avoid delays and meet your insurer’s requirements.
Smart Thermostat Installation for Efficient Control
Smart thermostats have revolutionised home heating, allowing you to control your heating remotely and ensure maximum efficiency. At DD Wilson, we install Nest, Hive, and other smart thermostats, which can reduce your energy bills by up to £150 per year by optimising your heating schedule.
With smart thermostats, you can program your heating to turn on just before you arrive home, ensuring you’re always comfortable while reducing energy waste.
Winter can be harsh, but by preparing your home now, you can avoid costly breakdowns and keep your energy bills in check. Whether you need boiler servicing, radiator repairs, or a complete heating system upgrade, DD Wilson Plumbing & Heating is here to help. Don’t wait until it’s too late—get in touch today and winter-proof your home with expert care.
Contact Us:
Visit our website: www.ddwilson.com
Call us: 0151 739 8945
Please email us: info@ddwilson.com
Take action now to ensure your home stays warm, safe, and energy-efficient throughout winter.
