Preparing your Home for the Impending Cold Spell

It’s not just vulnerable people that should be concerned about the imminent winter season. Everyone should respect just how cold it can get during particularly bad spells and make sure that their homes are well prepared in plenty of time.

Regardless of where you are in the country, you’re bound to face some form of severe winter weather at some point over the coming months; it could be being stuck in a snow storm on a chock-a-block motorway or shoveling snow from your driveways and heading for the grit bin to try and get rid of the ice build-up.

One thing that everyone can do before the winter months properly kick in is prepare their homes so that not only are they warm and cosy, but so that you’re not faced with unpleasant utility bills, either. It’s natural for your energy consumption to spike when it’s colder but there are ways in which you can prepare yourself so that you’re not spending unnecessarily.

While you could always invest in some home improvements – perhaps by looking at your local Baxi boiler suppliers, or taking the plunge and installing double glazing – sometimes, it’s not financially viable, especially when it’s so close to Christmas. Instead, here are a few great ideas to ensure your home (and you) are ready for the winter.

• Avoid high heating costs by keeping your thermostat at a steady 21C and seal any draughts and leaks that your home may have. If you feel a little chilly, reach for the snuggly blanket before cranking the thermostat up. It’s surprising how much that 1C can add to your bill.
• Invest in a boiler service before the winter arrives. That way, you can be sure of a fully functioning boiler before the cold really sets in. We’ve already seen a drop in temperatures – you can just imagine what the next few months will bring!
• Stock up on cozy essentials, such as blankets, slippers and hot water bottles. Pop them onto the Christmas wish list if you can’t justify the pennies yourself. There’s nothing better than snuggling up with your other half under a blanket watching a good movie!
• Make sure you know where the snow shovel is and the de-icer/scraper for your car windows! The snow can hit at any time and it’s best to be prepared rather than trying to dig your way through the snow to get to the shed to find the shovel! 
• Prevent exterior pipes and taps from freezing by lagging them. Turn the water to the outside tap off at the mains. Run hot water through the system regularly and insulate outdoor taps with a tea towel or similar so that the frost doesn’t win!

Preparing for the winter months doesn’t take long and can mean the difference between a hefty repair bill and a happy Christmas. Take a look at the British Gas website if you need any more inspiration – there are some great energy-saving tips on there too. 

By Roxanne Wells