How to prepare your home for a cold snap

It pays to prepare your home for the worst of the British weather. Make sure your home is ready for winter with these handy hints.

1. Clear the gutters and drains of debris

Leaves, silt, litter and debris build up over time causing blockages in the guttering. Gutters that are left unattended cause leaks, which could even lead to structural damage and other problems that are far more complex to resolve.

2. Ensure you have your boiler serviced regularly

Getting your boiler serviced once every 12 months will ensure it's running efficiently and safely. The last thing you want when the winter months draw in is a broken boiler!

3. Keep your heating on a timer

Having the heating on only when you need it is, in the long run, the best way to save energy, and therefore money. According to Energy Saving Trust, using a timer is best, because your thermostat is designed to turn your heating on and off to keep your home at the temperature you set it.

4. Draught-proof windows and doors

Draught-proofing is one of the cheapest and most effective ways to save energy and money.

Draughts happen where there are unwanted gaps in your home, and where openings are left uncovered. For windows that open, buy draught-proofing strips to stick around the window frame and fill the gap between the window and the frame.

Draught-proofing external doors can stop heat from escaping. Consider:

• Buying a cover that drops a metal disc over the keyhole

• Using a letterbox brush

• Use a hinged flag draught excluded to cover the gap at the bottom

• Fit foam or brushes for the gaps around the edges

5. Bleed radiators

Radiators can end up with air in the pipes in any season. However, it's a good idea to bleed the system at the beginning of the heating season so that you're ready for the winter.

When your radiators don’t work, it could be an indication that your central heating system is not working efficiently. This means it will take longer for it to warm up your home and therefore could result in costly utility bills.

6. Keep your pipes warm  

Cold temperatures can cause water pipes to freeze. The best prevention against frozen pipes is to keep them warm enough to stay above the freezing point.

Pipes that are located in areas that do not have proper insulation, such as basements or attics, may need extra insulation to keep from freezing.

7. Insulate your loft space

Insulating your loft is one of the most effective ways to reduce heating bills and be more energy-efficient. Check out B&Q's guide to insulating your loft here.