In all the rush to get ready and go on holiday, you may forget to prepare your home for your absence. In winter this can result in some big problems because of the low temperatures. The last thing you want is to come home and find that water pipes have burst because they froze while you were away. The way to avoid this is to ensure your central heating comes on at set times.
Why do pipes burst?
Freezing temperatures cause water to expand and put extra pressure on pipes. In some cases, this can cause cracks that will gradually worsen as water leaks and freezes, opening the gap further. In the worst situations, rapid freezing can burst the pipes right away.
There are two main reasons why pipes freeze. The first is because there is no insulation, therefore no protection against falling temperatures. The second is due to the heating being off for a long time. As a result, the entire property gets cold.
What should you do?
The best thing to do is set your thermostat so your boiler comes on at set times to stave off freezing temperatures. Some heat in the morning, during the day, and at the coldest part of the night can help. While you will be using the energy, it will be much less than you would if you were at home the entire time. It will also work cheaper than having to pay thousands of pounds to repair broken pipes and replace any damaged contents.
Some boilers have frost settings specifically for this kind of use. The idea is the boiler will monitor the temperature within the property and turn the heating on to prevent it from going below freezing. This saves you from having to program the thermostat.
Another thing you can do is ensure your boiler is in good working condition before you go. This is important for several reasons, including the fact that it reduces the risk of breakdowns as well as leaks. Invest in boiler servicing and enjoy the confidence your appliance has been checked by professionals.
If you are planning a winter holiday please take note of the information above. Warm can help you to find reliable engineers excelling in central heating. They can offer servicing, repairs, and advice about how to set your machine for your trip.
Call us today or complete our quote form.
