WINTER BOILER WARNING

Now that winter is around the corner and temperatures are beginning to plummet in some areas of the country, landlords are being advised to ensure that their boilers are in good condition ahead of the impending cold weather.

New analysis from Direct Line for Business revealed that the number of broken down boiler claims increased 37% last winter compared to 2013. When you compare that to the winter of 2012, the increase is even more significant at 151%.

The main reasons for boiler breakdowns include the heat exchanger cracking or rapturing, valves failing, seals leaking, circuit fault and frozen pipes.

Jane Guaschi, business manager at Direct Line for Business said: “Winter sees a spike in claims for boiler breakdowns, so we hope that landlords have safeguarded their properties against catastrophes over the cold snap.

“Making sure the boiler is regularly serviced by a Gas Safe registered engineer can help avoid any future disruption and can also ensure maximum efficiency of the central heating system. It’s a good idea to schedule the service for the boiler at the same time as the annual mandatory Gas Safety Check.”

There are some things that landlords can do in order to ensure that their properties remain warm over the winter period and help alleviate any potential problems from occurring:

• Keep the heating on: With the cold weather modern condensing boilers can become susceptible to frozen pipes. You should ensure tenants keep the heating on low during the cold weather rather than turning it off completely.
• Bleed radiators: If you feel that the radiators are not warming up as they should, it could be down to the fact that there is air trapped in the system. You should try bleeding the radiators to see if it alleviates the problem.
• Service your boiler: It is a good idea to ensure that your boiler is serviced once a year. This will allow you to prevent any potential problems or to minimise any that could have otherwise become serious. It is also a good way of prolonging the life of your boiler.

If you have any queries concerning the above, please don’t hesitate to contact Orchard & Shipman today. As a company with over 25 years’ experience dealing with private landlords, our team of experts understand the impact something like cold weather can have. We’re readily available to guide and advise you through whatever concern you may have.