Winter Ready in 5 Steps: Your Essential Guide for a Safe & Cosy Home This Season
As winter approaches and the temperatures drop, now is the perfect time to make sure your home is safe, efficient and ready for the colder months ahead. Whether you’re a tenant wanting a warmer, more comfortable home or a landlord ensuring your property is protected during winter, a little preparation goes a long way.
A helpful guide:
To help you stay ahead, we have put together five essential steps to get your home winter-ready.
1. Bleed Your Radiators for Maximum Efficiency
If your radiators feel hot at the bottom but cold at the top, trapped air is stopping them from heating properly.
Bleeding radiators:
- Helps heat your home more quickly
- Reduces energy waste
- Keeps your heating system working more efficiently
This simple step can make a noticeable difference to comfort and energy bills.
2. Check Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarms
Winter brings increased use of heating systems, making safety checks more important than ever.
Take a moment to:
- Test all smoke alarms
- Test carbon monoxide alarms
- Replace batteries where needed
- Report any faults to your landlord or agent immediately
It is quick, easy and could save lives.
3. Seal Doors & Windows to Keep Heat In
Draughts are one of the biggest sources of heat loss in winter.
Simple fixes include:
- Draught-excluder strips around doors
- Temporary window film
- Soft draught stoppers
- Closing curtains to retain heat in the evenings
These low-cost steps can make your home feel warmer and reduce energy consumption.
4. Set Your Boiler & Heating to an Efficient Schedule
Rather than waiting for the cold to creep in, set your heating to a steady, efficient pattern:
- Use timers for consistent, cost-effective warmth
- Keep your home at a safe minimum temperature to prevent frozen pipes
- If you are unsure how your boiler works, ask your agent or check the instruction manual
A well-planned heating schedule keeps your home warm without spikes in usage or costs.
5. Clear Gutters & Outdoor Drains
This step is especially important for landlords, but tenants in houses can help too.
Leaves, moss and debris build up quickly in autumn and can cause:
- Blocked gutters
- Leaks
- Damp issues
- Overflowing water
- External damage during storms
Clearing gutters and drains before heavy winter rainfall is one of the most effective ways to protect the property.
Stay Safe, Warm & Prepared This Winter
Preparing your home for winter doesn’t need to be complicated. These simple steps can save time, money and stress — and ensure you enjoy a warm, safe and comfortable season.
We are here to support both tenants and landlords with year-round guidance and professional property care.
