Winter in the UK can bring some truly biting weather, and while a cosy night in sounds lovely, the reality of a cold, vulnerable home is far from ideal.

Keeping the warmth in is often about simple, consistent actions. Here are some of our honest advice, no jargon, tips:

Seal the Gaps: Draughts are notorious for letting warm air escape. Check around windows and doors for any gaps and use draught excluders or self-adhesive foam strips. It’s a small fix that makes a big difference.

Insulate, Insulate, Insulate: If you haven't already, consider loft and cavity wall insulation. This is a significant investment that pays dividends in warmth and energy savings, and it's a great selling point too!

Mind Your Curtains and Blinds: Heavy curtains can be your best friend in winter. Close them as soon as dusk falls to trap heat inside. During the day, open them wide to let in any available sunlight, which offers natural warmth.

Bleed Your Radiators: If your radiators aren't heating evenly, they might have air trapped inside. Bleeding them is a simple task that ensures they work efficiently, distributing heat properly throughout your home.

Service Your Boiler: A well-maintained boiler is crucial. Get it serviced annually by a Gas Safe registered engineer to ensure it's running efficiently and safely. This prevents breakdowns when you need it most and gives you peace of mind.

Beyond warmth, safety is paramount. Cold weather can bring specific risks that need addressing:

Prevent Frozen Pipes: This is a big one! Frozen pipes can burst, causing extensive and expensive damage. Keep your heating on a low setting (around 10-12°C) even when you're out or away, especially if temperatures are set to drop below freezing. Insulate exposed pipes in lofts, garages, and under sinks with foam lagging.

Check Your Roof and Gutters: Before the really bad weather hits, ensure your gutters are clear of leaves and debris. Blocked gutters can lead to water backing up, freezing, and causing damage to your roofline and walls. Check for any loose or missing roof tiles that could let in water or cold air.

Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms: With heating systems working harder and more indoor activity, ensure your alarms are fully functional. Test them regularly and replace batteries as needed. This is a non-negotiable safety measure.

Secure Outdoor Items: High winds can accompany cold snaps. Secure any loose items in your garden, such as furniture, trampolines, or sheds, to prevent them from becoming hazards.

Prepare for Power Cuts: Keep a torch, spare batteries, and a fully charged power bank handy. It’s always wise to have a few blankets and non-perishable food items too, just in case.