Home Advice
In this section you'll find some helpful hints on how to keep your home in order all year round, as well as some practical videos. We also have a rolling schedule of planned maintenance. For more information please click here https://www.housingsolutions.co.uk/rent-and-repairs/home-advice/planned-maintenance/
Exclusive Jewson discount for all Housing Solutions residents
Get a generous 15% off all items at Jewson, 1 Reform Road Maidenhead SL6 8BY. Please take your proof of address and a rent / service charge letter and quote reference RESD035 to get your discount.
Heating
How do I get the best out of my storage heaters?
Storage heaters are designed to heat up at night when electricity is cheaper and then release the heat gradually during the day. Here are a few helpful tips to help you get the best out of your storage heaters:
- Keep the grills on your storage heaters closed at night to save as much heat as possible.
- When you want to release more heat, open the grills and adjust them to suit your needs.
- Avoid using your immersion switch (for extra hot water) as this uses more electricity so it will increase your electricity bills.
What temperature should I set my thermostat?
We recommend 20*c. Even turning thermostat down 1*c from normal will save money over a year.
What temperature should the boiler flow temperature be?
You can reduce it to 60-65*c to save money over the year.
Should I bleed my radiators?
Yes, this will help your heating system to work more efficiently.
Should I set my programmer?
Yes, setting a timer for heating and hot water will save money.
Should I leave radiators on in unused rooms?
It's a good idea to keep the radiator valve on low to help prevent condensation and damp.
Does furniture in front of a radiator affect heating?
Yes! Leave space around radiators and tuck curtains behind them to allow heat to circulate.
How can I reduce the use of hot water?
Showering is more cost effective than having baths.
Helpful Videos & Tips
These videos are provided for reference only. Please do not attempt to undertake any repairs if you do not feel comfortable doing so. You carry out repairs at your own risk and we do accept any responsibility.
How to thaw frozen pipes
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Identify the frozen pipe: Check for any signs of frost or decreased water pressure in your kitchen tap’s water flow. If you suspect a pipe is frozen, turn off the water supply to that pipe.
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Locate the frozen section: The frozen section of the pipe is usually the part that is exposed to the cold. You can use a hairdryer or a hot towel to locate the frozen section.
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Thaw the pipe: Slowly pour hot water along the length of the frozen pipe, starting from the tap or faucet end. Be sure to cover as much of the frozen length of pipe as possible.
Following this, wrap the pipe in hot towels, which will have picked up the hot water’s heat and keep the pipe warm, speeding up the thawing process
Remember, never use a naked flame or blowtorch to thaw the pipe, as direct heat can cause the pipe to burst-Also, be careful not to cause a meltdown by thawing the pipe too quickly.
How to Bleed a Radiator
How to Re-pressurise a Heating System with an External Filling Hose
How to Pressurise a Glow-worm Boiler 1
How to fix some common problems with your boiler
What To Do If Your Hot Water or Central Heating Isn't Working
How to replace your smoke alarm batteries
How to stop the toiler flush from running after flushing
How to replace a shower head and hose
How to unblock a sink
