When people switch their heating back on after months of not using it, plumbers are hit with a surge in emergency calls. This busy period, often running from October to November, is known as the ‘silly season’. Boilers, radiators and heating systems that haven’t been used since spring often show problems as soon as colder weather returns.
Common Causes of Sudden Breakdowns
November is the peak month for central heating breakdowns, and a major reason for these faults is lack of regular use. Seals and valves can stick, pumps can seize and air can build up at the top of radiators. Plumbers can reduce winter problems by advising customers to run their heating for around 20 minutes each month during spring and summer to keep parts moving.
Helping Customers Help Themselves
Many call-outs during the silly season are preventable with simple guidance. For example, customers can fix an air-filled radiator by bleeding it. Frozen condensate pipes are another issue that can happen in very cold weather. Letting customers know they can try pouring hot but not boiling water over the outside of the pipe may get the boiler running again without needing a plumber. A new copper pipe, such as the examples seen at https://watkinspowis.co.uk/products/copper-pipe-fittings-and-press-systems, might be needed if a system needs updating.
Using Summer to Reduce Winter Pressure
Plumbers can also get their customers to schedule larger jobs like bathroom refits or heating upgrades during the summer so different tradespeople can work together. This will then make time for emergency work in winter.
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