Simple checks to prevent faulty heaters this winter
Hackney Council is urging tenants to think ahead and check their heating throughout the summer months to avoid being caught in the cold.
The Council often receives a high number of calls about faulty heaters towards the end of September and beginning of October as the nights draw in and temperatures drop. This can lead a backlog of emergency call-outs that mean some residents may face waiting for heating repairs.
Council tenants that have their own heating systems – rather than a communal heating system – are being advised to check their heating once-a-month during July, August and September and report any problems immediately.
It is quick and simple to test your heating and will leave you reassured that you are prepared for winter. All you need to do is:
- Make sure you have both gas and electric credit on your meters
- Turn on your programmer to heating
- Turn on all radiator valves
- Turn the room thermostat to maximum
- The heating valves should open and the pump should run
- Radiators should now get hot
- Run for five minutes and then turn off
It is very important that you check your heating well in advance. Although your boiler will be working throughout the summer, the majority of the time it will be in hot water mode and working fine but you should regularly check your heating ready for winter. We don’t want any of our tenants to be left waiting for repairs. We urge you to work with us on helping to prevent any problems.
If the heating does not come on after carrying out these checks, tenants can report the repair online or alternatively contact the Repairs Call Centre on: 0208 356 3691.
