How to Prepare for the Heating Season?
Heating season – When does it start?
We are currently in the autumn season. Outside temperatures are slowly dropping, The start of the heating season depends on the weather and the duration of low temperatures. The heating season usually starts around late September to early October and lasts, on average, until around April. When answering the question of how long the heating season lasts, one must primarily consider the prevailing temperatures. If the winter is harsh, the period of heating homes and apartments may be longer.
We mentioned that the outside temperature significantly impacts when the heating system is turned on. At what temperature should heating be turned on? Information circulating online suggests turning it on when the temperature drops below 10℃ for three consecutive days or when the indoor temperature is 16℃ or lower. However, in reality, the heating in multi-family buildings is controlled by the heating plant. Most apartments have individual heat meters, so once the heating is turned on, users can control the heat supply to their homes by adjusting the radiator valve. It all depends on the needs and preferences of the users. During the transitional period, heating is often only turned on in the evenings when the temperatures drop further. Most homeowners choose to briefly turn on the heating during the transitional period, such as to heat water for bathing.
How to prepare radiators for the heating season?
One of the key steps in preparing for the upcoming heating season is checking the radiators. In a traditional heating system, radiators are responsible for distributing heat into the rooms. The first step should be cleaning the radiators and removing any dust. This will make the heating more efficient and safer for your health (especially for those with asthma or allergies).
Also, note that radiators may be air-locked after the previous heating season. If the radiator doesn’t heat evenly across its surface or isn’t warm enough, it likely needs attention. It’s essential to know which radiator to bleed first. The first radiator to be bled should be the one closest to the boiler (in a house) or the hot water supply pipe (in an apartment block). Then, continue bleeding the other radiators.
What surprises may occur before the heating season with a central heating (CO) boiler?
Preparing for the heating season can bring unexpected challenges. One of the worrying signs to watch for is gurgling in the central heating boiler. This could be caused by air in the heat exchanger. Newer boilers have automatic air release systems, but in older models, the problem needs attention, as any deposits and contaminants in the boiler can significantly reduce its efficiency.
In such cases, the boiler should be thoroughly cleaned using dedicated cleaning agents and possibly undergo professional maintenance. It’s worth contacting an installer to guide you through the process. If you have a central heating boiler as your heat source, be sure to check its technical condition before turning on the heating.
How to prepare underfloor heating for the season?
Many savvy homeowners are increasingly opting for high-quality underfloor heating instead of traditional radiators. It provides not only better thermal comfort and energy efficiency but also allows for more space in rooms. Using underfloor heating in the new season also requires some preparation. It’s essential to conduct regular inspections of the system and the heat source it works with (e.g., a central heating boiler or heat pump). Basic checks can be done independently, but it’s best to leave advanced inspections to professionals. When using underfloor heating for the first time in the season, proper adjustment is crucial to ensure smooth operation throughout the winter.
Other maintenance tasks before the heating season
In addition to checking radiators or underfloor heating systems, it’s essential to inspect the heat sources. Every component of the system should work flawlessly. A malfunctioning system could lower the efficiency of the installation.
Depending on the type of heating system, recommended pre-season tasks include checking the exhaust-air system, cleaning the chimney, and adjusting the boiler’s settings or control thermostats. You can also clean air vents and check the water pressure in the system. Why is this important? Low pressure will prevent the water or heating agent from circulating efficiently, leading to uneven heating in different rooms. If you notice any issues with your heating system, it’s best to consult a professional. Doing so before the heating season will help ensure efficient heating and comfortable warmth on cold days.
Efficient heating
If you want to ensure comfort and high-quality heating during the season, it’s worth consulting a professional to help you choose the best solutions. We specialize in designing underfloor heating systems, including dry and traditional underfloor heating. They also offer innovative surface heating solutions. Contact a representative to learn more about the latest heating technologies and tips for preparing your home for the upcoming heating season.
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