As the warmer months approach, it's easy to forget about your central heating system. However, taking some time to properly maintain your boiler and heating system during the spring and into the summer can help prevent problems in the future and ensure its efficiency when winter comes around again.

Just keeping things looked after doesn’t take a lot of time, and is relatively inexpensive too, so it’s worth the effort to avoid needing an emergency plumber when the colder climate arrives later in the year.

Assett Plumbing top tips to maintain your central heating system over the summer.

1. Turn down the Heating:
   The first step in summer maintenance is to reduce the temperature of your heating to a comfortable level, such that the heating will still run and water will circulate but only when the temperate drops.  It’s important to keep things moving in the system as lack of use can cause issues in the system itself. Locate the thermostat and reduce to a temperature lower than you may have set to over the winter as this prevents unnecessary energy consumption and reduces wear and tear on the system.
   
   
2. Bleed the Radiators:
   Before the summer heat sets in, it's a good idea to bleed your radiators. Over time, air can accumulate within the system, causing uneven heat distribution and reduced efficiency. Use a radiator key to open the bleed valve slightly and release any trapped air. Remember to place a cloth or container underneath to catch any water.  After doing this you may need to top up the water pressure in the boiler. You can learn more about how air gets into radiators in our related blog post.
   
   
3. Inspect and Clean the System:
   While your central heating system is getting less use during the summer, it's an ideal time to inspect and clean around the various visible components. Start by examining the boiler for signs of leakage, corrosion, or unusual noises. Check the pressure gauge to ensure it is within the recommended range and top up if necessary and you are familiar and comfortable doing so. Clean the radiators and again check underneath for corrosion or signs of water damage or leaks.  If required, consult a professional plumber to address any issues.
   
   
4. Service the Boiler:
   Annual boiler servicing is crucial for maintaining its efficiency and prolonging its lifespan. Summer is an opportune time to schedule a professional service. A qualified heating engineer can clean and inspect the internal parts, check the system's safety features, and ensure everything is working correctly. This proactive approach helps identify potential problems before they escalate and guarantees your heating system's optimal performance.
   
   
5. Maintain the Hot Water System:
   Don't forget to pay attention to your hot water system during the summer. If you have a separate hot water cylinder or tank, check for any leaks or corrosion. Ensure that the insulation is intact, as this helps retain heat and improves energy efficiency. If you have a combi boiler, inspect the pressure gauge and temperature settings to ensure they are functioning correctly, and check for any water leakage outside also from overflow pipes.
   
   
6. Check Thermostat Batteries:
   If your central heating system uses battery-powered thermostats, it's important to check and replace the batteries if needed. Faulty batteries can result in inaccurate temperature readings and impact the system's performance or could prevent you from using the heating system at the time you most need it. Remember to test your thermostats to ensure they are working correctly.
   
   
7. Maintain Ventilation:
   Proper ventilation is essential for a healthy central heating system. Check any visible air vents or flues, and extractor fans for blockages or obstructions caused by debris or vegetation, Ensure these areas are clean and free from any restrictions to maintain adequate airflow and prevent carbon monoxide build-up.  But do not dismantle anything or take risks that are best left to a professional plumber.
   
   
8. Check your carbon monoxide detector:
   If you don’t already have one - get one!  If you do have one then check it is working - this is usually as simple as pressing the test button.  If you have a battery powered carbon monoxide detector then the batteries should be replaced at least once per year to guarantee it is working well, as this could save lives in the event of an issue with the boiler.
   
   
9. Prepare for Winter:
   Although summer is a time for relaxation, it's also an opportunity to prepare for the colder months. Take note of any issues you encountered during the previous winter and make a list of necessary repairs or upgrades. Consider scheduling these repairs with your local trusted boiler in advance to avoid the last-minute rush or potential breakdowns when the weather turns cold.