Autumn sets in and temperatures plummet, accompanied by more frequent rainy days which are sure to cool the atmosphere as well. You can then be very tempted to turn on your heating again. However, after several months of inactivity in the summer, lighting the radiators, the wood stove or the boiler requires a few precautions to avoid any risk of poisoning, of seeing its installations malfunction or of causing an abnormal increase in their electricity or gas bill. Here are the things to do absolutely before turning the heating back on.
When should you turn your heating back on?
To heat yourself without seeing your energy costs explode, you obviously have to choose the date carefully to restart the heating. So as not to re-enable it too soon, perhaps consider the date of around October 15. Of course, this date is only approximate and will obviously vary according to different factors: insulation of the house, inhabited region… In some cities, the cold becomes more biting much more quickly, where other places can wait longer before to see freezing temperatures set in.
Added to this is the fact that the elderly and young children, for example, are more sensitive to the cold, which can motivate earlier ignition. In short, there is no right answer in this matter and it is up to eachadapt your decision to your situation and your needs.
In any case, if the restart date differs, the recommended temperatures per room remain constant. Count 19°C for living rooms such as the living room and 17°C for bedrooms. It is also necessary to follow certain precautions so that the ignition is successful.
What precautions should I take before turning the heating back on?
1) Drain the water radiators
Performing a purge willimprove heat distribution and eliminate air trapped within the device. It is therefore an essential gesture to operate your radiator at its full efficiency. In addition, it is often a very easy operation to perform by unscrewing the wheel present on the sides of the heating device.
2) Clean its facilities
Over time, your heating collects dirt and dust. Also, whether it is an electric or hot water appliance, cleaning is essential before switching it on to ensure that it works properly and to limit the allergic risks associated with dust mites. Before cleaning, remember to turn off your boiler, then proceed to a thorough dusting. If necessary, you can then clean the radiators more thoroughly and whiten them.
3) Check the ventilation of the house
This gesture that we tend to forget is crucial. Indeed, ventilation that is not optimal may tend to increase your heating needs. It can also promote theaccumulation of humidity in your interior. So, both to maintain a healthy ambient air and for better management of your heating, clean your ventilation regularly.
4) Maintain your wood or pellet heating
Sweeping ensures optimum operation of the chimney and the stove while reducing the risk of poisoning or fire. It is therefore a gesture to be carried out at least once a year by a professional.
5) Restart the boiler a little early
If you have water radiators, turn your boiler back on in the winter position before the cold weather returns. This way, you will be able to make sure that your radiators are working properly and know in advance if they need bleeding.
