Real Tips from Real Engineers: How to Keep Your Home Safe and Warm All Year Round

26th January 2024

Hometree is serious about good service. From our UK-based call centre staff to our nationwide network of engineers, our dedicated team is committed to providing the best possible customer experience. But let’s be clear, it’s the gas-safe engineers, electricians and plumbers that turn up at the door when you’re in a crisis. It is this independent network, serving our customer’s urgent needs, that are the real heroes.

Today, we want to learn more about some of them and share their excellent insights. They told us how their work gives them that fuzzy warm feeling and shared practical tips so Hometree customers can maintain a safe, cosy home all throughout the year.

Tejdip says “Do a regular valve checkup”

Gas engineer Tejdip at Adonai Energy Services feels privileged to assist people in their time of need. He says, “It’s incredibly rewarding to use my skills and experience to help people with their plumbing and heating needs. It’s a great opportunity to meet people and to contribute to maintaining essential aspects in their homes, from ensuring warmth and gas safety to keeping the water flowing or fixing leaks!”

Tejdip recommends opening and closing thermostatic radiator valves every 3-4 months to prevent internal pins from seizing. Regular operation of valves during warmer periods ensures smooth functioning during colder months.

Asad says “Keep your Boiler active”

Gas Engineer Asad Mehmood enjoys making a vital difference for vulnerable customers. He shares, “Believe me, there is nothing like a smile on an elderly customer once the job is done.”

Asad suggests giving your heating system occasional exercise – simply turning it on for ten minutes every month – emphasising the need to do this even in the summer months.

Perry says “Listen for changes”

Kent-based Gas Engineer Perry Vincent prides himself on delivering top-notch service. He says, “I do find it quite satisfying to be able to attend and enter a customer’s home knowing that I can fix most issues, usually the 1st time I visit.”

Perry advises monitoring heating pressure regularly and reporting any unusual noises promptly to prevent minor issues from turning into major repairs.

Wesley says “Do an RCD test”

Electrician Wesley Watson from Blue Vision Media finds reward in helping people in need. He explains, “When I go to a job I often think what if this was my house and try to do the best I can.”

Wesley emphasises testing your Residual Current Device or “RCD” (on your fuse box). Your RCD should activate in the event someone is exposed to an electrical shock. All RCDs have a test button which should be pressed every month to confirm the unit is in working order. Find yours and make sure it’s working.

Kev says “Check your Boiler pressure” 

Gas Engineer Kev Mullarkey understands the urgency of getting people back up and running swiftly. He explains, “We get great satisfaction from getting people’s heating back up and running, especially when we arrive and see customers despair as they’ve had no heating or hot water on a cold winter morning.”

Kev’s top tip is to check boiler pressure when the heating has reached full temperature, avoiding the red zone on the pressure gauge to prevent leaks and other issues.

Hometree is here if you need a repair but we can all agree, preventing issues is always better. In their own words, these engineers and electricians offer valuable tips to ensure your home remains comfortable and safe throughout the year. We hope you found their advice helpful.