Council tenants encouraged to test heating before temperatures drop
Published
Get winter-ready: test your heating now!
As the colder months approach, we’re encouraging all our tenants to turn on your heating and test it now - before the winter chill sets in.
Why test early?
Make sure your heating is working properly
Spot any issues before the cold weather arrives
Give us time to help if repairs are needed
What to do:
Getting your home ready for winter doesn’t have to be a hassle. Here are some quick things you can do now to make sure your heating works smoothly when you need it most:
1. Give your boiler a quick test
Run it for at least 30 minutes to check it’s working. It’s much easier to fix problems now than in the middle of a cold snap! Listen for unusual noises or signs of a fault.
2. Check your thermostat
Make sure it’s working and set to a comfortable temperature. Lower settings (around 18–21°C) can help save energy and money.
3. Bleed your radiators
If they’re warm at the bottom but cold at the top, they might need a quick bleed. A radiator key and a few minutes can make all the difference if you feel confident to do so.
4. Keep air moving
Clear vents and open windows for short periods to reduce condensation and damp. Fresh air helps keep your home healthy.
5. Test your carbon monoxide alarm
Press the button to check it’s working—it only takes a second and could save your life. We’ll still do our annual safety check, but regular self-checks are a great extra step.
If you notice any problems, report them straight away via email at Property.Care@stroud.gov.uk or phone 01453 754852 and we'll make arrangements to fix it.
Let’s make sure your home stays warm and safe this winter.
Thank you for helping us keep things running smoothly!
