One of the worse things in the world is having a boiler breakdown in the middle of winter. Winter is an exceptionally busy time for plumbers, and if you need an extensive repair or a brand new system, it is not always possible to fit you in. That means you may have to come up with some contingency plans. If you are lucky enough to have a log-burning stove, then this may well serve you well, but if you don’t, you need some other solutions.

In a lot of cases, a boiler breaking down also means you have no hot water for anything, maybe you have an electric shower, but if not, you are going to have to find some kind of solution. So, let’s take a look at a few.

Your Boiler

As prevention is always better than cure, really you need to have annual maintenance checkups generally performed at the end of summer when plumbers are not at the peak times, and you are not in dire need of it. If your boiler has broken down, this is something to bear in mind for future reference. However, one of the best solutions to a broken boiler is to hire a boiler that will swerve you perfectly well until you can get your one repaired. Boiler rentals are becoming increasingly popular for this very reason and due to the fact that people find it difficult to stay on top of their boiler maintenance. A rental is clearly one of the best solutions on the market.

The Gas

If your boiler has suddenly died, it may be a wise idea to turn your gas meter off at the mains. There is a level on the pipe going into the meter, and this will make the house gas safe. If you do not do this, there may be a small leak that you haven’t detected, which can be extremely dangerous not just for you but also for your close neighbors because gas can explode. Another consideration is that a gas leak can cause carbon monoxide poisoning which can be potentially fatal. So, if in doubt, turn the gas off at the meter, then no gas will be flowing about the internal gas lines.

Electric Heating

Having a few backup electric heaters and things such as electric blankets may be a great idea to tide you over. They are in no way as efficient and warming as central heating, but they definitely can tide you over. Additionally, they can cost a fairy but to run too. So, it may be worth your while checking your electric meter and working out how much they are to run before you end up getting a huge electricity bill.

Shut Everything

You need to be extra vigilant about retaining as much heat as you can, so external doors, windows, doors to rooms that are not used need to be shut as much as possible. You really do not want to be heating up empty rooms if you do not need to if you are relying on electric heaters. If you are concerned about any pipes freezing, then maybe you could drain them or insulate them properly.

Windows

Hopefully, you already have double or triple glazing, but if not, then you can make the home a little more insulated by applying clingfilm to the windows. This is a great trick in the dead of winter, and you only have single glazing. Although it is not the most attractive workaround, it can help keep the house warm. Another trick with windows is to fill up any gaps what some kind of filler and to use warm thick curtains. If you are experiencing an unseasonable sunny day, then open the curtains and try and get as must of that sunlight converted into heat energy through that window. If you do only have single glazing, then you really should look to upgrade the windows to double or triple glazing as this is far more efficient and will save you a lot of money on your heating bills. It is also a great upgrade that adds value to your home. A lot of people will be savvy enough to check the windows when it comes to buying, so beware.

Wrap Up Warm

This goes without saying really, but you will need to wrap up warm, so don the thermal underwear and thick socks, and layer up. A nice blanket on the sofa will do well too. Also, this is a great time to embrace a few hugs with the ones you love too.