Heating Season Preparation
Checklist before turning on heating for the season - what to check to stay warm and problem-free in winter.
Introduction
In Latvia, the heating season typically starts in October and lasts until April - almost half the year. Proper preparation before the season begins can prevent unpleasant surprises on the coldest days when heating problems become particularly critical. In Liepaja, where winters can be wet and windy, a well-functioning heating system is especially important.
Step by Step
- 1
Inspect radiators and their connections. Visually examine all radiators - look for signs of rust, corrosion, cracks, or moisture traces under connections. Make sure all radiator thermostatic valves (if present) turn freely and aren't stuck.
- 2
Clean radiators of dust and debris. Dust on and between radiator fins reduces heat output by 10-15%. Use a vacuum cleaner with a narrow nozzle or a special radiator brush. If radiators are painted with thick layers of paint - this also reduces efficiency.
- 3
Check the heating system pressure. If you have access to the heat substation or boiler, check the pressure gauge. Normal pressure is 1-1.5 bar. Pressure too low means water needs to be added to the system or there's a leak. Too high pressure can cause an emergency.
- 4
Prepare the ventilation system. Clean ventilation grilles in the kitchen and bathroom. Check that natural ventilation is working (paper test at the opening). Good ventilation is essential even during heating season to avoid condensation and mold.
- 5
Check thermostats and control elements. If your apartment has programmable thermostats or smart controllers - make sure they work and batteries aren't dead. Set a comfortable temperature schedule - you can keep it lower at night (18 degrees C), higher during the day (21 degrees C).
Warnings
- Never try to add water to the central heating system in an apartment building yourself - this must be done by the property manager or specialist!
- If a radiator is completely cold while others are warm - don't open connections yourself. The problem may be deeper in the system.
- At the start of heating season, small leaks often appear from connections that dried out during summer. Watch carefully during the first week.
When to Call ABA?
Before the heating season starts is the ideal time for heating system maintenance. We can check and bleed air from radiators, inspect connections, balance the system, and fix problems while it's still warm outside.
277 66 340Tools Needed
- Vacuum cleaner with narrow nozzle
- Radiator brush
- Radiator key for bleeding air
- Rag and container for water
Pro Tip
Schedule your heating system inspection for September - before the season starts, it's easier and faster to get a technician. In October's cold, everyone calls at once and wait times can be longer.