In winter, the darkness and fluctuating temperatures highlight many of the everyday challenges that are reflected in our customer service contacts. Often these questions relate to the functionality of lighting, efficient heating and ensuring the safety of your home. In this blog post, we'll go through the six most common electrical alarms that occur during the winter - and how to resolve them.
NOTE! When it comes to electrical work, it is important to remember that an ordinary electricity user is only allowed to carry out minor electrical work himself. Only a professional electrician is allowed to do the actual electrical installation work, so it is always best to leave even the smallest electrical installation to an electrician.
1. The electricity is off and changing the fuses does not help
The darkness of winter brings with it electrical and lighting problems that sometimes require professional help. When lights go out and fuses cannot be replaced, the cause may lie deeper in the electrical system. Although you can replace an old-style plug fuse yourself, following electrical safety guidelines, it is important to be aware of the risks: if done incorrectly, fuse replacement can be life-threatening. Replacing fixed automatic fuses, on the other hand, should always be done by a trained professional.
2. Radiators do not heat
Heating problems can be particularly critical in winter, for a variety of reasons. Technical faults in the heating system, an airless system or the need to replace outdated radiators can reduce the thermal comfort of your home at the time when you need it most.
Radiator ventilation is a relatively simple operation that can usually be done by yourself. If the radiator is not heating properly or is making a lorry noise, this could be due to air build-up in the system. If you live in a rented property, follow the landlord's instructions.
Radiator ventilation in a private house
- Ensure sufficient pressure
First, check that there is sufficient pressure in the heating system. If there is not enough pressure, venting can make the situation worse, as the vacuum will suck more air into the system when the vent screw is opened. Monitor the pressure throughout the airing, as it will drop after each radiator airing. - Start the expression from the lowest layer
Air the radiators in order from the bottom up. - Switch off the circulation pump
Unplug the circulation pump before starting the airing process. - Close the radiator valve
Turn the thermostat fully closed to prevent water from flowing into the radiator during airing. Provide towels next to the radiator in case of possible water leaks. - Open the air screw
Gently turn the air screw counterclockwise. Use a suitable tool with a square hole - available from plumbers' shops and department stores. On some models, the air screw can also be opened with a chisel-head screwdriver. Don't turn the screw too loose, because if it comes loose, water can spray out at high pressure. - Close the air screw
When no more air is coming in, tighten the screw firmly. If water starts to come out of the radiator, be careful, as it can be very hot! - Check the pressure and repeat if necessary
Check the system pressure after each radiator airing. If necessary, increase the pressure before starting the next radiator venting. - Open the thermostat
Once you have vented the radiator, turn the thermostat back on. - Turn the circulation pump back on
Finally, switch the circulation pump back on by plugging it into the socket.
If the radiator does not heat up after airing or if the problem keeps recurring, there may be a wider problem that requires further investigation. In this case, it is a good idea to contact 24 Center Customer Service.
3. Sockets do not work
Sockets are a key part of the electrical system in terms of comfort. Their functionality is important for the safety and comfort of the household. If a socket is not working properly or if its outer surface is damaged, it can cause serious problems.
Socket replacement:
If the socket is old or the outer surface is broken, you can replace it yourself - but only if you are sure you know how to unplug it safely and work carefully.
When the socket does not work properly:
If the socket consistently causes power to cut out, burn or feel hot, it may indicate a major fault, such as a grounding problem or poor wiring. In this case, call a professional to sort out the problem.
Socket installation:
Installing a new socket or connecting an old one requires electrical installation skills. If you are not familiar with electrical installations, it is always advisable to call a qualified electrician.
4. Installation of luminaires
In winter, lighting plays a key role - both to create atmosphere and to increase safety on dark evenings. Even as the darkness begins to recede, darkness still seems to surround us almost around the clock. Functional lighting brings practicality and safety to everyday life.
If the installation of a luminaire requires connection to the mains, such as installing a ceiling light or adding a light controller (such as a dimmer), it is best to call a professional.
If the lamps do not work after bulb replacement, or if there is sparking or hot wiring in the electrical connections, contact 24 Center. We will send an electrician to check and repair any faults safely.
5. Parking lot temperature shutters do not work
Cold frosty mornings make it difficult to start your car. Repeated cold engine starts can also shorten the life of the vehicle if the temperature trap does not work. First, check that the temperature plug is connected correctly and that there is power in the socket. Also make sure there is no visible damage or loose connections in the wiring. If the fuse box looks in good condition from the outside but still does not work, check the vehicle's fuses. A blown fuse may be the cause, and replacing it may solve the problem. Also check that the socket connections are not dirty or rusty.
If the thermostat does not work despite replacing the fuse and the socket is OK, the fault may be in the thermostat itself or in the car wiring. In this case, you should call a professional to check if there is an internal fault in the pole or if there is something wrong with the wiring. Also, if the radiator won't start even though the other systems are working normally, a professional check is necessary.
6. The gutters are frozen
Frozen gutters can cause serious problems in winter, as they prevent water from escaping from the roof and can lead to the formation of icicles. Not only do icicles look dangerous, but they can also stress roof structures, increasing the risk of roof leaks.
You can try melting the ice gently, for example with warm water or by using gutter melting cables if they are installed. If the freezing is widespread and you are not able to do it yourself, you should call a professional.
If you encounter electrical problems in winter, don't stay alone! Contact our expert team and we'll solve your problems quickly and safely. You can also get in touch if you're not quite sure what to do.
