As a student living away from home for the first time, preparing your student accommodation for the colder months can seem a little daunting. With autumn turning to winter, it’s important to take some steps to make sure your home is warm, cosy, and free from issues like drafts, damp, or frozen pipes. Whether you’re in a shared house or private student accommodation, a little maintenance can make all the difference. Here’s how to get your student home ready for the chillier months ahead.
1. Check Your Heating System
At Student Rooms 4 U, we manage the heating in most of our properties, so you can rest assured that everything is taken care of. If you notice anything unusual—such as radiators staying cold or making strange noises—let us know, and we’ll address it promptly. However, if you’re staying at Houndiscombe Road, which is equipped with night storage heaters, you’ll be responsible for managing your own supply and heating system. While we manage the systems, there are still things you can do as well…
- Bleed Radiators: If your home has radiators, they may need bleeding to work efficiently. This is a simple process you can do with a radiator key (available at hardware stores). Just turn the key to release trapped air, and once water starts trickling out, close it back up. This ensures your radiators are heating properly, keeping you warm without wasting energy.
- Report Problems Early: As a student, it’s tempting to wait until the last minute to report issues, but it’s important to get any heating problems fixed before winter fully arrives. Contact your landlord as soon as possible to avoid being left in the cold.
2. Keep Drafts Out
Drafty homes are not only uncomfortable, but they also force your heating system to work harder, making your bills higher. Preventing drafts is an easy and affordable way to keep your student home warm.
- Seal Windows and Doors: Gaps around windows and doors are the most common sources of drafts. Check for any noticeable drafts and use inexpensive draft excluders or weatherstrips to seal them. These can be picked up from any local DIY store and make a big difference in keeping the cold air out.
- Close Your Curtains: In the evenings, keep your curtains or blinds closed to trap heat inside. If you’re living in student accommodation, consider investing in thick curtains or even thermal linings to make your room warmer without turning up the heat.
3. Keep Your Space Well-Ventilated
It might seem counterintuitive to open windows in winter, but good ventilation helps prevent condensation, which can lead to dampness and mould—both of which are common issues in student accommodation.
- Open Windows Briefly: Even on cold days, try to open your windows for 10–15 minutes each day. This lets fresh air circulate and prevents moisture from building up, which is especially important if you’re cooking, showering, or drying clothes indoors.
- Use Extractor Fans: Always use extractor fans in the kitchen and bathroom if you have them. They help remove steam and moisture from the air, reducing the likelihood of condensation.
- Report Damp and Mould Early: If you spot signs of damp or mould—like dark spots on the walls or a musty smell—report it to your landlord immediately.
4. Clear Gutters and Drains
Autumn leaves can clog gutters and drains, leading to overflowing water and potentially causing leaks or damage. While you might not be responsible for this in your student house, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on it.
- Ask Your Landlord to Check the Gutters: If your home has gutters, ask your landlord to make sure they’re cleared of leaves and debris. This is especially important after autumn when blockages can lead to water damage.
- Keep Drains Free of Debris: If you have outdoor drains, make sure they’re not blocked by leaves or rubbish. Blocked drains can lead to flooding, which can cause serious problems for your home.
5. Be Ready for Power Outages
While power outages aren’t common, winter storms can occasionally cause short-term power cuts. Being prepared means you won’t be caught off guard.
- Keep Supplies Handy: It’s a good idea to have torches, batteries, and candles in your student house in case of a power cut. Don’t forget to charge your phone and other devices ahead of time if bad weather is forecast.
- Layer Up: If the power goes out, make sure you have extra blankets and warm clothing to hand. Layering up will keep you warm while you wait for the power to return.
As a student, taking responsibility for your living space can feel overwhelming, especially in the colder months. However, by following these essential maintenance tips—checking your heating, sealing drafts, insulating pipes, and keeping your space ventilated—you can make sure your home stays warm, comfortable, and safe all winter. With a little preparation, you’ll be ready to tackle the cold and enjoy your student life in Plymouth, whatever the weather brings!
At Student Rooms 4 U, we understand how important it is to feel comfortable and secure in your student home, especially during the colder months. That’s why we have a dedicated maintenance team available to address any issues that arise, from heating problems to damp concerns. If you need assistance or have questions about your accommodation, you can easily contact our team during the week, and we’ll ensure that any maintenance concerns are dealt with promptly. We’re here to make your student living experience as stress-free as possible.
