Top tips for winter: heating, getting about and fire safety
As winter approaches, heating, mobility and fire safety require special attention. With these tips from Antti Tikkanen, Development Manager at VAV, you can get through the winter safely and energy-efficiently.
Keep your appliances in good working order
The most important factor for a radiator to work properly is that there are no obstructions between the thermostat and the air in the room. “There should be a clear line of sight to the thermostat. The radiator must not be hidden behind curtains or furniture; sufficient space must be left around it for air to circulate,” says Antti Tikkanen.
It is also worth checking the air intake vents regularly. If the vents have become dirty, they can be vacuumed or gently washed. This is the resident’s responsibility and helps to keep the ventilation system working properly.
In the kitchen, it is worth paying attention to the grease filter in the cooker hood. Tikkanen recommends washing it about once a month. “If the filter looks in poor condition, you can report this to the maintenance company, and it will be replaced if necessary.”
What is a good indoor temperature in winter?
In winter, humidity typically falls below 40 per cent, making the indoor air feel drier. According to the guidelines on healthy living, the recommended room temperature is 21 degrees, measured at a height of approximately one metre and one metre from the wall.
In the bedroom, the temperature can be slightly lower, for example 18–20 degrees. “A bedroom that is cooler than other rooms improves the quality of sleep and makes it easier to fall asleep,” says Antti.
Save electricity through everyday choices
Small everyday actions can have a significant impact on electricity consumption. It’s worth unplugging chargers and other unused devices from sockets, as they continue to consume electricity even in standby mode.
Antti urges people to pay particular attention to monitoring their devices.
“It’s worth keeping an eye on how you charge your phone and tablet. Furthermore, home entertainment electronics do not usually need to be kept in standby mode all the time. When going on a longer trip, it is a good idea to check which devices can be disconnected from the mains completely. Dishwashers, washing machines and saunas should only be used when the occupant is actually at home.”
Getting about in winter requires caution
Property management companies are doing their best to ensure that snow clearance is carried out as quickly as possible for all properties. If temperatures fluctuate between below and above freezing, outdoor areas may become icy and slippery as a result of thawing.
Antti emphasises the importance of wearing the right footwear. “Winter boots with good grip or anti-slip features help prevent falls.” Being aware of your surroundings is also important. “It’s best to keep your eyes on your surroundings, not on your phone. In winter, a ‘stay alert’ attitude is particularly useful,” says Antti.
The property management company is responsible for the communal areas of the building, but clearing snow from parking spaces and balconies, for example, is the residents’ responsibility. There are shared snow shovels available on the premises.
Waste management and recycling during the festive season
Waste management is a topical issue around Christmas and New Year. “Cooking fats should be placed in a tightly sealed container and then put in the mixed waste bin; never pour them down the drain. Gift wrapping paper and ribbons can be saved for the following year, but if they end up as waste, the correct place for them is the general waste bin”.
“Metals, such as aluminium foil, belong in the metal recycling bin. Broken LED lights and other electrical decorations should be taken to the electrical waste collection point. HSY collects Christmas trees early in the new year,” says Antti.
Fire safety during the festive season
Burning candles is an integral part of the festive atmosphere in winter, but safety must be kept in mind.
“Candles must be placed at a sufficient distance from one another and from flammable materials. They must never be left unattended, especially if there are children or pets at home.”
Outdoor fires should be placed well away from buildings, and remember not to light them in windy weather or on a balcony. Antti recommends choosing eco-labelled candles, which burn cleanly and do not cause allergic reactions.
VAV has recently installed 11,000 smoke alarms in its properties, so residents are well equipped to enjoy a safe winter.
“With these tips, we’ll be just fine. I wish everyone a safe and peaceful winter!”