Good quality repairs - warm homes in Southwark
Published 16 September 2010
Today, the council will begin the process of switching on its district heating, which will heat around 17,000 homes.
The main boilers are gradually brought up to temperature as a safety measure, in the same way that they are gradually cooled down before summer.
This means that full heating will not be available immediately – it can take a few days and there can be some teething problems.
The boilers are switched off for some months each year, and as with normal domestic radiators, they often require some maintenance such as removing airlocks and bleeding of individual radiators just after they are switched on.
Some systems are based on the temperature in the boiler house. If the temperature rises above 17 degrees, the boilers will automatically switch off to save energy and so that heating is not left on unnecessarily.
Councillor Ian Wingfield, cabinet member for housing said: "No-one will be left out in the cold this winter, we have a responsive engineering team ready prepared to deal with any issues arising from the heating being switched on and I am committed to ensuring that heating repairs are responded to as a priority. Our heating teams will be monitored to ensure that residents are offered good quality repairs this winter."
The repairs control centre is prepared for an increased volume in calls, and residents can be reassured that we are here to help. Council tenants can report a repair 24-hours a day on 0800 952 4444.
A continuing programme of improvement and upgrade works to heating is planned during 2010/11 to Gilesmead, Tadworth House, New Kinglake estate, North Peckham estate, Newington estate and Brandon estate with a combined value of £4.5m.
Find out more about housing repairs.
