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Infinity Home Services' engineers can look after your existing, or install new heating distribution such as radiators and pipework throughout your home, keeping you cosy and warm.

Tackling radiator issues before they cost you more

Written by David on . Posted in Uncategorised.

Tackling radiator issues before they cost you more

When National Radiator Day rolls around, it’s not just a gimmick — it’s a timely reminder that homeowners need to pay attention to common radiator problems before winter bites. For many in North Essex, South Suffolk, and beyond, neglecting radiator health can lead to cold rooms, surging energy bills, and stress when breakdowns strike.

Infinity Home Services' engineers can look after your existing, or install new heating distribution such as radiators and pipework throughout your home, keeping you cosy and warm.

Why “National Radiator Day” matters: more than just a campaign

Radiators are the unsung workhorses of UK homes — according to the English Housing Survey, around 90% of homes in England use radiators (or wet central heating systems) as their main heating method. That means nearly every homeowner is potentially affected when something goes wrong.

Yet, survey data shows too many owners skip regular maintenance: just 20% of people check their radiators for faults, and only 25% of households have their heating systems professionally serviced on a routine basis. These gaps leave many homes vulnerable to the worst of radiator problems — especially in colder months.

Let’s walk through the main challenges, the human frustrations they bring, and how to stay ahead of them.

The real challenges behind radiator problems

Radiator issues aren’t just technical annoyances — they affect comfort, bills, and peace of mind. Below are common types and their knock-on effects.

1. Cold or uneven heating

One of the most obvious signs you have a radiator problem is when a radiator stays cold at the top, or a room never seems to reach the desired temperature. This often points to:

  • Air trapped inside the radiator, causing “airlocks”

  • Sludge or debris build-up restricting water flow

  • Faulty thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs) stuck closed

  • Poor system balance (some radiators take priority over others)

  • Pump failure or weak circulation

Left unresolved, cold spots grow, rooms never get cosy, and you may overcompensate by turning up the boiler — increasing wear and your energy bill.

2. Leaks, corrosion, and material wear

Over time, metal radiators suffer wear and tear. Leaks or slow drips may develop around valves or joints. Corrosion (especially in older steel or cast-iron radiators) weakens structure and causes rust flakes to circulate, further clogging the system.

The human cost? Anxiety at the sight of damp patches or staining, and the risk of water damage to plaster, skirting boards, or floor coverings.

3. Noise, banging and gurgling

Nobody wants their heating making a racket. Gurgling, banging, ticking or vibrating sounds often indicate:

  • Trapped air

  • Uneven flow rates

  • Water hammer (sudden pressure changes)

  • Loose pipework or brackets

These noises are not only irritating — they signal the system is under strain. If ignored, parts can loosen or valves can fail.

4. Pressure issues and boiler strain

A radiator problem can drag the whole heating system down. For instance:

  • If the system loses pressure (e.g. due to a leak), the boiler may shut down or struggle

  • Poor radiator flow can force the boiler to operate at higher output (less efficient)

  • Oversized or mismatched radiators make it harder to adopt low‐temperature heat systems later, such as heat pumps

According to a BEIS report, changing radiator performance over time reduces the number of UK homes able to operate comfortably with lower flow temperatures.

The human side: stress, disruption and cost

Behind every radiator issue is a homeowner trying to balance comfort, cost, and inconvenience. Consider:

  • Disruption: Having engineers visit, shutting off rooms, draining pipes

  • Emotional stress: Cold nights, sleeplessness, worry that more will go wrong

  • Unexpected costs: A small repair might lead to a full flush, valve replacement, or even radiator swaps

  • Energy bills rising: Inefficient radiators waste heat — one UK expert warns common radiator mistakes can add £400–£600/year to your heating costs.

All this is exacerbated if you live in older properties common in North Essex or South Suffolk. With solid walls, period features, or mixed heating systems, small inefficiencies become magnified.

How Infinity Home Services can help

As a local heating and plumbing specialist serving North Essex and South Suffolk, Infinity Home Services knows radiator problems inside out. Here’s how we support homeowners:

  • Diagnostics & inspections: We examine your radiator network, check valves, circulation, and pressure to pinpoint the issue.

  • Bleeding, flushing & power-flushing: We can remove sludge and debris efficiently so radiators perform at full output.

  • Valve replacements & radiator swaps: Whether a TRV is stuck or a radiator is beyond repair, we match the right components for your home.

  • System balancing & efficiency tuning: Ensuring all rooms get heat properly, and the boiler runs optimally.

  • Preventive maintenance plans: A regular check schedule to catch faults early and spread costs.

By acting before things escalate, you protect your comfort and budgets for the whole winter ahead.

Tips for homeowners: how to prevent common radiator issues

  1. Bleed your radiators annually — doing so releases trapped air that blocks heat.

  2. Feel your radiators — if the bottom is hot but the top isn’t, there’s a flow issue.

  3. Regular servicing — a qualified engineer should check the whole system yearly.

  4. Install automatic bleed valves — to reduce manual effort.

  5. Use magnetic filters or system inhibitors — to prevent sludge accumulation.

  6. Monitor water pressure — if it drops frequently, it could suggest leaks.

  7. Upgrade inefficent radiators — older models may be undersized or corroded.

Conclusion

“National Radiator Day” is a useful prompt to think about the radiators behind your home’s warmth. Radiator problems — from airlocks and noise to leaks and inefficiency — affect more than just the mechanics. They affect comfort, budgets and peace of mind. With a proactive approach and professional support, you can sidestep breakdowns and expensive repairs.

If you spot signs of trouble, don’t wait until the worst happens — call us or fill in our contact form today so we can restore your heating to full performance.

Contact Us

Ready to fix your radiator woes? Call Infinity Home Services now on 0800 148 8088 or complete our contact form today — and reclaim a warm, worry-free home?

By agreeing to this, I agree to receiving updates about our services, promotions, special offers, news and events from Infinity ProServ Ltd (T/a Infinity Home Services) and any sister companies.

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In Squirrel Awareness Month, we look at the impact squirrels can have for homeowners, and how you can manage effective squirrel pest control.

Squirrel Awareness Month: What Every Homeowner Should Know About Squirrel Pest Control

Written by David on . Posted in Uncategorised.

Squirrel Awareness Month: What Every Homeowner Should Know About Squirrel Pest Control

Squirrel Awareness Month gives homeowners a timely reminder to check their roofs and lofts — especially when it comes to squirrel pest control. Even though squirrels are often seen as charming garden visitors, when they invade our houses the consequences can be serious. In North Essex, South Suffolk, and across the UK, pests in the loft are a rising concern—and Infinity Home Services understands how distressing it can be when those once-cute creatures start causing damage indoors.

In Squirrel Awareness Month, we look at the impact squirrels can have for homeowners, and how you can manage effective squirrel pest control.

Why “Squirrel Awareness Month” Matters to Homeowners

The Rising Grey Squirrel Population

Grey squirrels are often classed as pests in the UK thanks to their increasing numbers and the damage they cause.  Since their introduction from the United States in the late 19th Century, they have had a dramatic effect on ecosystems, almost entirely destroying our native red squirrel populations throughout the UK. To a lesser extent, squirrel populations can be known to have a negative impact on bird numbers also.

Recent surveys suggest that grey squirrels now occupy about 69% of sites in England, up from 62% the previous year, putting pressure on native species and increasing encounters with homes.

Because their population is growing, the chances of them exploring roofs, chimneys, or lofts in search of nesting sites or food are higher than ever.

Common Problems Caused by Squirrel Intrusion

Structural & Technical Damage

  • Gnawing on wires and cables: Squirrels’ continuously growing incisors cause them to chew — this puts electrical wiring at risk, potentially leading to short circuits or even fires.

  • Damage to insulation and timber: In lofts, squirrels often tear insulation materials for nesting, degrading thermal performance and possibly damaging roof timbers or battens.

  • Water pipe leaks and roof gaps: They may gnaw or dislodge flashing, fascia, or piping, opening gaps that allow moisture ingress or leaks.

  • Access points propagation: Even small gaps (in soffits, eaves, vents) can be exploited. Once entry is gained, squirrels may enlarge holes or chewed openings.

Noise, Stress & Safety Concerns

  • Noise and disturbance: Squirrels are active by day. Homeowners often report scratching, scuttling, or thumping sounds in ceilings and lofts, which can disrupt sleep and peace of mind.

  • Aggressive behaviour near nests: If startled, squirrels can act defensively, especially around offspring, creating risk for anyone entering the loft.

  • Health risks: Droppings and urine can cause odour or bacterial contamination; squirrels may also carry fleas, mites, or parasites that could spread to pets or household areas.

  • Emotional toll: Discovering wildlife in your home can be distressing. The fear of unknown damage, the cost of repair, and the stress of ongoing checks can weigh heavily on homeowners.

Why DIY Isn’t Always Enough

Many homeowners may try deterrents: ultrasonic devices, scents, bright lights — but squirrels often become accustomed to these or simply ignore them if they are already nesting.

Worse, sealing entry points too soon (while squirrels remain inside) risks trapping them — leading to panicked damage or further chewing. A professional approach is safer, more thorough, and lawful.

How Infinity Home Services Can Help

At Infinity Home Services (serving North Essex and South Suffolk), we know how to tackle squirrel intrusion with care and competence:

  1. Inspection and assessment
    Our technicians carry out a full survey — checking external rooflines, soffits, chimneys, eaves, and carrying out internal loft inspections to identify entry paths, nests, and damage.

  2. Humane exclusion and trapping
    We use exclusion devices and wildlife-approved trap methods to safely evict squirrels, while ensuring no animals are inadvertently harmed, and in compliance with legal protections.

  3. Sealing and proofing
    Once the squirrels are out, we seal up all possible entry points using materials like galvanised mesh, steel flashing, and durable roof-grade materials — preventing re-entry.

  4. Repair and remediation
    We assist in repairing damaged insulation, wiring, woodwork, and cavities — collaborating with roofers or electricians where needed to restore your loft’s structure and safety.

  5. Ongoing monitoring and advice
    After work is done, we offer follow-up checks and preventive advice (such as trimming tree branches, managing food attractants, routine roof checks) to keep your home squirrel-free.

Squirrel Awareness Month: Action Checklist for Homeowners

  • Inspect your loft and roofline monthly for signs of entry (chew marks, shredded insulation, droppings)

  • Trim tree limbs or shrubs that touch your roof — squirrels often launch from branches

  • Ensure vents, flues, and chimney crowns are screened or capped

  • Avoid placing bird feeders too close to walls or eaves

  • If you hear noise or suspect intrusion, act early — damage compounds quickly

Conclusion

Squirrel Awareness Month is more than just a seasonal reminder — it’s a prompt to protect your home from a surprisingly destructive pest. Squirrels tucked away in your loft may seem harmless until they cause structural damage, insulation loss, fire risk, or disruption. While DIY deterrents might offer some short-term relief, comprehensive inspection, humane removal, and proofing are best left to professionals to ensure effective squirrel pest control.

Contact Us

If you suspect squirrels are entering your loft or causing problems, don’t wait until the damage is costly. Call us today on 0800 148 8088 or fill in our contact form below and we’ll arrange a prompt inspection and bespoke solution tailored to your home?

By agreeing to this, I agree to receiving updates about our services, promotions, special offers, news and events from Infinity ProServ Ltd (T/a Infinity Home Services) and any sister companies.

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If you're suffering with water quality issues such as rusty water or limescale, find out more here, or contact Infinity Home Services.

Home Water Quality Concerns: Why Clean Water Matters

Written by David on . Posted in Uncategorised.

Home Water Quality Concerns: Why Clean Water Matters This August

Ensuring home water quality concerns are addressed safely and promptly is vital for every household—and nowhere is this more important than during National Water Quality Month in August.

As homeowners in North Essex and South Suffolk, you deserve peace of mind knowing your water is safe—from what comes out of your taps to what runs through your pipes. Below are some of the most significant water quality problems affecting UK households today—and how we at Infinity Home Services can help protect your family.

If you're suffering with water quality issues such as rusty water or limescale, find out more here, or contact Infinity Home Services.

The Hidden Issues Behind Home Water Quality Concerns

1. Perception vs. Reality: Trust and Taste

A recent TAPP Water survey found that 42% of UK residents don’t trust or like the taste of tap water, with only 36% of Londoners drinking straight from the tap. Overall, 38% believe bottled water is healthier—highlighting a strong customer concern that trusted providers like us can help alleviate.

2. Hard Water Hassles

Most parts of England, including regions east of a line between Severn and Tees, endure ‘very hard’ water, often exceeding 200 ppm calcium carbonate. Hard water can damage appliances, leave limescale, and affect soap performance.

3. Chemical Pollution in Rivers

Earthwatch volunteers discovered that 67% of samples from England’s rivers contained unacceptably high phosphates and nitrates, while every tested sample contained caffeine—a wake-up call about untreated sewage and chemical pollutants entering water sources.

4. Recreational Water Risks

According to The Guardian England has an estimated 3,347 water recreation spots, yet only 451 official bathing sites are monitored—and merely 20% of swimming areas have nearby testing. This leaves the majority of swimmers potentially exposed to pollution. 

5. Ecological Decline

Only 16% of England’s assessed surface waters achieve a good ecological status; hazardous chemical status is at 0% good, posing risks to ecosystems and raising concerns for households relying on boreholes or private water sources.

Human Impacts: More Than Just Pipes and Tests

  • Health concerns: Pollutants like antibiotics, caffeine, and phosphates may affect vulnerable individuals, including children and the elderly.

  • Lifestyle disruptions: Fish kills due to hot, polluted rivers—87 incidents reported this spring—can erode confidence in local recreational water sources.

  • Community worry: When trust in tap water falters, bottled water use rises—raising both cost and environmental concerns.

How Infinity Home Services Can Help—Especially This August

This National Water Quality Month, it’s the perfect time to take action:

  • Water quality testing: We can assess your home’s water—checking for hardness, contaminants, taste issues, and supply integrity.

  • Filter and plumbing solutions: From installing water filters to replacing corroded pipes, we ensure clean, palatable water throughout your home.

  • Advising on system upgrades: If your property uses private supplies or has ageing infrastructure, we guide you toward sustainable improvements.

With Infinity Home Services serving households across North Essex and South Suffolk, we’re your local experts in ensuring safe, reliable drinking water—especially when awareness is at its peak in August.

Conclusion

As National Water Quality Month reminds us, clean water is the foundation of healthy, happy homes. Whether it’s hard water damage, concerns about taste or chemicals, or anxiety over unmonitored recreational sites, the solution often begins at the tap—and your plumbing. Infinity Home Services is here to provide local, trusted support tailored to your home’s needs. Ready to take control of your home water quality concerns this August—and beyond?

Contact Us

Noticing brown water, strange tastes, or stubborn limescale? Contact Infinity Home Services today and let our local experts get your tap water back to crystal-clear quality. Simply call 0800 148 8088 or complete the form below and we can resolve all your issues quickly.

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Suffering changes to your way of life can always be tricky. Sometimes disabled home adaptations such as wet rooms or ramps can offer you comfort and a sensible way of making life much easier.

A Home for Every Ability: An Overview of Disabled Home Adaptations

Written by David on . Posted in Uncategorised.

A Home for Every Ability: An Overview of Disabled Home Adaptations

As the UK population ages and more people live with long-term conditions, disabled home adaptations are becoming an essential part of everyday living. Whether temporary or permanent, these adaptations can help people stay in their homes safely, comfortably, and independently.

But for many homeowners, understanding what’s available – and how to start – can be confusing. This article provides an overview of the types of adaptations available, why people need them, and some of the common challenges involved.

Suffering changes to your way of life can always be tricky. Sometimes disabled home adaptations such as wet rooms or ramps can offer you comfort and a sensible way of making life much easier.

What Are Disabled Home Adaptations?

Disabled home adaptations are changes made to a property to make it more accessible for someone with mobility, sensory, or cognitive impairments. These modifications can range from small adjustments, like installing grab rails, to larger renovations such as creating level-access showers or widening doorways.

Common adaptations include:

  • Ramps and handrails for easier access

  • Stairlifts or through-floor lifts for multi-level homes

  • Wet rooms and accessible bathrooms

  • Lowered kitchen units or adjustable worktops

  • Smart technology for lighting, heating, and door entry systems

Adaptations may be temporary, such as when recovering from surgery, or long-term to support progressive conditions or permanent disabilities.

Why Homeowners Need Them

According to the Family Resources Survey (DWP, 2023), around 24% of the UK population lives with a disability – and most of those people live in ordinary homes, not specialist housing. For many, disabled adaptations make the difference between staying independent at home and needing residential care.

But the reasons for adaptation go beyond mobility. Some individuals need visual or hearing enhancements, while others may require support for neurodivergent conditions or age-related cognitive decline. Every person’s needs – and every home – are different.

Navigating the Challenges

While adaptations are life-changing, the process isn’t always straightforward:

  • Funding: Many homeowners don’t realise they may be eligible for a Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) through their local council, which can fund up to £30,000 of work in England. However, applying can feel bureaucratic and slow.

  • Design Limitations: Older or smaller homes often pose challenges, especially when space is tight or structural work is needed to accommodate things like hoists or bathroom conversions.

  • Lack of Awareness: Some homeowners delay adaptations because they don’t know what’s possible or assume the options are clinical and unattractive. In reality, many modern adaptations can blend seamlessly into a stylish home design.

How Infinity Home Services Can Help

At Infinity Home Services, we support homeowners in North Essex and South Suffolk by providing practical, personalised solutions for disabled home adaptations. From the first conversation to the final installation, we aim to reduce stress and improve quality of life. Alongside the main business, our sister company Infinity Wetrooms focuses solely on this side of adaptations/improvements.

Whether you’re planning ahead or dealing with an urgent need, our team works with you to design adaptations that are functional, futureproof, and feel like home.

Planning for Dignity, Comfort, and Independence

Disabled home adaptations are more than just modifications – they’re investments in freedom, comfort, and dignity. By understanding what’s available and working with experienced professionals, homeowners can make empowered choices that support every stage of life.

Is it time to make your home work better for you or someone you love?

If Infinity Home Services can assist you in any way, please drop us a line using the form below, or by calling our team on 0800 148 8088.

By agreeing to this, I agree to receiving updates about our services, promotions, special offers, news and events from Infinity ProServ Ltd (T/a Infinity Home Services) and any sister companies.

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