The Snowik Blog

Boosting Energy Efficiency with Modern Smart Installations

Thu, 26 Sep 2024 09:38:19 GMT

Technology saving energy

Boosting Energy Efficiency with Modern Smart Installations

In today's world, energy efficiency is more than just a buzzword—it's a necessity. As energy costs rise and environmental concerns grow, both homeowners and businesses are increasingly looking for ways to reduce their energy consumption. One of the most effective methods to achieve this is through modern smart installations.

What Are Smart Installations?

Smart installations refer to the integration of advanced technology into your home or business infrastructure to optimize energy use. These systems often include smart thermostats, lighting, appliances, and HVAC systems, all of which can be controlled remotely via smartphones, tablets, or computers. They are designed to learn your habits, automatically adjust settings, and provide real-time data, making energy management easier and more efficient.

The Energy Efficiency Benefits

Precision Control: Smart systems allow you to control your energy usage with pinpoint accuracy. For example, smart thermostats learn your schedule and adjust the temperature automatically, ensuring that energy is not wasted when no one is home. This can significantly reduce your heating and cooling costs.
Real-Time Monitoring: With smart installations, you can monitor your energy usage in real-time. This allows you to identify patterns and areas where energy is being wasted, enabling you to make adjustments that can lead to significant savings.
Automated Energy Savings: Many smart systems come with automation features that can turn off lights, adjust thermostats, or power down appliances when they’re not in use. This automation reduces the likelihood of human error, such as forgetting to turn off the lights, which can contribute to energy waste.
Energy Consumption Reports: Smart devices often provide detailed reports on your energy consumption. These insights can help you make informed decisions about how to further improve energy efficiency. For instance, you might discover that your old refrigerator is a major energy hog and decide to upgrade to a more efficient model.
Integration with Renewable Energy: Smart installations can be integrated with renewable energy sources like solar panels. This allows you to optimize the use of green energy, storing excess power during peak production times and using it when production is low, further enhancing your energy efficiency.
Reduced Carbon Footprint: By optimizing energy use, smart installations not only save you money but also reduce your carbon footprint. This is particularly important for businesses looking to meet sustainability goals or homeowners wanting to contribute to a healthier planet.

The Future of Smart Energy

As technology continues to evolve, the capabilities of smart installations will only increase. Future advancements may include even more intuitive systems that can predict your energy needs based on weather forecasts or integrate seamlessly with smart grids to optimize energy use on a community or national level.

Conclusion

Investing in modern smart installations is a smart choice for anyone looking to boost energy efficiency. Whether you're a homeowner wanting to cut down on energy bills or a business aiming to meet sustainability targets, these systems offer a range of benefits that make energy management simpler, more effective, and more environmentally friendly. As we move towards a more energy-conscious future, smart installations will undoubtedly play a crucial role in helping us all reduce our energy consumption and protect our planet.

The Importance of Using Professional Tradespeople

When it comes to maintaining, renovating, or improving your property, the temptation to cut corners by using unqualified individuals or attempting DIY solutions can be strong. However, the benefits of employing professional tradespeople far outweigh the potential savings. Whether it's plumbing, electrical work, or carpentry, professionals bring a level of expertise and assurance that is difficult to match.

Expertise and Experience

Professional tradespeople have undergone rigorous training and possess years of experience in their respective fields. This means they have the knowledge and skills to tackle complex problems and deliver high-quality work. Their experience allows them to anticipate and resolve issues that may not be immediately apparent, ensuring that the job is done right the first time.

Compliance with Standards and Regulations

In the UK, there are strict building codes and regulations that must be adhered to when carrying out any construction or maintenance work. Professional tradespeople are well-versed in these standards, ensuring that all work is compliant. This not only guarantees safety but also protects you from potential legal issues or fines that could arise from non-compliance.

Quality and Durability

One of the key advantages of using professional tradespeople is the quality of their work. Professionals use the best materials and techniques, ensuring that the finished product is durable and long-lasting. This means fewer repairs and lower maintenance costs in the long run, providing better value for money.

Safety

Safety is paramount in any construction or maintenance project. Professional tradespeople are trained to follow strict safety protocols, minimising the risk of accidents and injuries on site. They are also fully insured, giving you peace of mind knowing that any unforeseen incidents will be covered.

Time and Cost Efficiency

While it may seem more cost-effective to do the work yourself or hire someone cheaply, this can often lead to costly mistakes and delays. Professional tradespeople work efficiently, completing projects on time and within budget. Their expertise helps to prevent errors that could result in additional expenses down the line.

Accountability and Guarantees

Reputable tradespeople offer guarantees on their work, providing you with recourse if something goes wrong. This accountability is something you won’t get with an unqualified individual. Should issues arise, a professional will be more likely to return and correct the problem, often at no extra cost.

Professional Advice and Solutions

Professionals not only complete the job at hand but can also offer valuable advice on how to maintain or improve your property. They can provide insights into the latest materials, techniques, and trends, helping you make informed decisions that enhance the value and functionality of your property.

Conclusion

When it comes to maintaining your property, cutting corners is rarely worth the risk. Employing professional tradespeople ensures that the work is completed to a high standard, complies with regulations, and is safe. While it might be tempting to save money in the short term, the long-term benefits of using professionals far outweigh the initial investment, making it a wise choice for any homeowner or business

Six Benefits of Air Conditioning for Home and Office Comfort

Tue, 07 Feb 2023 10:58:49 GMT

According to the Met Office national climate series from 1884 to the present, the year 2022 was the 4th hottest summer for daily average temperature for the UK overall.

Dozens of locations across the country have also set new daily maximum temperature records. Out of which, seven locations have hit or even surpassed the recorded temperature of 40 degrees Celsius.

However, heat can cause a severe threat to human life, which is why it is important to consider the use of air conditioning in your London home or office.

Better air quality

Air conditioning is a brilliant way of improving ventilation and controlling your home’s temperature. It works by circulating and filtering the air. Improper air ventilation can become a hazard to your health due to dust and bacteria. This can lead to cough, cold, headache and fatigue.

Better quality sleep

One of the biggest causes of sleep disturbance in the summer months is overheating, as the heat interferes with your body’s natural temperature regulation. Although fans provide some relief, they are simply circulating stale, warm air. Air conditioning lowers your body temperature and allows for a more restful sleep.

Reduced possibility of asthma attacks

Air conditioning units filter the dirty air containing dust mites, pollutants or allergens. Air conditioning units can also eliminate dampness thereby reducing the risk of mould forming in the home. Eliminating the dirty air greatly reduces the chances of an asthma attack. It is especially important to change the air filters regularly to achieve the most out of your air conditioning unit.

Reduced risk of dehydration and heat stroke

When we sweat, a large amount of our water intake is lost, resulting in dehydration. Extreme temperatures also cause heat stroke. According to the CCRA3 Technical Report, the number of heat-related deaths in the UK could increase to 7,040 deaths per year by 2050. Both dehydration and heat stroke can be prevented by air conditioning.

Fewer insects and parasites

Air conditioners are a fantastic way of reducing the risk of insects and parasites. Insects like warm, damp climates which, can be eliminated with air conditioning. A cooler body temperature helps to avoid bites from mosquitos and other insects. A good air conditioner can also help to keep indoor pets free of ticks and fleas.

Home security

Air conditioning eliminates the need to leave windows and doors open, reducing the risk of break-ins and theft in your home.

Read more about our Air Conditioning Installation services here . Want to know more, then get in touch with our team . We offer a wide range of services at Snowik right across London , and our experience engineers are always on hand to install, repair, and maintain your air conditioning unit.

Expert Tips for Transforming Your London Home Effectively

Mon, 12 Sep 2022 08:10:45 GMT

There are well over three million homes in London .

If you’re lucky enough to live in the capital, you may feel that your property is in need of an overhaul.

When these feelings come over you, the thought of performing a full renovation may feel daunting.

Luckily, our team at Snowik contains experts in a number of different trades that can take your house from feeling old and worn to something modern and new.

Sounds like something you’re interested in?

Why Should you Undergo a London House Refurbishment

There are plenty of reasons why undergoing a home renovation can benefit you and your life, including:

· Improved Way of Living – once the renovation is complete, you have what will feel like a brand-new home and it will be designed in a way that you choose. This will undoubtedly add many benefits to the way you live and leave you much happier at home.

· Save Money in the Long Run – Old houses can be lacking in energy efficiency. With a restoration, you will be bringing in many new appliances and adding new features, such as double glazing, insulation, electricals, and boilers. With these, you may find you save lots of money and use much less energy over the years in your renovated property.

· Make Your Home Safer – If your home is looking tired and hasn’t had much repair work done in the last few years, a full renovation can increase the safety of your home. Electrics will be newly fitted and tested, the structure will be tested, and much more to increase the durability and safety of your home.

· Increase the Value of Your Home - Renovating your home can add a lot of value onto the property. A recent study found adding a modern bathroom or kitchen can increase the valve of the project by 10% , and a new heating system by 10% which can make undergoing a full home renovation a great investment.

What is Needed for a Full Home Transformation?

So, you have read the above and decided that you may fancy completely revamping your home. What needs to take place for this to happen?

Well, the list is quite long, but here are some key components of a London home restoration.

Building Work

What often goes hand in hand with home renovations, is extensions. Whether adding a conservatory, extending a kitchen, or renovating loft space, this all requires building work to be carried out to a high, professional level.

Windows and Doors

Windows and doors are key features that can age a home and end up costing you in terms of energy. New double-glazed windows , new doors, and new window fittings are often a key part of a renovation and while the cost may be high, they can save you money and keep your home warmer in the long run, as well as look really good.

New Flooring

A new floor can make a huge difference to a building. From installing carpet and laminate flooring to tiled flooring and real wood, the process of removing the current flooring and installing a new one has to be performed by a professional or else you may get issues down the line.

New Appliances

If you’re ripping out a kitchen and starting again, then you’re going to want a new oven, dishwasher, sink, and more. Appliances such as heating systems and smart home systems can add a big boost to a home when installed properly and used to their maximum effect.

Plumbing and Electrics

When adding and installing new appliances and features, you must make sure all water , gas , and electrics are also installed correctly. If not, you may put your health at risk as well as your home. Water leaks, gas leaks, and electric shocks can cause big damage so having professionals carry out the work and provide the right certificates is vital.

Decoration

One of the final steps of a home renovation is decoration . Painting walls, adding furniture, and adding features such as art make a huge difference in a home, and this is the part where an owner can really leave their mark on a property (and can also boost the value even further).

Home Renovation Tips

If you’re looking to renovate your home, here are three top tips to keep in mind to make sure you get the perfect results for you.

1. Choose Your Budget Wisely – The last thing you want to do is reach a point in the renovation where you can’t spend any more. By picking a budget you know you can afford, you allow yourself some wriggle room in case something goes wrong, and you ensure your project is realistic from the start.

2. Pick the Perfect Team to Help – Spend a lot of time choosing which team will take your project forward. You are putting a lot of trust in this team, so make sure they have the right contractors for the job and also share a similar vision for your project. If you feel comfortable discussing the project with your chosen team, it will be much easier to discuss things further down the line.

3. Speak with the Team Doing the Work – At the end of the day, this is your home that is being renovated. This means that you must have some input. While you may not be able to do the work, you should certainly be available when needed to direct the team and to speak with the project manager on how you want the final result to look.

Snowik Projects

At Snowik , we have a team of very experienced engineers who work together to complete home renovations in London.

We have carried out many of these projects, including this entire house refurbishment in Surrey , completely modernising the bathroom, kitchen, and beyond, whilst also adding a loft conversion, a new roof, a new garden, and a new driveway.

We also did a similar job in this Knightsbridge restoration , which included a new heating system, limestone flooring, as well as bespoke joinery work on new fittings throughout.

But it’s not always whole homes that need a revamp. We also do single floors and apartments, such as transforming this Knightsbridge cellar into a fully fitted apartment, with an en-suite bathroom, a new kitchen, and a brand new design which managed to maintain the property’s historical nature.

We work on apartments that cover various floors, including turning apartments into luxury home such as this four bed Knightsbridge renovation and this top-floor, two-story flat restoration in Chelsea .

Both of these posed many challenges, but the final result was a high-end, fully-equipped property right in the heart of London that the new owners were sure to love.

And for something a bit different, we carried out a complete redesign of this apartment in Chelsea , adding new acoustic flooring, a luxury bathroom and kitchen, and a complete re-stain of the oak flooring already in place.

We cover many bases on each project, and don’t leave a project until we know everything has been signed off as safe, and the customer is delighted with the end result.

Let Us Transform Your Home

If you’re looking to renovate a new home, or your existing one, get in touch with the team at Snowik today.

Whether for a quick chat about your project, or a free no-obligation quote, we would love to hear from you.

7 Property Maintenance Challenges in London and Solutions

Mon, 12 Sep 2022 07:52:10 GMT

When you’re living in a property, you get used to every nook and cranny of the building.

If you’ve been living in the home for a while, you will know it like the back of your hand, and this means you quickly pick up when something is wrong.

Some issues are obvious, such as when you’re standing under the shower and the water is freezing cold or when you’re suddenly plunged into darkness as the lights simultaneously turn off.

Some are not so obvious, such as damp growing in a hidden corner of a room and drains that aren’t flowing properly.

London Property Maintenance

Your issue may need dealing with in the next few hours , or the next few weeks, but all need fixing.

Many property maintenance issues require much more than a bit of DIY, and that’s where Snowik come in.

We offer property maintenance in London and have engineers and contractors ready to be at your home the day you get in touch.

We know how worrying it can be when something goes wrong in your home, and that’s why we’ve created this handy guide on seven common property maintenance issues and how we can help.

Let’s take a look.

1. The Boiler has Broken

When a boiler breaks, it needs dealing with quickly, especially in the winter when having a warm home is a necessity.

But this is easier said than done.

The average life of a boiler is around ten to fifteen years, so if you’ve been living in a home for a long time, then you will face the prospect of needing a new boiler.

There are many issues that can occur to boilers such as leaks of water or gas caused by damaged pipework or faulty seals that lead to low pressure and a dangerous environment (in the case of gas).

At Snowik, we have gas and heating engineers who are experts in dealing with boiler breakdowns, regular maintenance and boiler services, as well as HIU and FCU systems .

If you have noticed your boiler is making strange sounds, your heating isn’t working as it should, or you can smell gas, it is vital you get in touch with an engineer quickly who can fix any problems and make sure your appliance is safe.

2. Your Drains are Blocked

One of the worse issues to have is blocked drains.

Either from your toilet, bath, shower, or sink, if water is not flowing freely and waste is not being extracted as it should, you will soon find your house turns a bit smelly.

Blocked drains can be quick to deal with or can be a much bigger problem, depending on the size of the blockage and how deep it is in the pipework.

So, how can you fix it?

Well, you can try and fix it yourself by pouring boiling water down, using a plunger, or using a shop-bought drain unblocker, but for big stoppages, this won’t do the trick.

In this case, you will need to call a professional team such as Snowik .

With drains, it is often hard to really see the issue. Our team of experts has the tools and capabilities to carry out a full CCTV survey to catch a clear sight of the problem and get to action right away on all drainage systems, from guttering to manholes.

If a blocked drain is left unfixed, the blockage will only grow and the job will only get bigger, so it’s vital you act quickly and get your water flowing freely again.

3. You’ve got a Leak

Over time things wear down.

If the seals on your pipework are coming loose, this can cause leaks.

Some leaks can be small, such as small drips every few minutes, or some can be big and can cause a lot of damage quickly.

In both cases, a repair needs to be made as soon as possible.

When water gets in between walls and covers floors, your property then becomes very susceptible to damp and rot.

This can cause major issues down the line.

So, what should you do if you experience a leak?

Well, the first step should be to try and stop the water flow by turning off the water intake to your house. The quicker you do this, the less damage that will be caused.

After this, you need to get a plumber out who can locate the faulty pipework and replace the issue area.

Once fixed, the plumber will perform a test to check the seal is watertight, and that your problem is solved.

4. You’ve got a Pile of Rubbish and Nowhere to Take It

Home improvements can lead to a lot of mess.

If you are finding your waste piling up and taking over your garden, you may be worrying about what to do next.

A build-up of waste over time can cause many issues, including killing your garden that is buried underneath it and also leading to smells and a build-up of dust and dirt.

An issue with waste removal is how to keep it ethical and environmentally friendly when there is a large mound of it.

If this sounds familiar, then you need Snowik’s waste removal service .

We can arrange a one-off or regular collections that are always disposed of responsibly.

If you are a business that amasses a lot of waste, or someone struggling with a personal waste pile that can’t be removed by the council, then you need to find a way to remove it before it becomes a problem, and the quicker you remove it the better.

5. You’ve Spotted Damp and Mould

We hinted on damp issues earlier, but they are such a big issue that they deserve their own section.

Damp isn’t always caused by leaking pipes, but more often is caused by excess moisture in the air. In bathrooms and kitchens where condensation is rife, this moisture needs somewhere to escape, such as an extractor fan. If it has nowhere, it leads to damp and mould forming.

There are many issues which lead to moisture being in the air, such as something as simple as the change in temperature from night to day.

So, how can you spot these issues? Well, if your walls are bare, you may see the unmistakable black signs of mould, but you should also look for musty smells, peeling paintwork and wallpaper that is bubbling or coming loose.

There are two types of damp, rising and penetrating, and these need to be treated differently.

Rising damp starts from the floor and ground level and works up. Suitable and correct rising damp prevention methods must be carried out by quailed contractors to successfully eliminate the rising damp issue. Penetrating damp is often gained through a leak, and to fix this the structure causing the issues must be replaced.

These can range from small to very large jobs, so it is always wise to get a professional, such as the team at Snowik , to come and assess the damage, find the problem area, and fix any issues.

6. Your Roof is Damaged

A damaged roof can cause lots of problems.

Depending on the material of your roof, the lifespan may be very different. If you have a slate roof for instance, this should last for 100 years or more. A felt roof may not last for a fifth of this.

Different roofs can have different issues, so it’s vital you learn what to look out for to spot the signs of damage. For flat roofs, you may get bubbling and blistering, and issues with thermal expansion which leads to cracks.

For pitched roofs, you may be susceptible to cracked tiles which lead to holes in your roof.

All of these need fixing as the smallest hole in a roof can lead to wind and water getting underneath and causing damage to the structure of your home.

So, what are the signs that your roof is damaged?

Well, if you are seeing damp patches from water breaking through, hearing a high-pitched whistling sound, or noticing patches of light breaking through your roof, these are clear signs that there is a hole and these must be dealt with.

Roofs can be hard to visually inspect safely, so that’s why it’s vital you consult professionals to assess and fix your roof in the safest and most efficient way possible.

At Snowik, our roofing contractors are comfortable with a wide range of roofing materials and can do everything, from replacing a single tile to installing a whole new roof. All works are performed by fully qualified Snowik engineers and are covered by Snowik warranty in some cases lasting up to 20 years for new roofs installation - subject to the type of the roof.

7. You’ve Got No Electricity

Ever been enjoying a film and all of a sudden everything goes black?

Looks like something has gone wrong with your electricity.

Sometimes this is an issue with a fuse, which can be a relatively simple fix, but there may be a bigger problem.

If the rest of your street is still lit up, then the problem is just within your home, so you must locate the issue and get it fixed as with no electricity your freezer will defrost, you will have no light, and in many cases, alarms may be going off.

The key thing to remember with electricity is that it can be extremely dangerous to handle if you don’t know what you’re looking for.

Instead of taking any risks, it is vital that you entrust a professional electrician who can be out quickly and can locate and fix your problems efficiently.

At Snowik, we work with commercial and domestic properties to ensure blackouts last for the shortest amount of time possible. Safety is paramount for our electrical engineers , and that’s why we waste no time in getting out to you and getting your appliances back running.

We even work with specialist smart home systems such as Lutron and Crestron , so can fix and maintain these appliances as well.

Our Contractors in London

Whether you’re looking for regular maintenance or an emergency engineer, Snowik is the team for you .

We have skilled contractors in a wide range of industries who can be on your doorstep the very day you get in touch.

With many property maintenance issues, speed is key, so making sure the problem is dealt with efficiently is vital.

If you need us, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team .

We hope you don’t experience any of these issues, but in the unfortunate case that you do, we are here to help.

The Ultimate Guide to Heating and Cooling Engineer Services

Wed, 20 Jul 2022 13:18:41 GMT

At Snowik , we have a range of skilled engineers in a variety of trades

From working with smart home systems to installing kitchens and bathrooms , the breadth of our team knows no bounds.

Another key element of our service is our heating engineers .

Whether you need an instant response and you’re looking for reactive heating maintenance, or you need an appliance installed and maintained, one of our team is able to help.

And this can be a very valuable service, especially in the colder and hotter months of the year.

The Importance of Heating Maintenance

There aren’t many things more important to keep healthy than your heating appliance.

When winter rolls around and the temperatures drop below freezing, and in summer when the temperature ramps up, it is vital that your heating equipment is healthy as a breakdown can have serious consequences.

Not only your heating, but things like hot water often come through this appliance which is also hugely important to many people.

And that’s not the only reason regular maintenance and professional installation are essential, you also can:

· Prevent Breakdowns from Occurring – There are things our engineers can spot, such as leaks and drips that if unnoticed may lead to a full breakdown. With regular services, you can spot these things before they lead into bigger problems and fix them quickly.

· Keep Your Appliance Working for Longer – A healthy appliance can provide a great service for much longer. This is because little niggles can be fixed, and all of the parts are sure to always be oiled and kept to a good standard.

· Save Money Long Term – While regular maintenance may cost you in the short term, it definitely pays for itself in the long run. This is because not only is the life of your appliance prolonged, but it also operates better so may be more energy efficient than it would be without being checked.

HIU Systems

One of the main systems we work with at Snowik are HIU systems.

This isn’t any ordinary piece of equipment, and our team are all professionally trained to deal with HIU systems and have built up years of experience in doing so.

What is a HIU System?

HIU stands for heat interface unit , and often works as part of a heating network.

This makes a HIU system a great choice for landlords who occupy many properties within one building.

Heat is spread to each property through pipework that runs through the building, and all each property needs to have is a small interface which they can use to amend their heating and hot water temperature.

Is a HIU System Better Than a Traditional Boiler?

When used in the example above, then definitely.

Each individual property no longer requires a large boiler and efficiency is boosted by the fact that one system that can be regularly serviced and maintained can spread the energy around in a super-efficient way.

It’s also a really simple way of providing energy to your tenants and should minimise the risk of individual issues that occur.

What Does HIU Maintenance Consist Of?

There are two areas that may need checking on a HIU system.

Firstly, there is the interface. If several individual properties have their own unit, then these will all need checking and resetting.

A good timescale for this is annually, or when a tenant moves out which is a always a good time to undertake property maintenance for landlords .

The second part that may need repairing and maintaining is the communal system. This is often located in a plant room and will need checking annually for anything that is looking worn or damaged.

An issue here could affect the full building, so it is vital the communal appliance is well cared for and any issues are dealt with quickly.

FCU Systems

Other systems that we regularly work with are FCU appliances. These are cool air appliances, and are ideal for commercial properties who want to give their customers a blast of cold air as they step inside a building.

Again, this works differently to a normal boiler and requires specific training to be maintained, installed, and repaired.

What is an FCU System?

FCU stands for fan coil unit , and like a HIU system, air is spread from a communal hub.

What is unique about an FCU system, is that there is a coil inside it that can cool down the air flowing through it.

As the air passes by the coil, the temperature is altered, and it is pushed out into the room below.

This makes an FCU system ideal for short-range bursts of cool air.

For landlords, this can also be handy, as the range on an FCU system can be more than enough to alter the temperature of a small flat and keep things cool in a hot climate.

The Difference Between an FCU System and a Boiler

A fan coiled unit is very different to a boiler.

Whereas a boiler may increase the heat of a property through pipework, an FCU system shoots straight into the air with the help of fans.

This can make it much quicker to cool down a room and can make the point at which is being altered much more specific.

What Does FCU Maintenance Consist Of?

Much like HIU maintenance, with an FCU, you have different individual appliances to deal with. A building may contain several different appliances that all need to be checked, as well as any communal system.

Again, a good choice for regular servicing is annually, but it is wise to get in touch quickly if you notice anything wrong.

While not as pressing as boiler or HIU issues, as there may be other appliances that can help out in the meantime, having a reactive maintenance team like Snowik who are able to help quickly can be vital in getting your systems back up and running in no time.

SNOWIK REACTIVE MAINTENANCE AND HEATING AND COOLING ENGINEERS

If you use a HIU or an FCU system for your heating and cooling needs, and you’re looking for a maintenance and repair team in London who are professionally trained and packed with experience working with these appliances, then look no further than Snowik . We have a heating and an air conditioning installation in London team who would be happy to help.

For regular servicing, installation, or emergency repairs, we have you covered.

If you would like to set up these services, or just want a quick chat about what we can offer, get in touch today .

Our Smart Home System Service

Tue, 12 Jul 2022 11:11:29 GMT

At Snowik , we have a wide range of services that we can offer our customers.

From performing regular handyman jobs to fitting brand new kitchens and bathrooms , no job is too big or too small for our team.

One of the services that we can provide that not all London property maintenance teams can, is repairs and installation of smart home systems .

These have been growing in popularity in recent years, and there are plenty of reasons why.

THE BENEFITS OF A SMART HOME SYSTEM

It can Add Value to Your Home

A smart home isn’t just great for the user, but it can also add plenty of value onto your home.

In fact, a study found that 86% of millennials would pay more for a connected home .

That’s a huge number of people willing to pay higher for a home with a smart system already set up.

While the initial outlay can be costly, installing a smart home system to your property should be seen as a great investment.

It Saves energy

The beauty of a smart home system is that you don’t need to waste any electricity. Systems like Lutron, have mechanisms that allow you to dim lights so as not to use so much energy and even sensors that turn off the lights when no one is in the room.

Over £4 billion is spent in the UK on electricity that is used when lights have been left on , and the average yearly cost for someone who regularly leaves lights on is a whopping £838.66.

That’s a lot of money that can be saved just by having a system that will turn them off for you.

It is Convenient

What is better than having complete control of many electrical functions of your home, without having to move off the sofa?

Through handheld devices and applications, you can perform actions such as dimming lights, turning up the heating, and much more.

Want a warm, lit-up house when you get in after a long day at work? With a smart home system, this is possible in a few taps of your phone or tablet.

Snowik’s Smart Home Systems

Now you know the many great features that smart home systems can offer, it’s time to discuss just how Snowik can help with the installation, repairs, and resetting of your system.

Let’s quickly run through just what these contain.

Installation

Installing a smart home system isn’t easy.

There are often many different trades involved in attaching the system to all of the necessary applications.

For example, if you want your system to work with your boiler, you will need a plumber . To attach it to things such as lighting and speakers, you will need to find an electrician .

At Snowik , we have a team of engineers who can cover all of these trades and more, making us a one-stop-shop for your London smart home system installation.

Repairs

Things break down.

While regular maintenance can certainly prolong the life of an appliance and keep it running smoothly for much longer, there’s no guarantee that one day things won’t go wrong.

What is important when you do have a breakdown is that you have a reactive maintenance team who can send a tradesman to you immediately.

If your system is stopping your lights or boiler from working, this needs to be fixed quickly, so having a team who can provide the needed service straight away can be a big plus.

Resetting

When you move into a home that already has a smart home system set up, it may need resetting.

This is the process of removing all of the data and automations that are already attached to the device.

While some home set-ups are fine, some people may have the lights coming on at 6 AM for an early morning wake-up call.

This isn’t ideal if you love a lie-in, so having a team who can reset all of the features to suit you, rather than the previous owner, is vital.

Lutron

One of the smart home system providers that we work with is Lutron .

Lutron really focuses on light control, and when you consider that lighting accounts for roughly 10% of the average household electricity bill , you can see why.

Compatible with many different forms of lighting, such as LED and fluorescent, you can set up a wide range of different effects, including lighting for entertainment, or dimmed lighting.

All of these can be done on a number of different devices, ranging from smartphones to tablets and even handheld controls that can be attached to a wall.

Not only does a Lutron smart home system provide many benefits both environmentally and financially, but it can also help to provide a lovely setting for a home.

London Smart Home System Maintenance

At Snowik , we have a team of specialists who can help to install, repair, and reset your smart home system.

From electricians and plumbers to handymen and drainage experts , we have all the tools needed to make your property the perfect home for you and your family.

If you’re based in London or Surrey, and you’re looking for reactive property maintenance , including anything related to smart home systems, then get in touch today .

An Essentials Tips Property Maintenance for Landlords

Tue, 05 Jul 2022 08:19:51 GMT

are you a lanlord? then you'll know the importance of property maintenance

Life can be tricky for a landlord.

With tenants coming and going, and your property in the hands of someone other than yourself, there’s no sure-fire way to stop issues from appearing.

Luckily, there are landlord maintenance services available, such as the one at Snowik .

This means a landlord can rest assured that their property is regularly maintained and cared for.

But just what does this service entail? Let’s take a look.

What Kinds of Landlords Need Property Maintenance?

Not every landlord is the same.

You may be a:

· Corporate landlord – This is when a company owns a selection of properties, often in the same building (in some cases the building has been constructed by the company for the sole purpose of renting).

· Investment Landlords – whether operating a portfolio of managed or non-managed rental units, this is a common type of landlord.

· Second Home Landlord – If someone is lucky enough to own a second home or is moving abroad but wants to keep some income coming in, they may rent out their property, which makes them a landlord.

What Maintenance are Landlords Required to Carry Out?

For nearly all landlords, a tenancy agreement will be signed when your tenant moves into the property. This is an important document as it specifies exactly what maintenance you promise to carry out.

Here are some of the things often found on this list.

Structural Repairs

Things happen to a home that are unavoidable.

Things such as cracks in walls, broken roof tiles , and damage to door frames aren’t regular occurrences, but when they do happen, they need fixing quickly before the problem gets worse.

Things like this should be checked a minimum of once a year but will probably be noticed quickly by the tenant.

Electrical Wiring

If your tenant is sat at home and all of a sudden everything goes dark, then it looks like something has gone wrong with your electrics .

Faulty electrics are not just a major inconvenience to a tenant but can also be dangerous and hold a heavy risk of fire, so they need to be checked and maintained regularly.

Heating

Especially in the colder months, a lack of heating and hot water can be dangerous.

The ability to get warm is a necessity in rented accommodation and therefore this needs to be regularly checked.

An annual boiler inspection and service should be included in the tenancy agreement as well as reactive maintenance if something does go wrong.

Checking Your Gas

Many things run on gas, from boilers to kitchen hobs, and keeping these things working is vital, so a yearly check of your gas appliances is a great way to ensure they are in good health.

Again, if something does go wrong, such as a leak, this can be really dangerous, so make sure you have a team that can come and check it quickly if you can smell gas.

Fittings and Appliances

Now this will depend on your tenancy agreement and may not contain all of your fittings but some that should be included are bathroom appliances such as toilets, sinks, and baths, as well as some kitchen appliances such as an oven and a sink.

If your landlord supplies other things such as a fridge or a washing machine, they may also be included, so make sure to check your agreement and be in the know about what your landlord has to fix in the case of something going wrong.

When Should Property Maintenance for Landlords be Carried Out?

So, now you know the kind of things you should be covering as a landlord, when is the best time to carry out the repairs?

Well, there are several different reasons for repairs, and these can affect the timeline.

· Reactive Property Maintenance – this is when something goes wrong and needs fixing quickly. Reactive maintenance is used for things that need fixing in the next 24 hours and require a lightning-quick response.

· Planned works – You may be planning to perform a fix to the roof, or you may have a day planned when you are going to check all of the appliances. This can be planned in advance and the tenant can be made aware of the works so that they are prepared.

· Void work – A great time to carry out maintenance is when a property is empty. If you have a few months of free space, you can perform some major jobs that would cause quite a disruption otherwise. If you’re looking for a renovation, then this is the perfect time.

· Between tenants – This is a critical time, as any issues that appeared in the last tenancy need to be fixed before the new one comes in. This may only be a matter of a week, so you need to get things done quickly and, more importantly, correctly.

Landlord Maintenance Services from Snowik

Snowik provide a property maintenance service for landlords that is quick and always concise.

We operate with a team of trained professionals that vary in many different roles, including heating and gas engineers, handymen, electricians, roofers, plumbers and more.

We regularly undertake full property renovations that cover all of the areas needed to care for a rental property. From bathrooms and kitchens to gardens and bedrooms, we can make sure everything is in good health and is all signed off by professional tradesmen.

We also offer reactive maintenance in London, meaning if you use us, we will be out in a flash to fix any issue that may arise. If your boiler has broken down, your washing machine is leaking, or your drains are blocked , just give us a call and there will be one of our team on the way to fix it as soon as possible.

When it comes to property maintenance, prevention is the best cure, and that’s why we also offer a regular maintenance service, in which we will perform checks of all your appliance on a set timeframe. This is often done annually, and we will provide all information and fixes that are needed to make sure your appliances are healthy and will last for a long time.

What Certification can we Provide?

We also provide professional certification, including:

· Gas safety certificates

· PAT tests

· NICEIC certificates

· Water testing

And there are many more so get in touch today to see what we can do for you.

The Benefits of Regular Maintenance for Landlords

If you’re a landlord and you’re looking for a property maintenance team in London, then Snowik is the one for you.

We are listed in the UK Business Directory and our maintenance service has plenty of benefits, including:

Peace of Mind

When something goes wrong in a home you rent out, it can be costly and stressful to get it fixed. With a landlord property maintenance team, you can feel assured that all appliances and structures are regularly checked and also know that if something does go wrong, you have a reactive maintenance team ready to jump into action.

Better Relationships with Tenants

It can cause tension when something breaks down in a tenant’s property and it takes a long time to fix. If they are without hot water or electricity for example, if you leave this too long it may cause them to leave, and you may be breaking your tenancy agreement. Regular maintenance and quick fixes are vital to maintaining a strong relationship and creating long-lasting relationships.

Keep Your Home Healthy

Everyone wants to own a healthy property, whether you’re living in it or not. A clean, safe, and secure property is not just sure to save you money long term (as it is being well kept and looked after), but it is also appealing to potential new tenants and may help raise the value of the property if you decide to sell it. A healthy home is a happy home, so keep yours in good check and you’re sure to reap the rewards.

Snowik: Property Maintenance in London

If you’re a landlord based in London, Surrey, Middlesex, or any surrounding area, and you’re looking for regular property maintenance, then why not get in touch with Snowik today ?

We’re a one-stop-shop for your maintenance needs and will be out in a flash if anything does go wrong.

No matter your problem, we have a professional who will know how to fix it and can do it in a hurry.

Don’t leave things to chance and speak to us today about how we can protect your home.

What is Reactive Maintenance?

Tue, 05 Jul 2022 07:59:47 GMT

A Guide to reactive maintenance and how it can help you

We’ve all been there.

You’ve gone to take a shower and realised the water won’t get hot.

Or you’ve noticed a funny smell coming from your drains.

You may even have been dripped on the head from a leak in your roof.

Issues with a house can happen, and when they do, what you need is reactive maintenance. This isn’t your regular maintenance (such as services and health checks), which should happen at regular intervals, but maintenance that is there to fix a new issue that has appeared.

Snowik are London reactive maintenance specialists, and that’s why we’ve created this handy guide on just what this form of repair is.

Let’s take a look.

The Importance of a Quick Reaction

As mentioned in the previous section, sometimes things happen that are out of your control.

What matters is how you deal with the situation, and in most cases the most important thing you can be is quick.

If your boiler breaks down, you need a heating and gas engineer who can be there in an instant, especially in the colder months when heating your home is essential.

If your drains are blocked, this can cause real problems, let alone a dreadful smell, so having someone who can be out that day to carry out a full assessment and clear your drains is vital.

What you need is a company like Snowik who have a team of trained professionals in a wide range of different trades who can be there in an instant to fix your problems.

If you own a business, a breakdown can cost you money. If something goes wrong inside your home, then you may be going without heating, hot water, or electricity.

This is why a quick reaction is vital to get everything back up and running as safely and as quickly as possible.

What Does Reactive Maintenance Include?

There are many reasons reactive maintenance may be needed.

Firstly, and most commonly, are breakdowns.

These can occur in any place, at any time, and in some cases are unavoidable. Regular maintenance may help to make breakdowns less frequent, but nothing can stop them for good.

So, what happens when you get a breakdown?

Well, an urgent request is sent to a reactive maintenance team who can come out and fix the item in question. That’s if it can be fixed, in some cases, the damage done to the machine means a whole new one is required.

At Snowik, we carry out repairs on many different appliances, such as HIU systems , smart home systems, as well as carrying out emergency repairs and thorough testing on all kinds of properties .

Not only that, but we also have a handyman service who can come and fix most issues in and around your property, including broken locks or fittings such as doors and shelving. We can even remove waste from your home!

There are other reasons that reactive maintenance may be required. In some cases, not all breakdowns are surprises, and many can be pre-arranged with a contingency plan in place to keep everything working while repairs are made.

While this may still have a time restraint of when the work needs to be done, it does offer the opportunity to prearrange the fix.

Reactive maintenance can also be used to fix something that isn’t yet broken. If you look at a roof and notice one of the tiles is loose. Catching it before it falls off can save a lot of work later.

Similarly, if you notice signs of wear and tear, or odd sounds and smells coming from an appliance, then you may need to get someone out to take a look. In many cases, it could be a quick fix that saves you a full breakdown later down the line.

Benefits of Reactive Maintenance

There’s no Recurring Cost

With regular maintenance, you may pay for something to be checked every six months, or every year. If you run a business, you may even employ a member of staff whose role is to carry out this maintenance.

With reactive maintenance, payment is on an as and when basis. This means that unless something happens and there is a breakdown, there are no costs.

While reactive maintenance can seem costly, it is often a one-off payment, and it could actually be better for your bank balance in the long run.

Less Strain on a Business

Looking after lots of machinery and appliances isn’t easy. If you operate a business, let’s say you run a mechanics workshop, you may spend a lot of money and use up a lot of time planning and undergoing maintenance work.

With reactive maintenance, you don’t need to have experts on the machinery you use. You also don’t need to plan out regular maintenance work.

If you have a team, such as Snowik, who can come out and fix your issues on the rare occurrence that they happen, it can remove the burden of constantly checking, which can provide a big boost to a business’ resources.

It’s a Simple Way to do It

Having a reliable reactive maintenance team who you know are only a phone call away makes things simple.

You know you have trusted and professional tradesmen who can respond quickly to fix any problems, so it can take a weight off your mind when thinking of your machinery.

The only thing you have to worry about is picking up the phone and giving us a call when something goes wrong, and we can handle the rest.

Reactive Maintenance in London

At Snowik, we offer reactive maintenance to properties right across London, Middlesex and Surrey.

If you live in this area and are looking for an emergency maintenance service or any of our other services such as a full house refurbishment , then get in touch today for a free quote.

The Snowik Blog

Boosting Energy Efficiency with Modern Smart Installations

Technology saving energy

Boosting Energy Efficiency with Modern Smart Installations

What Are Smart Installations?

The Energy Efficiency Benefits

The Future of Smart Energy

Conclusion

The Importance of Using Professional Tradespeople

Expertise and Experience

Compliance with Standards and Regulations

Quality and Durability

Safety

Time and Cost Efficiency

Accountability and Guarantees

Professional Advice and Solutions

Conclusion

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6. Your Roof is Damaged

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Snowik’s Smart Home Systems

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Lutron

London Smart Home System Maintenance

An Essentials Tips Property Maintenance for Landlords

are you a lanlord? then you'll know the importance of property maintenance

What Kinds of Landlords Need Property Maintenance?

What Maintenance are Landlords Required to Carry Out?

Structural Repairs

Electrical Wiring

Heating

Checking Your Gas

Fittings and Appliances

When Should Property Maintenance for Landlords be Carried Out?

Landlord Maintenance Services from Snowik

What Certification can we Provide?

The Benefits of Regular Maintenance for Landlords

Peace of Mind

Better Relationships with Tenants

Keep Your Home Healthy