To help keep our communities safe during icy and snowy conditions, Caledonia has invested in grit bins for our developments with communal paths and car parks not adopted by the local authority.

Grit bins provided by Caledonia are clearly marked to distinguish them from grit bins provided by the local authority on public roads and paths. Grit/salt will be stocked in the bins during November and will be replenished periodically at the request of staff or customers until the end of March.

If you notice a grit bin running low, please contact our Customer Service Team on 0800 678 1228, quoting the grit bin reference.

While we cannot grit every path at each scheme, the supplies provided are there for tenants and visitors to use, helping to reduce risks associated with severe weather.

Frozen pipes can cause significant disruptions, including the loss of running water and the risk of flooding. To prevent this, follow these steps:

• Keep your heating on: Set your thermostat between 12-15°C even when you’re away to protect internal pipes.
• Allow warm air to circulate: Open cabinet doors under sinks and loft hatches to let warm air flow around exposed pipes.
• Run your taps regularly: Moving water is less likely to freeze, so turn taps on and off periodically.
• Drain your water system for extended absences: If leaving your property for an extended period, consider draining your water system.

Locate your stopcock to turn off your water supply quickly in case of an emergency. For more tips, visit click the Button below to be redirected to Scottish Waters website.

For some homes, external condensate waste pipes connected to boilers can freeze during icy conditions. These pipes typically run outside, draining wastewater from the boiler. If frozen, wastewater backs up, causing the boiler to shut down.

To fix this issue:

• Pour warm water (not boiling) over the frozen pipe to unfreeze it.
• Once the pipe is clear, reset your boiler to restore heating.

This simple action can often resolve the issue without the need for an engineer.

Internal condensate pipes, connected to sinks, can become blocked by grease and fat buildup. To avoid this:

• Dispose of food waste, milk, and cooking oil responsibly and avoid putting them down the sink.
• Use a shop-bought drain unblocker if you notice water draining slowly from your sink.

Taking these steps early can help prevent costly repairs.

During peak times, gas pressure fluctuations can lead to boiler ‘lockouts,’ temporarily disrupting heating. A lockout occurs when the boiler turns off for safety and displays a fault code.

To resolve a lockout:

• Press the reset button and relight the boiler flame if required.
• If lockouts happen frequently, keep a record of when they occur to help engineers diagnose and resolve the issue more efficiently.

Please visit our website for a comprehensive overview of managing condensation, damp and mould, ensuring your home remains in optimal condition.

We take reports of damp and mould extremely seriously and urge any tenant who has concerns to contact us.

Set Your Thermostat to Stay Safe

For older or vulnerable tenants, maintaining warmth is crucial. While it’s important to save energy, your health should come first. Keep your thermostat set to at least 18°C to stay warm and well.

Maximise Warm Air Circulation

Leave internal doors open when the heating is on to promote warm air circulation. This helps eliminate cold spots and ensures consistent warmth throughout your home.

The festive season brings joy but also additional fire hazards. Follow these vital tips to keep your home safe this Christmas:

• Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms.
• Don’t overload plug sockets.
• Avoid leaving candles unattended or placing them near Christmas trees or greenery. Consider using battery-operated candles instead.
• Switch off or unplug fairy lights at night and when leaving the house.
• Inspect Christmas lights for signs of damage before use.
• Avoid hanging decorations over or near fires or heaters.