Update, 26 August 2026: this article was written just after the government’s March 2026 announcement, when the rules were still being worked through. They have since landed, and not by the route the industry expected. The law that actually legalises plug-in solar is a statutory instrument, SI 2026/848, which was made on 16 July 2026 […]
Plug-in Solar Panels: Are They Worth It for UK Homes? Read More »
What Is the Aqara Radiator Thermostat W600? With winter on the way and energy bills not showing any signs of falling, many people are looking for simple ways to heat their homes more efficiently without sacrificing comfort. Smart radiator valves are one of the easiest upgrades, letting you control temperatures room by room using your
Aqara Radiator Thermostat W600 Review – Quiet, Accurate Smart Heating Read More »
Whilst improving our homes, it’s not unusual to come across gaps and cracks that need filling. The best way to tackle these gaps and cracks is with products like caulk and filler. How you choose to use caulk or filler depends on the situation you need to fix, as they are suited to distinctly different
Caulk vs Filler: What’s the Difference and How to Choose Caulk or Filler Read More »
Immersion heaters are a common way to heat water in UK homes, particularly where gas is not available or as a backup to a boiler system. However, many people are unsure about how long to leave them on, what to expect in terms of hot water output, or why things might seem slower than expected.
How Long Does an Immersion Heater Take to Heat Water? Read More »
Salus thermostats are known for being affordable, but sometimes things can go wrong, and you may encounter problems. This guide breaks down some common faults and how to fix them. If your heating isn’t coming on, if your receiver is flashing red, or the thermostat isn’t pairing, we cover how to hopefully fix your thermostat.
Salus Thermostat Not Working? Troubleshooting Common Issues Read More »
If you’ve just moved into a house and are concerned about damp, you’re not alone. Damp is one of UK homeowners’ most common issues, particularly in older properties. You might be tempted to grab a digital damp meter and start prodding your walls for readings – but what do the numbers mean, and when should
What’s an acceptable damp reading in walls? Read More »
Repointing or repairing a roof verge is a common DIY task, especially on older properties where weather and time can take their toll on the mortar bedding. But when it comes to the best mortar mix for a roof verge, opinions – and results – vary. What Is a Roof Verge? The verge is the
What’s the Best Mortar Mix for Roof Verge Pointing? Read More »
If you face challenges when attempting to remove a G9 bulb, you’re not alone. The small size of these bulbs can make them difficult to handle after they have been installed for a while or when they become overheated. This article provides practical guidance on removing stubborn G9 bulbs and includes advice to prevent such
How to Remove a Stuck G9 Bulb Read More »
When upgrading your electrics – particularly when adding things like off-peak heating or new consumer units – questions often arise about sub-mains and whether they now need extra protection under current regulations. This article aims to explain the topic clearly for non-electricians, focusing on what’s changed (and what hasn’t) under the 18th Edition of the
Does a Sub-Main Need to Be RCD Protected? A Guide for UK Homeowners Read More »
What is a Mist Coat? A mist coat is the thinned first coat of paint used on new plaster or very porous surfaces. The main goal of this is to cover the surface and decrease its absorption capacity. When painting freshly plastered walls, a mist coat is crucially important. The first coat will seal the
