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John Murphy & Company Winter Warmer Tips

1. Program your thermostats

Programmable thermostats can be an effective way to improve a building’s efficiency. Generally, it’s cheaper to reheat your building than keep the heating on low when it’s unoccupied for an extended period of time (unless you own a heat pump). Consider switching the heating off or reducing the temperature right down when your building is not is use. Lowering your thermostat by 1°C can instantly make a difference to the money and energy you will save. It’s recommended room temperature is above 18°C to ensure occupants are both safe and comfortable.

2. Keep windows and doors closed and fit draught-proofing strips

Adding seals to your windows can help to keep them airtight. When doors and windows are left open, heat escapes through them, causing your HVAC system to work harder to maintain the room temperature. Weighted or automatic mechanisms can help keep doors closed in areas with heavy foot fall. If your building has large glass windows and doors, ensure they’re made of double-glazed glass. This will serve as a heat insulator and help to keep your space warmer, thereby reducing the energy consumption of your HVAC system.

3. Keep furniture away from radiators and heaters

Don’t overwork your system by blocking your source of heat and where possible, remove any radiator covers to get more value for money. Leaving 15-30cm between any furniture and your heating appliance will ensure free movement of air and better distribution of heat.

4. Insulate pipework

Insulating pipes with foam lagging prevents heat loss from pipework. This is a relatively simple and inexpensive task which will save money and energy. It will also prevent pipes from freezing and potentially bursting during the colder winter months. John Murphy and Company can repair or replace all insulation ensuring full compliance with BS 5422:2009.

5. Schedule regular HVAC maintenance

Regular maintenance is key to keeping any heating system functioning properly and ensure it’s running efficiently. It will detect small problems that could cause inefficiency in your system at a later date if ignored. By scheduling maintenance for your HVAC system, you cannot only prevent breakdowns but also improve it’s overall performance. One of the key benefits of outsourcing your HVAC maintenance to a specialist contractor like John Murphy and Company is our expertise and experience. Our team of professionals have the necessary skills, knowledge, and tools to handle all your building maintenance needs, from routine maintenance tasks to complex repairs and installations.
school maintenance contractor

How school maintenance can save you money

School maintenance is a crucial part of managing any educational facility, yet it’s often overlooked or seen as an expense to delay. However, postponing school maintenance can lead to costly repairs and disruptions that impact your budget and school environment. In this article, we explain how proactive school maintenance saves money over time and introduce John Murphy and Company Ltd, specialists in comprehensive school maintenance services across the UK.

Prevention is Better Than Cure: Why Regular School Maintenance Pays Off

The old saying prevention is better than cure perfectly applies to school maintenance. Scheduling regular inspections and repairs helps identify issues early, avoiding expensive emergencies later. The most common maintenance challenges in schools include:

  • Plumbing problems: Leaking taps, toilets, or blocked drains can cause water damage and increased water bills.

  • Electrical faults: Faulty wiring or outdated electrical systems pose fire risks and potential legal liabilities.

  • HVAC issues: Inefficient heating or cooling systems increase energy costs and may affect student and staff health.

  • Building repairs: Damaged roofs, windows, or doors can lead to water ingress, pest problems, and security vulnerabilities.

By adopting a preventative maintenance approach, schools can reduce breakdowns and major repairs. Regular cleaning, inspections, and timely fixes not only save money but also create a safer, more comfortable environment that supports better learning outcomes.

Introducing John Murphy and Company Ltd: Expert School Maintenance Services

John Murphy and Company Ltd specialises in tailored school maintenance solutions designed to meet the unique needs of educational facilities. With experience serving schools across the UK, their professional team delivers cost-effective maintenance plans covering:

Plumbing Services for Schools

From fixing leaks and repairing taps to full drainage and boiler servicing, their qualified plumbers ensure your school’s water systems run smoothly, helping to lower energy and repair costs.

Electrical Maintenance and Safety

They provide comprehensive electrical services including fault finding, testing and certification, lighting upgrades, and installation of security systems like CCTV, door entry, and access control to keep your school safe and compliant.

HVAC Installation and Repair

John Murphy and Company offers HVAC system installation, maintenance, and repairs, plus energy management advice to improve your heating, cooling, and ventilation efficiency is crucial for a healthy school environment.

Building Maintenance and Refurbishment

From roofing and window repairs to classroom refurbishments and decorating, their skilled team keeps your school buildings in top condition, minimizing disruption and maintaining a professional appearance.

Fire Safety and Security Compliance

Their Fire Qual trained fire door inspector conducts fire door inspections to ensure compliance with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. They also install and maintain intruder alarms, CCTV, and access control systems for comprehensive school security.