Key winter tips for heating, mobility, and fire safety

19.12.2025News

When winter arrives, heating, mobility, and fire safety require special attention. With the help of tips from VAV’s Development Manager Antti Tikkanen, you can get through the winter season safely and energy-efficiently.

VAV Development Manager Antti Tikkanen gives tips for the winter season. Photo: Justus Hirvi

Keep your equipment in good working order

The most important thing for the proper functioning of a radiator is that there are no obstacles between the thermostat and the room air. “The thermostat should be clearly visible. The radiator should not be hidden behind curtains or furniture; there should be sufficient air around it,” says Antti Tikkanen.

It is also a good idea to check the replacement air valves regularly. If the valves have become darkened, they can be vacuumed or washed gently. This is the responsibility of the resident and helps to keep the ventilation working properly.

In the kitchen, attention should be paid to the grease filter of the cooker hood. Tikkanen recommends washing it about once a month. “If the filter looks worn out, you can notify the maintenance company, and it will be replaced if necessary.”

What is a good indoor temperature in winter?

In winter, humidity typically drops below 40 percent, making the indoor air feel drier. According to housing health guidelines, the recommended room temperature is 21 degrees Celsius, measured at a height of approximately one meter and one meter away from the wall.

The temperature in the bedroom can be slightly lower, for example 18–20 degrees Celsius. “A bedroom that is cooler than other rooms improves sleep quality and makes it easier to fall asleep,” Antti explains.

Save electricity through everyday choices

Small everyday actions can have a significant impact on electricity consumption. Chargers and other unused devices should be unplugged from sockets, as they consume electricity even when in standby mode.

Antti urges people to pay particular attention to monitoring their devices.

“It is a good idea to monitor the charging of phones and tablets. In addition, home entertainment electronics do not usually need to be kept in standby mode all the time. When going on a longer trip, it is a good idea to check which devices can be completely disconnected from the power supply. Dishwashers, washing machines, and saunas should only be used when the resident is at home.”

Winter mobility requires vigilance

Property maintenance companies do their best to clear snow from all properties as quickly as possible. When temperatures fluctuate between freezing and above zero, outdoor areas can become icy and slippery as a result of thawing.

Antti emphasizes the importance of wearing the right footwear. “Winter shoes with good traction or anti-slip soles help prevent falls.” It is also important to be aware of your surroundings. “Keep your eyes on your surroundings, not on your phone. In winter, it is particularly useful to be alert and aware of your surroundings,” says Antti.

The maintenance company is responsible for the common areas of the property, but residents are responsible for clearing snow from their parking spaces and balconies, for example. Snow shovels are available for shared use on the property.

Waste management and recycling during the holidays

Waste management is a hot topic during Christmas and New Year’s. “Cooking grease should be placed in a tightly sealed container and then disposed of with mixed waste, never down the drain. Gift wrapping paper and ribbons can be saved for next year, but if they end up as waste, the right place for them is in mixed waste.”

“Metals, such as aluminum foil, belong in the metal collection. Broken LED lights and other electrical decorations should be taken to the electrical appliance collection. HSY collects Christmas trees at the beginning of the year,” Antti explains.

Christmas gift wrapping paper should be recycled with mixed waste. Where possible, it should be reused.

Fire safety during the festive season

Burning candles is an essential part of the winter festive atmosphere, but safety must be kept in mind.

“Candles must be placed at a sufficient distance from each other and from flammable materials. They must never be left unattended, especially if there are children or pets in the home.”

Outdoor fires should be placed far away from buildings, and remember not to light them in windy weather or on balconies. Antti recommends using eco-labeled candles, which burn cleanly and do not cause allergic reactions.

VAV has recently installed 11,000 fire alarms in its properties, so residents are well equipped to enjoy a safe winter.

“These instructions will help us get through the winter comfortably. I wish everyone a safe and peaceful winter season!”