Winter is on the horizon. And, as winter approaches there are few things more frustrating than discovering your boiler won’t turn on, or is acting up just when you need it most.
If this happens to you, the first thing we’d like to say is don’t worry. Even if you’re not a DIY expert, there are a few simple steps you can take before you need to call a professional. Here’s a quick troubleshooting guide to help you:
Check the basics
The first thing to do is start with the simplest checks like the power supply, then the thermostat and timer settings. It sounds really obvious, but do make sure your boiler is switched on. Sometimes, boilers trip your electrical circuit, so check your fuse box for any flipped switches.
The next step is to ensure your thermostat is set to a temperature higher than the current room temperature to activate the heating. If your boiler has a timer, make sure it’s adjusted for winter hours.
1. Check your boiler pressure
Low pressure is a common issue, especially after months of inactivity. Your boiler’s pressure gauge should read between 1 and 1.5 for optimal operation. If the pressure is below 1, your boiler might be struggling to function. You can re-pressurise it by following the boiler manual, but if you’re unsure about what to do or feel wary about doing anything, get in touch.
2. Bleed your radiators
If your radiators aren’t heating properly, the cause could be as simple as some trapped air. To bleed a radiator you’ll need a radiator key to open the valve at the top of the radiator. Turn the key gently and keep opening until you hear a hissing sound. When water starts to flow, close the valve. Believe it or not, this simple task can help your system run more smoothly.
3. Check for error codes
Modern boilers often have digital displays that show error codes when something goes wrong. These codes can indicate specific issues like a blocked flue or a frozen condensate pipe. What to do, is note the error code and consult your boiler’s manual for troubleshooting tips. If anything’s unclear, this may be a good time to reach out to us to help you.
4. Is your condensate pipe frozen?
A condensate pipe releases water once the system volume hits a certain threshold. In cold weather, a frozen condensate pipe is a common cause of a boiler that seems to be troublesome. This pipe leads outside and drains water from the boiler. If it freezes, your boiler may shut down as a safety measure. Try gently thawing the pipe using warm (not boiling) water or a warm compress.
Call us if you need us
If you’ve tried these steps and your boiler is still malfunctioning, it’s time to call us as there could be a more serious issue, such as a faulty pump or motor.
Prevention is often better than cure…
To prevent problems, you should have an annual boiler service ahead of winter setting in. A qualified engineer can spot potential issues and ensure your boiler is ready for the chilly season ahead.
Dealing with a faulty boiler during cold weather can be stressful. Try these simple troubleshooting steps, but if you’re unsure, reach out and let us help. Your safety and comfort are our top priority.
