Replacing your boiler? Central heating boiler replacement incl. installation
A boiler fault usually strikes at the worst possible moment: when it is cold and the boiler has to work hardest. Many faults have a recognisable cause. Below are the most common ones, what you can safely check yourself, and when it is best to call an engineer.
- Low water pressure is one of the most common causes
- During freezing weather, a condensing boiler's condensate pipe can freeze
- Make a note of the fault code: it points you in the right direction
- Always leave work on gas or electrics to a qualified professional
No heating or hot water: check this first
- Electricity: is the display lit up? Check the plug and the circuit breaker in the consumer unit.
- Thermostat: are the batteries still working and is it set higher than the room temperature?
- Gas valve: is the gas valve next to the boiler open?
- Water pressure: is the gauge in the green zone? Low pressure is a very common cause. Read all about water pressure and how to top up your boiler.
Frozen condensate pipe in sub-zero temperatures
A condensing boiler produces condensate water that drains away via a discharge pipe. If that pipe runs (partly) outside or through an unheated space, it can freezeduring severe frost. The boiler then locks out. Thawing it with lukewarm water or a warm cloth on the pipe often helps; never use a naked flame. If this happens regularly, have the pipe rerouted or insulated.
Error code on the display
Modern boilers show an error code which points you in the right direction. The explanation can be found in your boiler manual. You may reset it once; if the fault returns, do not keep resetting it, but note down the code and call us. We can often assess what is going on straight away and bring the right spare parts.
Radiators stay cold or make ticking noises
If a radiator does not get warm at the top, or if you hear ticking and gurgling noises, there is often air in the system. Bleed the radiators and then top up the water pressure. If some radiators remain cold while others are hot, system hydraulic balancing can help.
When should you call an engineer?
- You smell gas: leave the property immediately and call the national gas emergency service.
- The fault returns after resetting or topping up.
- You have to top up frequently: this may indicate a leak.
- Water is leaking from the boiler or you hear loud banging noises.
Many faults can be prevented with annual boiler servicing before the heating season begins; also read preparing your central heating boiler for winter. If your boiler is getting old and is failing more often, consider cv-ketel vervangen or a hybrid heat pump.
Free advice and a clear quote upfront, carried out by our own team.
Frequently asked questions
My boiler is losing pressure, what now?
Topping up to the level recommended in the manual often resolves it. If you need to top it up regularly, there might be a leak or another issue: have it inspected.
Can I fix a fault myself?
Topping up the water pressure, bleeding the radiators and resetting it once are things you can often do yourself. Always leave gas or electrical work to a certified professional.
Why does my boiler stop working in freezing temperatures?
Often, the condensate pipe is frozen. Thaw the pipe carefully with lukewarm water. If this happens regularly, have the pipe modified.
How do I prevent boiler faults in winter?
Have the boiler serviced before the heating season, check the water pressure, bleed your radiators and make sure pipes in unheated spaces are protected from frost.
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