List of Boiler Problems
The average homeowner may not have much cause to notice the boiler. So long as it’s working fine, there’s no reason to. However, when there’s a boiler problem, it becomes a huge concern, resulting in a lack of heating for the home, as well as hot water. Here, we’re going to look at the ten most common concerns regarding your boiler, so you know what you need when it comes to boiler repair.
No heat or hot water
The most common reasons for this are broken diaphragms, broken airlocks, the failure of motorised valves, or low water levels. You can check boiler pressure and the thermostat, which can be adjusted. Otherwise, you may need a replacement part as part of your boiler repair.
Leaking and dripping
There can be many causes, including broken pump seals or pressure valves. Finding the source of a leak is all about finding the location. However, attempting leaking repairs is incredibly dangerous, so it’s best to rely on an engineer.
Pilot light snuffs out
A broken thermocouple stopping the gas supply or a deposit building in the light can snuff out a pilot light. Otherwise, it may be that a draught simply blew it out, in which case you can relight it yourself. Before you do that, ensure there are no issues with the gas supply. If there are, arrange a boiler repair.
Low boiler pressure
If your heating is functioning properly, check the built-in pressure gauge. If it’s below one, the pressure is too low due to a leak or an old pressure valve.
Frozen condensate pipe
Condensing boilers have a pipe that leads out from the boiler to an exterior drain. This leaves them at risk of freezing. You can thaw a frozen pipe by pouring warm water over it. If you don’t feel comfortable doing that, however, you should call an engineer.
Faulty thermostat
A thermostat can lose accuracy or turn the heating on and off when it’s not supposed to if it’s too old. Make sure it’s in the on position and set properly before you replace it, however.
Strange noises
If there is a whistling, banging, or gurgling noise, it’s most often caused by air trapped in the system, kettling or low water pressure. During your boiler service, the engineer can recognise the difference between noises and the cause, as a result.
Kettling
Rumbling and whistling noises, as mentioned above, can be a result of kittling. Limescale and other deposits build in the boiler, restricting the flow of water and heating it to boiling point which causes those sounds. You can have the boiler flushed as part of your boiler repair to solve it.
Radiators have trouble heating
The most common reason for parts of the radiator, such as the middle or the bottom, having trouble heating is due to the build-up of deposits inside restricting the flow of water. There are plenty of guides online that show you how to bleed the radiator or balance it to get rid of this issue.
Boiler switches itself off
There are many causes, including low pressure, thermostat issues, and closed valves restricting water flow. If this is a common issue, a boiler service is recommended.
Besides seeking the repairs your boilers need as soon as possible, you should try to stay ahead of any potential problems to minimise the stress involved. If your boiler is old and falling apart, a new boiler installation can cut the cost of repairs. A routine boiler service can highlight any lurking issues and stop them from becoming a more serious problem, too.
If you find that your boiler is in need of a service, or if you need a completely new boiler installed, don’t hesitate to get in touch. Call us today on 0208 988 1662 or send us an email.