If your boiler breaks down, it causes a lot of inconveniences which is why you must have it fixed as soon as possible. We have compiled a list of signs you can look out for and what you can do to fix them before calling a heating engineer. Understanding these signs and knowing the basic troubleshooting steps can save you time and help you avoid unnecessary stress.
For electric boilers in Birmingham, Tamworth, Solihull, Sutton Coldfield, and surrounding areas, give us a call at 0121 405 0404 or use our contact form.
Signs that indicate your boiler is broken
Sounds
If your boiler makes strange sounds, such as banging or whistling, this might indicate there is a problem. These noises can be caused by various issues, such as air in the system, low water pressure, or a failing pump. It’s essential to address these sounds promptly to prevent further damage.
Pilot Light
The pilot light on all boilers should be blue, if you check the pilot light on your boiler and it's orange or not lit, you may have to reset your boiler. A discoloured or extinguished pilot light can indicate a malfunctioning component or an issue with the gas supply. Ensure to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully when attempting to relight the pilot light.
Pressure
If your boiler continually loses pressure or if the pressure is too high, it might be an indication that it's broken. Boilers operate efficiently within a specific pressure range, usually between 1 and 2 bars. Regularly check the pressure gauge and refer to your boiler manual for guidance on maintaining optimal pressure levels.
No Heat or Hot Water
One of the most obvious signs of a broken boiler is the lack of heat or hot water. If your radiators are cold or your taps are not producing hot water, there could be a variety of issues at play, from a broken thermostat to a failed valve or pump.
Leaks
Visible leaks around your boiler or from the pipes can be a serious indication of a problem. Leaks not only reduce the efficiency of your heating system but can also cause significant water damage to your property.
What do I do before calling a heating engineer?
Check the power
Here at AllForProperty, we recommend checking that your boiler is on. If you have experienced a power loss, there is a chance that your boiler was turned off. Try resetting your boiler by following the instructions from the manual that came with it. Ensure that the circuit breaker or fuse controlling the boiler is in the "on" position. Power issues are often the simplest to fix but can sometimes be overlooked.
Check the gas supply
The simplest way to determine whether you have a gas supply issue is to examine your gas appliances, such as a gas stove. If you still have problems after doing so, there is a possibility that there is an issue with your gas supply, try calling your gas supplier to find out how this can be fixed. It’s also worth checking if there have been any local gas outages or maintenance works that might be affecting your supply.
Check the water supply
We highly recommend checking to see if you have access to water, chances are your boiler is not producing hot water due to not having a water supply. Run the taps to see if you have running water and if not, contact your local water supplier. Ensure that all valves supplying water to the boiler are fully open and that there are no visible obstructions or leaks in the water supply lines.
Bleed the Radiators
If your radiators are not heating up properly, it might be due to trapped air within the system. Bleeding your radiators can release this air, allowing hot water to circulate more effectively. Use a radiator key to carefully open the valve at the top of the radiator until water starts to escape, then close it securely.
Inspect the Thermostat
Sometimes, the issue might be as simple as a malfunctioning thermostat. Check if the thermostat is set to the correct temperature and mode. If it’s battery-operated, try replacing the batteries. Also, ensure that the thermostat is not obstructed or exposed to external heat sources that might affect its readings.
Look for Error Codes
Modern boilers often display error codes when something goes wrong. Refer to your boiler’s manual to interpret these codes and understand the potential issues. Some minor problems can be resolved by following the manual’s troubleshooting guide.
Finally, call a heating engineer
We offer professional electric boiler repairs in Birmingham, Solihull, Tamworth, Sutton Coldfield, and nearby areas. If you are experiencing issues with your boiler, we can help with our boiler repair services, simply call us on 0121 405 0404.
