Boiler 15 November 2023

What to do if your central heating stops working

Cold days can be unbearable, especially when your central heating system decides to take an unplanned holiday. As the temperatures drop, the urgency to restore warmth becomes paramount. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the troubleshooting steps and solutions to revive your central heating system efficiently.

Diagnosing the Issue

Check the Thermostat

One of the common culprits behind a malfunctioning central heating system is a faulty thermostat. Ensure it’s set to the desired temperature and replace the batteries if necessary. A programmable thermostat can enhance energy efficiency, providing both comfort and cost savings.

Here are some links to popular Thermostats and their troubleshooting guides.

• Hive
• Google Nest
• Honeywell

Inspect the Pilot Light

For gas-powered heating systems, a pilot light that’s gone out can disrupt the entire heating process. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to relight the pilot. If it continues to extinguish, there might be an issue with the thermocouple or gas supply that requires professional attention.

Evaluate the Power Source

Electric heating systems demand a reliable power source. Check the circuit breaker and reset if needed. If the problem persists, there might be an electrical issue that mandates an electrician’s expertise.

Basic Maintenance Tips

Bleed Radiators

Air bubbles in the radiator can impede the circulation of hot water, leading to uneven heating. Use a radiator key to bleed the system and release trapped air. This simple task can significantly improve your heating system’s efficiency.

Book an Annual Boiler Service

Ensure the longevity and efficiency of your central heating system by scheduling an annual boiler service. Professional maintenance helps prevent breakdowns, identifies potential issues, and keeps your system running smoothly.

Technical Troubleshooting

Inspect the Circulator Pump

The circulator pump is crucial for distributing hot water throughout the heating system. Ensure it’s functioning correctly by listening for any unusual noises and checking for leaks. If issues persist, a professional assessment may be necessary.

Verify the Pressure Levels

Low water pressure can impede the proper functioning of your central heating system. Check the pressure gauge and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to adjust it accordingly. If you’re unsure, consult a heating professional.

Check the Obvious Things First

Before assuming the worst, run through these. A surprising number of “broken” heating systems are none of the above:

• Is the programmer actually calling for heat? Timers lose their settings after a power cut, and the clock changes catch people out twice a year.
• Is the room thermostat set above the current room temperature? If the hall is already at 20°C and the dial is on 18, nothing will happen.
• Are the thermostat batteries flat? A wireless stat with dying batteries stops talking to the boiler entirely.
• Is the system pressure right? Most sealed systems want around 1 to 1.5 bar when cold. Too low and the boiler will refuse to fire.
• Has anything tripped at the consumer unit, or has the boiler’s own fused spur been switched off?
• Is there a fault code on the boiler display? Look it up in the manual before doing anything else.

The Frozen Condensate Pipe

This is the classic cold-snap fault and one you can very often fix yourself. If the boiler has stopped during a hard frost and is making a gurgling noise, the plastic condensate pipe running outside has probably frozen.

Pour warm — not boiling — water along the outside section, then reset the boiler. Boiling water can crack the pipe. If it happens every winter, the pipe is likely undersized or poorly lagged, and that is worth putting right properly.

When to Seek Professional Help

While some issues can be resolved through DIY efforts, certain situations demand the expertise of a professional heating technician. If it’s a Gas appliance that has the issue, ensure you find a suitable Gas Safe registered engineer. Consider professional assistance if:

• The issue persists after basic troubleshooting.
• There are strange noises or leaks in the system.
• Your heating system is old and requires a thorough inspection.

Get in touch today via email, or call us on 01732 792454 and we’d be happy to help.