If your boiler has stopped working there are a couple of things you can check before calling for help. This includes:
Checking the condensate pipe
In cold weather your boiler’s condensate pipe may freeze, which can lead to a blockage. Symptoms of a frozen condensate pipe include error codes or warning lights on your boiler’s display or a gurgling sound. If the pipe is frozen then it will need to be thawed. This should happen naturally during the day when the weather is warmer.
Check the settings and controls regularly
If you have a timer, check that it is set correctly and that it comes on at the right time. Also check that the room thermostat is set correctly. Try increasing the temperature setting on the thermostat, as the boiler will only come on when the thermostat temperature is higher than the room where it is located.
Check your gas supply regularly
If you have a pre-payment gas meter insert your gas card fully and reset the meter so you can check the display.
Try the reset button
There are numerous safety devices within a boiler that can sometimes trip, meaning that your boiler will need to be reset. On most boilers, this can be done by pressing the reset button, which is normally on the front of the boiler.
Check the pressure isn’t too low
Low pressure is common in combi boilers and can cause your boiler to run at a lower capacity than normal. Check the pressure gauge on the front of the boiler, which should be around 1 bar when the boiler is cold.
Check you radiator
It could be that you are experiencing a problem with your radiator and not the boiler at all.
Try adjusting your radiator valves to see if you can get them to heat up.
Another common problem is air trapped in the radiators. Check your radiators regularly for cold patches and, if there are any; bleed them if you have a radiator key.
For a more detailed guide on how to carry out the above tips, see our full top tips guide.
If you have tried all of the above and your boiler still isn’t running then you’ll need to call a gas engineer.