When your boiler, a central heating system that generates hot water and steam for radiators and taps. Also known as a central heating system, it keeps your home warm and your showers hot suddenly stops working, it’s not just inconvenient—it’s uncomfortable, especially in winter. A boiler isn’t just a box in the corner; it’s the heart of your home’s heating and hot water system. When it fails, you’re not just losing heat—you’re facing a potential safety issue, especially if it’s a gas model. That’s why knowing the most common reasons a boiler stops working helps you act fast, stay safe, and avoid costly mistakes.
One of the top reasons a boiler isn’t working is low water pressure, the force that moves water through your heating system. If the pressure gauge reads below 1 bar, your boiler will shut down as a safety measure. It’s simple to fix: use the filling loop to top it up to between 1 and 1.5 bar. Another frequent culprit is a faulty thermostat, the device that tells your boiler when to turn on or off based on room temperature. If it’s misreading or stuck, your boiler won’t fire up even if the room is freezing. Then there’s the gas supply, the fuel line that delivers gas to your boiler’s burner. Check if your gas meter is on, and make sure your neighbors have gas too—if they don’t, it’s a wider outage. Don’t forget the pump, the component that circulates hot water through your pipes and radiators. A blocked or faulty pump can cause silence where there should be hum.
If you hear gurgling, see error codes like E1 or F22, or notice water pooling under the boiler, those are clear signs something’s wrong. Some problems, like bleeding radiators or resetting the boiler, you can handle yourself. Others—like gas leaks, cracked heat exchangers, or faulty ignition systems—require a Gas Safe engineer, a certified professional legally allowed to work on gas appliances in the UK. Never guess with gas. Always call a qualified technician if you smell gas, hear hissing, or see soot around the boiler.
The collection below gives you real, practical help: how to diagnose boiler problems step by step, what repair costs you can expect in 2025, when to call a pro, and how to avoid common mistakes that make things worse. Whether you’re dealing with no hot water, strange noises, or a boiler that won’t light up, you’ll find clear answers without the fluff. No theory. No sales pitches. Just what works.
If your boiler stops working, know who to call and what to do immediately. This guide covers emergency steps, how to find a Gas Safe engineer, repair costs, and how to prevent future breakdowns in the UK.
Ever opened your freezer to find squishy ice cream or thawed food when it should be rock solid? This article digs into the real reasons your freezer refuses to stay frozen, from simple mistakes to sneaky mechanical fails. Learn how to spot common culprits, fix minor issues yourself, and know when things are actually serious. Packed with practical tips and straightforward advice, you'll get the cold facts and solutions you need. No jargon, just help you can actually use.
Curious if you can fix your boiler yourself? This detailed guide covers common boiler problems, easy repairs you can tackle, and when to leave it to the pros.
Plumbers are often the go-to professionals for a wide range of home repairs, but when it comes to boilers, it's essential to know their scope of work. This article delves into whether plumbers can actually handle boiler installations and replacements. You'll uncover what specific skills and certifications are required for boiler work, why hiring a specialized heating engineer may be recommended, and the potential risks of using underqualified technicians. Whether you're considering a new boiler or need an existing one serviced, understanding who is best suited for the task is crucial.
When your water heater only puts out cold water, it’s more than just annoying—it can point to real problems inside the unit. This article breaks down the most common reasons behind a water heater that refuses to warm up, from tripped breakers to busted heating elements. You’ll find tips on quick checks you can do at home before calling a pro, plus some unexpected facts about how water heaters really work. Knowing what’s wrong can save you from a frigid morning shower and a giant repair bill. Get ready to tackle that cold water problem with practical advice you can use right away.
Stuck with a broken extractor fan and not sure what to do next? This article gives you practical ideas for improving air flow in your kitchen or bathroom when the fan is out of action. Learn about effective ways to keep humidity, smells, and condensation under control using simple tools and habits. Discover the pros and cons of each alternative solution so you can pick what fits your place best. Skip the stress and get the facts on dealing with bad ventilation the easy way.