What to Do If Your Boiler Breaks Down: A Step-by-Step Guide

Published on Nov. 16th, 2024

There’s nothing more frustrating than waking up to a cold home in the middle of winter only to find that your boiler has broken down. While a broken boiler can be a stressful situation, it doesn’t have to leave you in the cold for long. In this guide, we’ll take you through the key steps to take when your boiler fails, so you can stay calm, stay safe, and get the problem sorted as quickly as possible. Whether it’s a sudden loss of heat or hot water, or strange noises coming from your boiler, we’ve got you covered with helpful tips on how to troubleshoot the issue and when it’s time to call in the professionals. Keep reading to learn what you can do if your boiler lets you down.

Check the Thermostat and Settings

The first thing to check when your boiler isn’t working is the thermostat and settings. It may sound simple, but sometimes the issue is as easy as the thermostat being set too low or accidentally turned off. Check to make sure that the temperature is set at an appropriate level, and if your system has a timer, ensure it’s not on an off cycle. Sometimes, a power surge or a small change in settings can lead to your boiler not coming on, so it's always worth reviewing these first. A quick reset of the thermostat could be all it takes to get things working again.

If the thermostat seems fine but your boiler is still not responding, it’s a good idea to check for any error codes or warning lights on the display panel of the boiler. Modern boilers often have built-in diagnostic tools that show what’s wrong. These error codes can provide a clear indication of the problem, so make a note of any numbers or lights that are flashing. Your boiler’s user manual can often help you decipher the code, or you can call a professional to get an expert opinion. Taking a moment to review the thermostat and error codes can save you time and frustration.

Ensure the Boiler Has Power

Another common reason for a boiler breakdown is a loss of power. It might seem obvious, but it’s always worth checking whether the boiler has power at all. Start by looking at the boiler’s display panel—if there are no lights on, the boiler may not be receiving power. Check that it’s plugged in properly and that there’s no issue with the electrical supply. You can also check the fuse box to see if a trip has caused the power to cut off. If the fuse has blown, reset it, but if it keeps tripping, there might be an underlying electrical issue that needs professional attention.

If the power seems to be on and the boiler is still not functioning, try resetting it. Many modern boilers have a reset button that can be pressed to reboot the system. If this doesn’t resolve the issue, there could be a deeper electrical problem, such as a blown fuse or malfunctioning component, which would require the expertise of a professional engineer. While it’s tempting to try and fix everything yourself, it's best to call an expert if you can't identify the issue quickly.

Check for Gas Supply Issues

A lack of gas supply is another common culprit when your boiler stops working. If you’re suddenly without hot water or heating, it’s worth checking if the gas supply to your home has been interrupted. Make sure that the gas valve is turned on and that you have gas running to your boiler. Sometimes, a gas cut-off can happen due to maintenance work in the area or a fault with your gas meter. If you’re unsure, check with your gas supplier to see if there are any service interruptions in your area.

If the gas supply is fine but your boiler is still not heating, there could be an issue with the gas valves or internal components of the boiler itself. In this case, it's crucial to avoid trying to fix the issue on your own. Gas appliances should always be repaired by a qualified Gas Safe registered engineer to ensure safety. If you suspect a gas issue, contact a professional immediately to prevent any potential hazards.

Bleed the Radiators

If your radiators are not warming up properly or if your home isn’t getting warm enough, it could be because air has trapped itself inside the system. This is especially common in older systems, and bleeding the radiators can help release any air and get the system working again. You can usually tell if air is trapped by feeling your radiators; if some parts are warm and others are cold, air could be the issue. Use a radiator key to open the valve at the top of the radiator, and you should hear a hissing sound as the air escapes.

Once all the air is released, close the valve tightly and check whether the radiator is now heating up. If the issue persists after bleeding the radiators, there may be a problem with the boiler pressure, a blockage, or something more serious in the central heating system. If you’ve bled the radiators and are still having issues, it may be time to call in a professional to inspect your system and make any necessary repairs.

Check the Pressure Gauge

Boilers rely on a certain level of pressure to function properly, and low pressure can cause your boiler to shut down. Most modern boilers have a pressure gauge that shows the current pressure of the system. If the needle is below the recommended level (usually between 1 and 1.5 bars), it can result in your boiler not functioning correctly. You can often fix this issue by re-pressurising the system yourself using the filling loop, which is usually located underneath the boiler.

To re-pressurise your system, follow the instructions in your boiler’s manual, but be sure to not over-pressurise it, as this could cause other issues. Once you’ve topped up the pressure, check the boiler again to see if it’s now working. If you find that the pressure continues to drop over time, this could indicate a leak or an issue with the pressure valve, which will require professional attention.

Consider the Age and Condition of Your Boiler

If your boiler is old and frequently breaking down, it might be time to consider replacing it. Boilers typically last between 10 and 15 years, and as they age, they become less efficient, requiring more frequent repairs. If your boiler is nearing the end of its lifespan, it may not be worth investing in costly repairs. Instead, upgrading to a newer, more energy-efficient model could save you money in the long run by reducing your heating bills and preventing further breakdowns.

When replacing an old boiler, it’s important to choose one that’s the right size for your home and heating needs. A professional heating engineer can assess your property and recommend the best model for you. If your current boiler is constantly in need of repairs, or if it’s not performing as it should, investing in a replacement might be the best option to ensure reliability and efficiency.

Call a Professional Boiler Engineer

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and your boiler is still not working, it’s time to call in a professional. A qualified, Gas Safe registered engineer will be able to diagnose the issue quickly and efficiently, ensuring the problem is fixed safely. Boiler repairs can be complicated, and without the right training and experience, it’s easy to cause further damage or even risk your safety. At MSM Plumbing, Heating & Gas, we have years of experience in diagnosing and repairing all types of boilers, and we’re committed to getting your system up and running as soon as possible.

When you call a professional, they’ll conduct a thorough inspection of your boiler, check for any fault codes, and repair any broken components. They will also provide you with advice on how to maintain your system and ensure it’s running efficiently. Don’t hesitate to contact us if your boiler breaks down—our expert team is always ready to help.

Dealing with a boiler breakdown can be frustrating, but with the right knowledge and a calm approach, you can handle the situation more efficiently. From checking the thermostat to calling in a professional engineer, these steps will help you address the issue quickly and get your boiler running smoothly again. If your boiler is still acting up after troubleshooting, don’t hesitate to contact MSM Plumbing, Heating & Gas at 7931 256757. Our Gas Safe registered engineers are here to help with any repairs, maintenance, or replacements you may need. Stay warm this winter—reach out today!