Ask the Expert: Quick tips to prevent boiler breakdowns

With summer (or what there was of it) now feeling like a distant memory and the nights getting longer, it’s fair to say that the winter months aren’t that far off.

And the last thing you want is to crank up the heating when the time comes, only to be left in the cold.

So here’s a little winter bolier wisdom to ensure you’re not left feeling the pinch this winter.

Check your heating regularly

It’s often better to keep your heating on, even at the lowest level throughout through the milder months to ensure no damage is caused when you finally come to turn it on. This is because the system works extra hard warming up from cold than if it is constantly ticking over. Even turning on the heating for half an hour every now and then will prevent potential breakdown when it comes to the time you need it for real.

Make sure your boiler is on

If you haven’t used your heating for some time, you may be blissfully unaware that there is a problem. So make sure you take time to check your boiler is actually switched on and ready to go. Check to see if your boiler’s pilot light is on, and if the pilot light is out, you can always relight or reset your boiler system manually instead of calling out an engineer.

Check your pressure

If your boiler stops working check the pressure dial and inspect all of your radiators and pipes for leaks. If you can’t find a leak you should be able to increase the pressure in your system manually by using your system’s valve handle. But you should always switch your boiler off and consult your instructions before tinkering with your boiler’s pressure, as adding too much pressure into a system can be dangerous.

Bleed your radiators

Trapped air inside your radiators will lead to cold patches and heat not circulating efficiently around your home. So it’s vital to bleed your radiators regularly. But if you do this and still have a problem with cold patches, your system might be blocked with sludge and might need a chemical flush by a professional gas safe registered engineer.

Get your boiler serviced

We recommend that you get your boiler serviced once every year to make sure everything is in tip-top condition and safe working order when the time comes to feel the benefit. So if you’ve not already had yours serviced, put it at the top of your to do list. Don’t wait until your boiler breaks down before you give it a thought, or it could end up being a long winter and it might cost you more in the long run.

Call the experts

If you carry out these regular and simple checks you should find your boiler works perfectly throughout the winter and beyond. But if you find the problems continue to mount up and your heating system is becoming more and more unreliable, it may be time to call in the experts. Call Maintrade plumbers on 0151 329 2798. We offer a 24 hours a day, 7 days a week emergency plumbing callout service. We do not charge you a callout fee, and charge you by the first hour, and then for every half hour thereafter, at very competitive rates.