Having your boiler stop working can be a frustrating and stressful experience, especially during the colder months. If you’re facing this issue, it’s important to know the steps you can take to troubleshoot the problem before seeking professional help. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to do when your boiler stops working, including common reasons for a breakdown and your options for getting it repaired. If you’re based in Surrey and need assistance, boiler repair in Surrey is just a call away with Paul Benham Heating and Plumbing.
What to Do When Your Boiler Stops Working
When your boiler stops working, the first step is not to panic. Boilers can fail for a variety of reasons, some of which are simple fixes. Here’s what you can do:
- Check the thermostat – Ensure that the thermostat is set correctly. Sometimes, a simple misadjustment or dead batteries can cause the heating to stop working.
- Reset the boiler – Most modern boilers have a reset button. Follow your boiler’s manual to safely reset it. This can sometimes solve the issue without further action.
- Check for error codes – Many boilers display error codes when they encounter a problem. Refer to the manual to understand the code and what might be causing the issue.
- Inspect the pressure gauge – Boilers need a certain level of pressure to function properly. If the pressure is too low, it could cause the boiler to shut down. Repressurising it might fix the issue.
- Check the pilot light (for older models) – If you have an older boiler, the pilot light might have gone out. Relighting it according to the manufacturer’s instructions could restore function.
Common Reasons Your Boiler May Break Down
Boilers can break down for a number of reasons, and while some are simple to fix, others may require a professional’s expertise. Here are some common reasons a boiler might stop working:
- Low boiler pressure – If your boiler’s pressure is too low, it won’t be able to circulate hot water around your home. This can happen due to a leak or after bleeding your radiators.
- Thermostat issues – Faulty thermostats can lead to boilers not firing up or not responding to temperature changes. This is a common issue in older systems.
- Frozen condensate pipe – During winter, the condensate pipe (which carries waste water away from the boiler) can freeze, causing the boiler to shut down as a safety precaution.
- Faulty diverter valve – The diverter valve is responsible for directing hot water to either your heating system or taps. If it malfunctions, you may have hot water but no heating, or vice versa.
- Electrical faults – Boilers require electricity to function, and an electrical issue, such as a blown fuse or a tripped circuit breaker, can cause it to stop working.
- Pilot light or ignition failure – On older boilers, the pilot light may go out or the ignition system may fail, preventing the boiler from heating water.
What Are Your Options When Your Boiler Breaks Down?
If the troubleshooting steps don’t resolve the issue, there are a few options available when your boiler breaks down:
- Call for a boiler repair service – If the problem persists, it’s best to call in a professional for boiler repair in Surrey. Paul Benham Heating and Plumbing offers expert diagnosis and repair services to get your boiler up and running again quickly and safely.
- Consider a boiler replacement – If your boiler is old and has a history of frequent breakdowns, it might be time to consider a replacement. A new, energy-efficient boiler can not only solve your current problems but also help reduce future energy bills.
- Get an annual service – Prevention is always better than cure. Having your boiler serviced annually can help catch potential problems before they cause a breakdown. Regular servicing keeps your boiler in good condition, improving its reliability and efficiency.
Ready for a Boiler Repair in Surrey?
If your boiler has stopped working and you’ve tried the troubleshooting steps with no success, don’t wait until the issue worsens. At Paul Benham Heating and Plumbing, we specialise in boiler repair in Surrey and are here to help get your heating system back on track. Whether you need a quick fix or a full replacement, our experienced team is ready to assist. Contact us today for reliable and professional service.