How Do I Know if My Boiler is in Need of Repair

Even if you own a modern, A-rated boiler, there’s a chance that this model could incur faults from time to time.

However, it can be hard to know whether your central heating is in need of repair or not in some instances, which is why we rely so heavily on accredited and qualified heating engineers.

Fortunately, there are some tell-tale says which may indicate that you’re in need of a central heating repair. These include:

Low Boiler Pressure

You should always keep an eye on your boiler’s pressure gauge, which should typically sit between 1.0 and 1.5 bar when it’s work at its optimal level of efficiency.

If you notice that your boiler’s pressure is regularly plunging before 1.0 bar, this means that your central heating system is not functioning properly. This may be caused by a variety of reasons, from a simple water leak in the system to a malfunctioning pressure release valve.

You may also notice the pressure drop after bleeding your radiators, and your first step should always be to look for a visible leak in the system.

If you do find a link, you should call out your local heating engineer to investigate further and complete a repair.

Cold Patches on Radiators

It’s not uncommon for cold patches to develop on your radiators, especially if you’ve just switched on your heating system for the first time after the summer.

This is often caused by the gradual accumulation of sludge or trapped air inside the heating system, which causes an equal distribution of heat throughout the home.

Your response should depend on where the cold patches are located. If it’s top of the radiator that’s cold, this is probably the result of trapped air and your best course of action is to bleed the system.

However, cold patches at the bottom of the radiator are often caused by the build-up of dirt and debris, and this requires an accredited engineer to attend and carry out a powerflush.

Strange Noises Coming from your Boiler

Boilers often make noises, and whilst some of these are harmless others should be treated with far greater care and consideration.

For example, banging, whistling and gurgling noises may be indicative of several potential issues, from trapped air and low water pressure to a faulty pump or the serious accumulation of limescale over time.

In instances such as this, your boiler will usually require some form of repair, and it’s best to call out an accredited engineer to take care of this on your behalf.

Clunking, Banging and ‘Kettling’ Noises

Clunking and banging noises can often be the most startling, and in most cases these are caused by the accumulation of limescale within the heat exchanger. Over time, this can block the flow of water and cause some of your water supply to boil, steam and then expand, mimicking the function of a kettle. This is why such noises are often referred to as ‘kettling’ sounds, which can be loud and extremely startling during the early morning hours. Make no mistake; the underlying issues that cause these sounds can gradually increase the pressure in your boiler, eventually make it unsafe and unfit for purpose.

Whistling Noises

Kettling may also cause whistling noises, but in most cases this type of soft and high-pitched sound is triggered by the presence of trapped air within the heating system. If this is the case, be sure to check your boiler to see whether or note there’s cold patches on your radiators. In this case, you can simply bleed the affected radiators and release the air from the system, creating a quick and easy fix that can save you money. However, if this doesn’t solve the issue, an accredited engineer will need to attend your property and check to see if there’s any additional blockage or loss of water pressure.

Gurgling Noises

Gurgling noises can be alarming when you first hear them, and in most instances these sounds are triggered by the presence of trapped hair or a blockage within the heating system. It may also be caused by the accumulation of sediment at the bottom of the boiler, or a frozen condensate pipe if the external temperature has recently plummeted. Both these issues will require expert attention, whether you invest in a power flushing service or hire an engineer to thaw out the afflicted condensate pipe.

Reduced Efficiency

Have your energy costs increased without a corresponding decrease in usage? This can indicate that there is something wrong with your boiler. Reduced efficiency can be caused by several problems, including malfunctioning components, debris accumulation within the system, or a malfunctioning thermostat. In the long term, a professional boiler repair can help you save money by identifying and resolving these problems and restoring your boiler's efficiency.

Variable Water Temperature

Variable water temperature coming from your radiators or taps is another indication that your boiler needs to be repaired. There may be an issue with the boiler's pump, thermostat, or pressure levels if your water is not heating up properly or if it gets really hot out of nowhere. If you take care of these problems right away, you can keep your home cosy and have a steady supply of hot water.

Leaks or Drips

You should look into any indications of water leaks or drips near your boiler right once. Numerous factors, such as corrosion, broken seals, or excessive water pressure, can cause leaks. Leaks not only have the potential to ruin your property with water damage, but they can also be a sign that there are problems with the boiler that need to be fixed by a professional engineer. You can speak with one of our heating engineers in West Sussex, Billinghurst, Storrington, Pulborough, Horsham, or the surrounding areas by calling 07871 725133.

Regular Breakdowns

Something is wrong if your boiler keeps breaking down or needs to be reset regularly. Periodic malfunctions might be fixed with small fixes, but ongoing failures might point to more serious underlying flaws with the boiler's parts or system. A qualified evaluation may assist in determining the underlying cause of the persistent problems and offer the required fixes to bring your boiler's dependability back.

Why You Can Rely on Pipeline Plumbing Services

If your central heating system is experiencing issues and you reside in Storrington or the surrounding areas, you can always call on Pipeline Plumbing Service to oversee your repairs.

After all, our heating engineers have combined experience of more than 38 years in the industry, whilst they’re also Gas Safe-registered and well-trained in the very latest technologies and techniques.

To find out more, why not give us a call today on either 01903 740538 or 07871 725133. Conversely, you can shoot us an email to info@pipelineplumbingservices.co.uk and we’ll reply as quickly as we can.

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