I strongly value DIYing things when possible, or at least doing what you can first, and if that doesn't work, then calling in a professional. While I don't have a boiler in my house (I have solar water heating and the system that goes along with that), these tips from a reader hopefully will be able to help some of you who do have boilers.
Your boiler is something you can take for granted until it goes it wrong. Because fate likes playing tricks, you are most likely to find out your boiler is off when you step into the shower and the hot water’s gone. Naturally, you’ll rush to your boiler for a look. You will press the red reset button. Perhaps several times. Nothing? You’ll give any dials are quick twiddle. Still nothing. You will even look like you know what you are doing until you give the boiler a thump.
Well, that’s not going to fix it. Is this the point when a wise man wearing his bath towel gets on the phone to make an appointment with a boiler professional? Or should you try and save the cash and work out if there is anything you can do?
The truth is that there are some situations when you can try your knowledge, but on other occasions, it is better to admit your limitations and get in touch with a professional. In fact, it is better to have information about a professional who would offer same day boiler repair in case something needs immediate attention.
Nevertheless, here are a few things you can do before you call on the expert.
Re-pressurize it
Start by checking the boiler pressure and if necessary, re-pressurize it to resolve any performance issues. You can check using an indicator on the front of the boiler. They are clear so you’ll know right away if it the pressure is too low or too high. You’ll need the boiler on for this but ensure you have turned it off before you start meddling with it. Then, look for the filling loop at the bottom of your boiler. Here, you should ensure the ends of the hose are directly connected to the valves. If the pressure is low, open the valve just a touch. You will hear the water filling the system. While this happens, keep checking the pressure indicator and stop when it reaches the desired levels. Your boiler should work fine after you have reset the water pressure. You can also install a boiler cover that will protect you in the event of a boiler breakdown.
Reset it
If re-pressurizing your boiler does not work, you may want to reset it. For this, you may have to check your boiler's manual. To reset, you will have to locate the button and press it for about 10 seconds. Once done, the boiler should restart after a few minutes. If you notice that the initial reset has not worked, try it again. Sometimes it takes a couple of goes.
Consider Bleeding Your Radiators
When you turn on the heating, the radiators should feel warm. If one of them is not, you may have to ‘bleed’ it. Before going any further, ensure the central heating is turned off and give the radiator time to cool down completely. Then, with a radiator key and open the valve slowly. Use a cloth to hold the radiator and turn the key anti-clockwise. You will notice the vapor blocking the system escaping. Close the valve when there is no more vapor escaping.
If nothing works after trying these simple fixes, it is time to connect with a professional.
Your boiler is something you can take for granted until it goes it wrong. Because fate likes playing tricks, you are most likely to find out your boiler is off when you step into the shower and the hot water’s gone. Naturally, you’ll rush to your boiler for a look. You will press the red reset button. Perhaps several times. Nothing? You’ll give any dials are quick twiddle. Still nothing. You will even look like you know what you are doing until you give the boiler a thump.
Well, that’s not going to fix it. Is this the point when a wise man wearing his bath towel gets on the phone to make an appointment with a boiler professional? Or should you try and save the cash and work out if there is anything you can do?
The truth is that there are some situations when you can try your knowledge, but on other occasions, it is better to admit your limitations and get in touch with a professional. In fact, it is better to have information about a professional who would offer same day boiler repair in case something needs immediate attention.
Nevertheless, here are a few things you can do before you call on the expert.
Re-pressurize it
Start by checking the boiler pressure and if necessary, re-pressurize it to resolve any performance issues. You can check using an indicator on the front of the boiler. They are clear so you’ll know right away if it the pressure is too low or too high. You’ll need the boiler on for this but ensure you have turned it off before you start meddling with it. Then, look for the filling loop at the bottom of your boiler. Here, you should ensure the ends of the hose are directly connected to the valves. If the pressure is low, open the valve just a touch. You will hear the water filling the system. While this happens, keep checking the pressure indicator and stop when it reaches the desired levels. Your boiler should work fine after you have reset the water pressure. You can also install a boiler cover that will protect you in the event of a boiler breakdown.
Reset it
If re-pressurizing your boiler does not work, you may want to reset it. For this, you may have to check your boiler's manual. To reset, you will have to locate the button and press it for about 10 seconds. Once done, the boiler should restart after a few minutes. If you notice that the initial reset has not worked, try it again. Sometimes it takes a couple of goes.
When you turn on the heating, the radiators should feel warm. If one of them is not, you may have to ‘bleed’ it. Before going any further, ensure the central heating is turned off and give the radiator time to cool down completely. Then, with a radiator key and open the valve slowly. Use a cloth to hold the radiator and turn the key anti-clockwise. You will notice the vapor blocking the system escaping. Close the valve when there is no more vapor escaping.
If nothing works after trying these simple fixes, it is time to connect with a professional.