Five Signs That Your Boiler Isn’t In Full Working Order

Throughout the year, millions of homes rely on boilers for warmth and hot showers. However, the more they’re used, the more often they result in malfunctions and high-priced repairs, which is not only a complicated situation, given the current cost-of-living crisis, but also dangerous.

As energy prices continue to rise, it’s more important to be proactive about boiler maintenance. Early detection of boiler issues can most likely help you avoid spending money on repairs and guarantee that your heating system works correctly, ensuring it’ll lower energy bills in the long term. 

For that reason, our Boiler Expert, Carmen Mata Castillo, has revealed five signs that your boiler isn’t in full working order. 

1: Leaks 

Boiler leaks are a major issue that can result in significant damage and high-cost repairs (between £100 to £500). They can arise as a consequence of component failure, high water pressure, or harmed interior components. Even the most minor leaks can consume notable amounts of water, adding an increase to your expenses and leading to potential damages. 

For instance, the cost to replace deteriorated pipes sits between £200 to £300 (per pipe). In extreme cases, it can cost up to £1000 to £3000. To stop further damage, consulting an experienced engineer is essential. 

2: No hot water 

The lack of hot water is a clear sign of underlying concerns, such as low boiler pressure, nonfunctional thermostats, or diverter valve failure. For instance, it could be necessary to replace or restore a malfunctioning diverter valve that is sending hot water to your taps or radiators. Usually, this is a more costly and complex repair, varying from £80 to £350. Therefore, restoring your hot water supply is necessary to solve these issues. 

Furthermore, your energy bills can easily increase due to the absence of hot water. In situations where your boiler isn't producing hot water effectively, your boiler might have to run longer, which could raise your energy consumption. In this case, take fast actions that will restore your boiler’s efficiency and cut down on wasteful energy expenses. 

3: Unusual sounds 

Loud clattering or whistling noises in your home can help you notice that your boiler is most likely leaking. Normally, such noises indicate underlying problems, like trapped air or loose parts. This may require such operations as power flushing (priced between £350 to £800) or standard boiler service (priced between £55 to £100), both of which are vital when attempting to solve these concerns. If you opt to disregard these problems, it can result in more expensive and serious harm. 

4: Bad smells 

Atypical smells of metal or rotten eggs indicate you possibly have a gas leak. If distinguished, you should vacate your home and get hold of a Gas Safe engineer. Depending on the seriousness of the leak, repairs could cost anywhere between £300 and £500. Regular maintenance and the installation of carbon monoxide detectors play a significant role in order to detect these issues as early as possible.  

5: Persistent loss of boiler pressure 

Persistent pressure loss is a sign of complications, such as leaks, expansion vessels, or malfunctioning pressure relief valves. This may result in inefficient heating and potential boiler component damage. Repressurising can be a short-term fix, generally costing between £75 to £100. However, in order to identify and address the root reason for persistent pressure loss, a professional examination is crucial. 

Carmen Mata Castillo, Boiler Expert at GreenMatch:

“Nowadays, in today’s economic climate, every pound counts. Keeping your boiler in perfect condition is not just about avoiding breakdowns; it’s also about smart cash administration. An efficient boiler should consume less energy and reduce monthly bills. 

Constant maintenance of your boiler extends its lifespan, saving you the costs of a new boiler since there’s no need for replacements or repairs. Therefore, addressing minor concerns beforehand is essential for you to save money and maintain peace of mind.”