Contents<\/h2>\n\n- Before you start<\/a><\/li>\n
- Typical boiler problems<\/a><\/li>\n
- What are the signs that I have a faulty boiler?<\/a><\/li>\n
- What should I do if I smell gas coming from my boiler?<\/a><\/li>\n
- When should I replace my boiler?<\/a><\/li>\n
- Do I need to hire a professional?<\/a><\/li>\n
- What will a boiler repair specialist do to fix your problems?<\/a><\/li>\n
- How much does boiler repair cost?<\/a><\/li>\n
- What factors can affect my boiler repair cost?<\/a><\/li>\n
- Fixed price repairs vs time-based boiler repair costs<\/a><\/li>\n
- Boiler cover<\/a>\n
\n- What is it?<\/a><\/li>\n
- How much does a boiler repair cost in [phpmu snippet=3]?<\/a><\/li>\n
- Is it worth it?<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/li>\n
- How long does it take to repair or replace a boiler?<\/a><\/li>\n
- Get a quote<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
Before you start<\/h2>\n
There are a few things you should consider before you call out a heating engineer<\/a> to repair or replace your boiler<\/a>.<\/p>\nBudget<\/h3>\n![\"boiler](\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\")
Budgeting is important<\/figcaption><\/figure>\nIn emergency cases, this may not be as relevant. However, if you\u2019re looking to get your boiler repaired or replaced before you\u2019re forced to by a breakdown, then budgeting is key.<\/p>\n
Boiler repair costs will rarely be below \u00a3100, which is not an insignificant amount of money. For many, fixing a boiler before you absolutely have to might seem an unnecessary expense.<\/p>\n
This is why it\u2019s important that you set out a clear budget beforehand.<\/p>\n
There are plenty of other expenses to plan for when it comes to maintaining a home, so prioritise. Are your windows in a state of disrepair, or does your front door need an update? These may be more pressing concerns, more deserving of a limited budget.<\/p>\n
Of course, if you\u2019re repairing a boiler that has ceased functioning altogether, then budgeting takes on a different role. Consider whether you want to pay more for a full replacement, or if boiler repair costs are high enough already.<\/p>\n
Scheduling<\/h3>\n
Once you\u2019ve set out your budget, it\u2019s time to figure out when the right time for a service will be.<\/p>\n
Boiler repair doesn\u2019t take an overly long time, but a total replacement can take much longer. With this in mind, if you can schedule replacement jobs for the weekend that is likely an ideal situation.<\/p>\n
Typical boiler problems<\/h2>\n
Boilers are complicated appliances with lots of components, all of which can fail in various ways. Additionally, there are multiple kinds of boilers with each one having unique ways it can fail.<\/p>\n
With all this in mind, this list of potential issues is designed to be as comprehensive as possible.<\/p>\n
For more specific advice on condensing and non-condensing boilers<\/a>, check out our dedicated article.<\/p>\nFaulty circuit board<\/h3>\n
The circuit board is the heart of any household appliance. From here, power is routed to wherever it needs to go and regulated to the correct levels.<\/p>\n
Warning signs of a faulty circuit board include:<\/p>\n
\n- General loss of power<\/li>\n
- Flickering lights<\/li>\n
- Only working on and off<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Note that a circuit board is different from a fuse box, although both play a role in how electricity is distributed to an appliance.<\/p>\n
We bring this up because, if you believe your boiler has an electrical fault, you should check the fuse first. This is the most common area for electrical issues. However, if the boiler\u2019s fuse is fine then it is possible the circuit has become unfit for use.<\/p>\n
It\u2019s rare that a circuit board can be fixed \u2013 instead, a brand new one should be installed.<\/p>\n
Furthermore, it can often be difficult to diagnose the root cause of a damaged circuit board. Power surges can cause it to short circuit, but more commonly the issue will develop from a crack or a boiler leak. In that case, you\u2019ll also have to fix the leak itself as well as ordering and fitting a replacement circuit board.<\/p>\n
Broken pump seal<\/h3>\n
Pump seals are different to the pumps mentioned later on. Their role is to ensure that any water passing through a pump goes where it should go. This is to say, pump seals ensure the boiler doesn\u2019t leak.<\/p>\n
Recognising that your pump seal is non-functional then is rather simple \u2013 do you have a leak? If the answer is yes, you could have a broken pump seal.<\/p>\n
It\u2019s very rare that anything other than the natural degradation of the product will cause this. If you have a leak but recently replaced the pump seal, the issue may be caused by another malfunctioning component.<\/p>\n
Fixing this requires an entirely new seal. Repairs are impractical, as the seal must be air tight to function and its structural integrity is already compromised. It\u2019s also fairly inexpensive to buy a new pump seal, so it won\u2019t raise your boiler repair cost too much.<\/p>\n
Damaged boiler fan<\/h3>\nCombi boiler – fan motor<\/figcaption><\/figure>\nBoiler fans are a crucial part of the whole appliance. So, if this isn\u2019t working it\u2019s imperative you get it fixed as soon as possible.<\/p>\n
The purpose of a boiler fan is to ventilate any harmful gases from your boiler and into the outdoors. Its functionality is vital to the safety of your home. The upside to this is that if your boiler fan is faulty, the circuit board is designed to detect this. In doing so, it will cut power to the rest of the appliance, preventing you from using it and creating harmful gases.<\/p>\n
You will notice the boiler fan isn\u2019t working if an air fault code begins to display on your boiler.<\/p>\n
These damages can be caused by repeated and consistent use. Over time the fan mechanism will wear down and burn out. On the other hand, the bearings that hold it in place can also decay or simply come loose.<\/p>\n
Unfortunately, because boiler fans need to be so robust, they must be replaced when broken \u2013 and replacements aren\u2019t cheap. Faulty fans can be a significant factor in high boiler repairs costs.<\/p>\n
Faulty motorised valve<\/h3>\n
The motorised valve is another integral part that helps direct and regulate the hot water produced by your boiler.<\/p>\n
If it breaks then a few things can happen. A lack of hot water being supplied to taps and showers is the most obvious symptom. Radiators will also stop working, either as well as before or altogether.<\/p>\n
Before you assume these issues are caused by a broken motorised valve however, check your boiler\u2019s water pressure. Lots of times, low water pressure will cause hot water to not be supplied as effectively around the house. If your boiler is reading between 1 and 1.5 for its pressure then you can usually rule it out.<\/p>\n
If, however, your boiler pressure is too low<\/a> then we have a list of 6 things to do to remedy this.<\/p>\nDamaged thermocouple<\/h3>\nThermocouple<\/figcaption><\/figure>\nIf you find a cable with dual prongs at one end connected to your boiler then it\u2019s likely the thermocouple. These prongs are electrical conductors and they supply voltage to other devices.<\/p>\n
A thermocouple is an electrical device designed to produce certain levels of voltage depending on the temperature. Otherwise known as a thermoelectric effect, the intention is to use this voltage to measure given temperatures. It does this by converting thermal energy into electrical energy, passing it through a cable and elsewhere.<\/p>\n
So, if the thermocouple was connected to something extremely hot it would produce high levels of voltage. Comparatively, low voltages would signify that little heat is being produced.<\/p>\n
As you can imagine, this is an incredibly useful device as it can monitor the temperature of your boiler. Should it suddenly produce low voltages, then you know there\u2019s something wrong with its ability to produce heat.<\/p>\n
Thermocouples are often paired with other devices like multimeters so you can interpret the readings. Other times they\u2019ll be connected to pilot lights.<\/p>\n
You can spot a broken or damaged thermocouple through:<\/p>\n
\n- Multimeters no longer giving readings<\/li>\n
- Pilot lights either going out or not staying lit<\/li>\n
- Your boiler no longer turning on<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
We list that final sign as boilers are built with certain safety functions. If the connected thermocouple no longer works then the boiler wont either. This is to ensure it cannot be turned on while you lack the means to monitor its heat output.<\/p>\n
Typical causes of thermocouple damage come from what\u2019s called \u201cmetal fatigue\u201d. This means that, over time, the metal conductors will have been worn down. Mostly this is due to age, but it can also be due to constant changes in temperature.<\/p>\n
Faulty pump<\/h3>\n
Central heating systems all have a pump that receives hot water from the boiler and circulates it throughout the house. If it\u2019s damaged, or degrades over time, then your home will be unable to properly heat itself.<\/p>\n
A telltale sign that the heating pump is faulty is if your boiler is leaky or noisy. Alternatively, if your radiators stop producing heat (either in part or altogether) then this is another sign.<\/p>\n
A faulty pump can arise from a few causes. Primarily, a pump will stop working when the internal propeller gets stuck. This will cause an air lock as the air that needs to pass through it cannot.<\/p>\n
What are the signs that I have a faulty boiler?<\/h2>\n
If you\u2019ve noticed any of the issues that can be caused by the equipment listed above, then it might be time to call a professional. However, that list isn\u2019t exhaustive and doesn\u2019t cover some of the more generic problems that you might experience.<\/p>\n
As such, Quotatis have also compiled the list below to look at things from the other end, so to speak. Instead of examining how components work and what problems they might cause when broken, this list is problem-centric.<\/p>\n
This is designed more for people who are currently experiencing problems and need to know what\u2019s causing it. The section above is better suited to those who want to expand their boiler knowledge and prepare for future problems.<\/p>\n
With that in mind, let\u2019s take a look at some of the most common signs that you have a faulty boiler:<\/p>\n
Age<\/h3>\n
One of the first things you should check is how old your current boiler is. The typical lifespan of the appliance will vary slightly between makes and brands. However, as a general rule every boiler can start to significantly degrade in quality after 5 years.<\/p>\n
If you\u2019ve had your boiler for over 5 years, it\u2019s worth thinking about getting it repaired or replaced.<\/p>\n
Boilers usually come with a warranty, so make sure to find out how long that covers you for. Most will be between 1-3 years, but select brands and deals can offer you a 5+ year warranty. Fixing any problems within your warranty period will obviously drastically decrease your boiler repair cost.<\/p>\n
If your boiler is around 5 years old and starts having issues, repairs are sometimes still a worthwhile investment. Check with a trained professional first though, one that can physically inspect your system. 6 years or older however, and repairs become increasingly lower value for money. This is due to the higher frequency of issues and repairs it will need. The older your boiler is, the more likely it is that you are better off simply replacing it.<\/p>\n
Boiler protection measures<\/h3>\n
Another indicator that you have, or could have, a faulty boiler comes down to whether you have boiler protection.<\/p>\n
There are multiple forms of boiler protection. These include:<\/p>\n
\n- Scale reducers<\/strong> \u2013 installed in the water tank to prevent the build-up of limescale.<\/li>\n
- Boiler filter<\/strong> \u2013 this makes sure that any rust or dirt that accumulates gets caught and doesn\u2019t circulate throughout the system.<\/li>\n
- Central heating inhibitor<\/strong> \u2013 designed to isolate dirt and rust within the connecting pipes that isn\u2019t caught by a boiler filter. Its purpose is to break these elements down, improving waterflow.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Assuming your boiler has one or all of these, they can (as with most components) degrade over time. Additionally, some boilers don\u2019t actually come with these installed. In those cases, your system definitely needs repairs \u2013 if only to have these things fitted.<\/p>\n
Preventing the accumulation of dirt, rust and limescale is critical to the long-term health of a boiler.<\/p>\n
In the event that there\u2019s a limescale build-up, so-called hotspots can develop. These areas concentrate heat and in doing so can cause cracks to form.<\/p>\n
Furthermore, the filtration capabilities of a central heating inhibitor are so important that the lack of one in a boiler is a common cause of warranties being rendered non-binding.<\/p>\n
Boiler won\u2019t turn on<\/h3>\n
This issue is more common than you\u2019d think. It also isn\u2019t as much of a cause for concern as it initially feels. Oftentimes when a boiler won\u2019t start, it\u2019s because one of its safety measures have kicked in. So, while this does signal your boiler needs repairs it also indicates that it\u2019s working correctly and, importantly, safely.<\/p>\n
Typical reasons for this include damage to the boiler fan<\/strong> and the thermocouple<\/strong>.<\/p>\nWhile these aren\u2019t the cheapest components to repair, they are vitally important to the function and safety of the appliance.<\/p>\n
Radiators<\/h3>\n
<\/p>\n
One of the easier signs to spot. You\u2019ll soon realise whether or not the heating is working properly when you turn it on in the winter and it doesn\u2019t feel at all warmer.<\/p>\n
There are many reasons that your radiators can be functioning at sub-optimal levels.<\/p>\n
First, the radiators themselves might be damaged. You can solve inconsistent heat from radiators either through bleeding them, or hiring an engineer to flush them.<\/p>\n
Second, radiator issues can arise from problems directly related to your boiler. Usually it will be either a motorised valve or pump that has failed and affect the radiators.<\/p>\n
Leaks<\/h3>\n
By contrast, leaks can be harder to spot straight away. This is especially true if your boiler is enclosed in a pantry or cupboard-like space.<\/p>\n
Leaks tend to be caused by one of two key elements failing: the pump<\/strong> or the pump seal<\/strong>. Otherwise though, if any part of the boiler that deals with water develops cracks then leaks can appear. This is a notorious problem for old pipes, for example.<\/p>\nLeaks are also tricky because, if not dealt with quickly, they can cause other problems. Should water come into contact with the boiler\u2019s circuit board then you can expect a cascade of problems to deal with. Solving this early is therefore key to keeping the boiler repair cost low.<\/p>\n
Pilot light<\/h3>\n
Of all the components that can stop working, the pilot light is designed to be easily identifiable when it does. Moreover, the pilot light only tends to cease lighting for one reason (aside from being broken itself).<\/p>\n
If you inspect your boiler and find the light off, then it is almost certain that the thermocouple has degraded due to metal fatigue.<\/p>\n
What should I do if I smell gas coming from my boiler?<\/h2>\n
If you smell gas coming from your boiler, then you need to take more immediate action.<\/p>\n
Call 0800 111 999 \u2013 this is the Gas Emergency Services line. It\u2019s free to call and can advise you on what to do if you believe you have a gas leak.<\/p>\n
Unlike some of the problems above, this is not a harmless issue. Gas odours can be a sign that your boiler is emitting carbon monoxide, which is poisonous. As such, it\u2019s important if you do think you smell gas to remain calm and call the number above immediately.<\/p>\n
When should I replace my boiler?<\/h2>\n
Most of the time, the issues above can be solved with some simple repairs. The average boiler repair cost isn\u2019t too high and it shouldn\u2019t take too long. However, there are cases where repairs are insufficient or inefficient.<\/p>\n
Replacements cost much more than the typical boiler repair cost. They also take far longer, as they require an inspection followed by a complete removal and installation process. As such, replacements should be viewed as something of a final option.<\/p>\n
In terms of repairs being insufficient, there will come a time when your boiler is just too old. To a certain degree it won\u2019t matter if you repair it. More problems are sure to crop up and sooner than they did last time.<\/p>\n
This leads into the point about inefficiency. Sooner or later, you won\u2019t be saving any money by repairing instead of replacing, because the repairs are so frequent. A wiser investment with older boilers is to pay the higher upfront costs to avoid continual expenses down the line.<\/p>\n
Another way of looking at the efficiency problem is through its energy rating. Lots of older boilers rank lower on this, often at around C or D grade. By contrast, more modern appliances might be more expensive but they can carry A grade energy efficiency.<\/p>\n
Over time you\u2019ll earn back some of the boiler replacement cost through the money you save on monthly bills.<\/p>\n
Before you replace your boiler though, it\u2019s worth researching what the best combi boiler<\/a> on the market is.<\/p>\nDo I need to hire a professional?<\/h2>\n
Under no circumstances should you try to service and repair your own boiler. It is a complicated appliance that requires lots of training to correctly repair. Not only is it incredibly dangerous to attempt DIY repairs, but you can also make the existing damages worse.<\/p>\n
If this happens, you\u2019ll not only increase your final boiler repair cost, but you\u2019re also likely to void any warranties.<\/p>\n
Fixing a boiler requires a qualified specialist.<\/p>\n
There are two kinds of qualifications to look out for. Older boilers will need someone who is a registered engineer with OFTEC. Gas boilers, by comparison, require someone who is a Gas Safe registered engineer.<\/p>\n
British Gas<\/a> offer repair services, on both annually charged cover services and individual cases. Compare their prices with those of local tradespeople for the best deals.<\/p>\nWhat will a boiler repair specialist do to fix your problems?<\/h2>\n
When you call out an engineer for repairs, you may be curious to know exactly what it is they\u2019ll do. While the exact process will differ depending on what needs repairing, there is a general set of tasks they\u2019ll conduct.<\/p>\n
To begin with, an engineer will conduct a few preliminary tasks. Namely, this will consist of some basic checks for leaks, cracks and things of that nature. After that, they\u2019ll take off the boiler casing in order to diagnose any internal problems.<\/p>\n
At this point they\u2019ll remove broken parts and install new ones if and when they need to.<\/p>\n
Once all of that is done, the specialist will put the casing back on. They\u2019ll ensure it is properly sealed to prevent further issues. Then the engineer will check the gas pressure.<\/p>\n
Finally, as long as everything else is fixed and inspected, they\u2019ll conduct a flue test. This is where they make sure that your boiler isn\u2019t producing any toxic gases, such as carbon monoxide. Of course, if you\u2019ve called them out specifically for this then this step will come much earlier.<\/p>\n
How much does boiler repair cost?<\/h2>\n
The average boiler repair cost is about \u00a3225<\/strong> in the UK, with the wider range being between \u00a390 and \u00a3450<\/strong>. However, these figures are estimates.<\/p>\nYour boiler repair cost is a somewhat variable figure, that\u2019s made up of a few different elements. Specifically, your expenses will include:<\/p>\n
\n- The cost of new parts<\/li>\n
- Labour<\/li>\n
- Ongoing fees (in case you buy boiler cover)<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
New boiler part cost<\/h3>\n
- \n
- What is it?<\/a><\/li>\n
- How much does a boiler repair cost in [phpmu snippet=3]?<\/a><\/li>\n
- Is it worth it?<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/li>\n
- How long does it take to repair or replace a boiler?<\/a><\/li>\n
- Get a quote<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
Before you start<\/h2>\n
There are a few things you should consider before you call out a heating engineer<\/a> to repair or replace your boiler<\/a>.<\/p>\n
Budget<\/h3>\n
Budgeting is important<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n In emergency cases, this may not be as relevant. However, if you\u2019re looking to get your boiler repaired or replaced before you\u2019re forced to by a breakdown, then budgeting is key.<\/p>\n
Boiler repair costs will rarely be below \u00a3100, which is not an insignificant amount of money. For many, fixing a boiler before you absolutely have to might seem an unnecessary expense.<\/p>\n
This is why it\u2019s important that you set out a clear budget beforehand.<\/p>\n
There are plenty of other expenses to plan for when it comes to maintaining a home, so prioritise. Are your windows in a state of disrepair, or does your front door need an update? These may be more pressing concerns, more deserving of a limited budget.<\/p>\n
Of course, if you\u2019re repairing a boiler that has ceased functioning altogether, then budgeting takes on a different role. Consider whether you want to pay more for a full replacement, or if boiler repair costs are high enough already.<\/p>\n
Scheduling<\/h3>\n
Once you\u2019ve set out your budget, it\u2019s time to figure out when the right time for a service will be.<\/p>\n
Boiler repair doesn\u2019t take an overly long time, but a total replacement can take much longer. With this in mind, if you can schedule replacement jobs for the weekend that is likely an ideal situation.<\/p>\n
Typical boiler problems<\/h2>\n
Boilers are complicated appliances with lots of components, all of which can fail in various ways. Additionally, there are multiple kinds of boilers with each one having unique ways it can fail.<\/p>\n
With all this in mind, this list of potential issues is designed to be as comprehensive as possible.<\/p>\n
For more specific advice on condensing and non-condensing boilers<\/a>, check out our dedicated article.<\/p>\n
Faulty circuit board<\/h3>\n
The circuit board is the heart of any household appliance. From here, power is routed to wherever it needs to go and regulated to the correct levels.<\/p>\n
Warning signs of a faulty circuit board include:<\/p>\n
- \n
- General loss of power<\/li>\n
- Flickering lights<\/li>\n
- Only working on and off<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Note that a circuit board is different from a fuse box, although both play a role in how electricity is distributed to an appliance.<\/p>\n
We bring this up because, if you believe your boiler has an electrical fault, you should check the fuse first. This is the most common area for electrical issues. However, if the boiler\u2019s fuse is fine then it is possible the circuit has become unfit for use.<\/p>\n
It\u2019s rare that a circuit board can be fixed \u2013 instead, a brand new one should be installed.<\/p>\n
Furthermore, it can often be difficult to diagnose the root cause of a damaged circuit board. Power surges can cause it to short circuit, but more commonly the issue will develop from a crack or a boiler leak. In that case, you\u2019ll also have to fix the leak itself as well as ordering and fitting a replacement circuit board.<\/p>\n
Broken pump seal<\/h3>\n
Pump seals are different to the pumps mentioned later on. Their role is to ensure that any water passing through a pump goes where it should go. This is to say, pump seals ensure the boiler doesn\u2019t leak.<\/p>\n
Recognising that your pump seal is non-functional then is rather simple \u2013 do you have a leak? If the answer is yes, you could have a broken pump seal.<\/p>\n
It\u2019s very rare that anything other than the natural degradation of the product will cause this. If you have a leak but recently replaced the pump seal, the issue may be caused by another malfunctioning component.<\/p>\n
Fixing this requires an entirely new seal. Repairs are impractical, as the seal must be air tight to function and its structural integrity is already compromised. It\u2019s also fairly inexpensive to buy a new pump seal, so it won\u2019t raise your boiler repair cost too much.<\/p>\n
Damaged boiler fan<\/h3>\n
Combi boiler – fan motor<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n Boiler fans are a crucial part of the whole appliance. So, if this isn\u2019t working it\u2019s imperative you get it fixed as soon as possible.<\/p>\n
The purpose of a boiler fan is to ventilate any harmful gases from your boiler and into the outdoors. Its functionality is vital to the safety of your home. The upside to this is that if your boiler fan is faulty, the circuit board is designed to detect this. In doing so, it will cut power to the rest of the appliance, preventing you from using it and creating harmful gases.<\/p>\n
You will notice the boiler fan isn\u2019t working if an air fault code begins to display on your boiler.<\/p>\n
These damages can be caused by repeated and consistent use. Over time the fan mechanism will wear down and burn out. On the other hand, the bearings that hold it in place can also decay or simply come loose.<\/p>\n
Unfortunately, because boiler fans need to be so robust, they must be replaced when broken \u2013 and replacements aren\u2019t cheap. Faulty fans can be a significant factor in high boiler repairs costs.<\/p>\n
Faulty motorised valve<\/h3>\n
The motorised valve is another integral part that helps direct and regulate the hot water produced by your boiler.<\/p>\n
If it breaks then a few things can happen. A lack of hot water being supplied to taps and showers is the most obvious symptom. Radiators will also stop working, either as well as before or altogether.<\/p>\n
Before you assume these issues are caused by a broken motorised valve however, check your boiler\u2019s water pressure. Lots of times, low water pressure will cause hot water to not be supplied as effectively around the house. If your boiler is reading between 1 and 1.5 for its pressure then you can usually rule it out.<\/p>\n
If, however, your boiler pressure is too low<\/a> then we have a list of 6 things to do to remedy this.<\/p>\n
Damaged thermocouple<\/h3>\n
Thermocouple<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n If you find a cable with dual prongs at one end connected to your boiler then it\u2019s likely the thermocouple. These prongs are electrical conductors and they supply voltage to other devices.<\/p>\n
A thermocouple is an electrical device designed to produce certain levels of voltage depending on the temperature. Otherwise known as a thermoelectric effect, the intention is to use this voltage to measure given temperatures. It does this by converting thermal energy into electrical energy, passing it through a cable and elsewhere.<\/p>\n
So, if the thermocouple was connected to something extremely hot it would produce high levels of voltage. Comparatively, low voltages would signify that little heat is being produced.<\/p>\n
As you can imagine, this is an incredibly useful device as it can monitor the temperature of your boiler. Should it suddenly produce low voltages, then you know there\u2019s something wrong with its ability to produce heat.<\/p>\n
Thermocouples are often paired with other devices like multimeters so you can interpret the readings. Other times they\u2019ll be connected to pilot lights.<\/p>\n
You can spot a broken or damaged thermocouple through:<\/p>\n
- \n
- Multimeters no longer giving readings<\/li>\n
- Pilot lights either going out or not staying lit<\/li>\n
- Your boiler no longer turning on<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
We list that final sign as boilers are built with certain safety functions. If the connected thermocouple no longer works then the boiler wont either. This is to ensure it cannot be turned on while you lack the means to monitor its heat output.<\/p>\n
Typical causes of thermocouple damage come from what\u2019s called \u201cmetal fatigue\u201d. This means that, over time, the metal conductors will have been worn down. Mostly this is due to age, but it can also be due to constant changes in temperature.<\/p>\n
Faulty pump<\/h3>\n
Central heating systems all have a pump that receives hot water from the boiler and circulates it throughout the house. If it\u2019s damaged, or degrades over time, then your home will be unable to properly heat itself.<\/p>\n
A telltale sign that the heating pump is faulty is if your boiler is leaky or noisy. Alternatively, if your radiators stop producing heat (either in part or altogether) then this is another sign.<\/p>\n
A faulty pump can arise from a few causes. Primarily, a pump will stop working when the internal propeller gets stuck. This will cause an air lock as the air that needs to pass through it cannot.<\/p>\n
What are the signs that I have a faulty boiler?<\/h2>\n
If you\u2019ve noticed any of the issues that can be caused by the equipment listed above, then it might be time to call a professional. However, that list isn\u2019t exhaustive and doesn\u2019t cover some of the more generic problems that you might experience.<\/p>\n
As such, Quotatis have also compiled the list below to look at things from the other end, so to speak. Instead of examining how components work and what problems they might cause when broken, this list is problem-centric.<\/p>\n
This is designed more for people who are currently experiencing problems and need to know what\u2019s causing it. The section above is better suited to those who want to expand their boiler knowledge and prepare for future problems.<\/p>\n
With that in mind, let\u2019s take a look at some of the most common signs that you have a faulty boiler:<\/p>\n
Age<\/h3>\n
One of the first things you should check is how old your current boiler is. The typical lifespan of the appliance will vary slightly between makes and brands. However, as a general rule every boiler can start to significantly degrade in quality after 5 years.<\/p>\n
If you\u2019ve had your boiler for over 5 years, it\u2019s worth thinking about getting it repaired or replaced.<\/p>\n
Boilers usually come with a warranty, so make sure to find out how long that covers you for. Most will be between 1-3 years, but select brands and deals can offer you a 5+ year warranty. Fixing any problems within your warranty period will obviously drastically decrease your boiler repair cost.<\/p>\n
If your boiler is around 5 years old and starts having issues, repairs are sometimes still a worthwhile investment. Check with a trained professional first though, one that can physically inspect your system. 6 years or older however, and repairs become increasingly lower value for money. This is due to the higher frequency of issues and repairs it will need. The older your boiler is, the more likely it is that you are better off simply replacing it.<\/p>\n
Boiler protection measures<\/h3>\n
Another indicator that you have, or could have, a faulty boiler comes down to whether you have boiler protection.<\/p>\n
There are multiple forms of boiler protection. These include:<\/p>\n
- \n
- Scale reducers<\/strong> \u2013 installed in the water tank to prevent the build-up of limescale.<\/li>\n
- Boiler filter<\/strong> \u2013 this makes sure that any rust or dirt that accumulates gets caught and doesn\u2019t circulate throughout the system.<\/li>\n
- Central heating inhibitor<\/strong> \u2013 designed to isolate dirt and rust within the connecting pipes that isn\u2019t caught by a boiler filter. Its purpose is to break these elements down, improving waterflow.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Assuming your boiler has one or all of these, they can (as with most components) degrade over time. Additionally, some boilers don\u2019t actually come with these installed. In those cases, your system definitely needs repairs \u2013 if only to have these things fitted.<\/p>\n
Preventing the accumulation of dirt, rust and limescale is critical to the long-term health of a boiler.<\/p>\n
In the event that there\u2019s a limescale build-up, so-called hotspots can develop. These areas concentrate heat and in doing so can cause cracks to form.<\/p>\n
Furthermore, the filtration capabilities of a central heating inhibitor are so important that the lack of one in a boiler is a common cause of warranties being rendered non-binding.<\/p>\n
Boiler won\u2019t turn on<\/h3>\n
This issue is more common than you\u2019d think. It also isn\u2019t as much of a cause for concern as it initially feels. Oftentimes when a boiler won\u2019t start, it\u2019s because one of its safety measures have kicked in. So, while this does signal your boiler needs repairs it also indicates that it\u2019s working correctly and, importantly, safely.<\/p>\n
Typical reasons for this include damage to the boiler fan<\/strong> and the thermocouple<\/strong>.<\/p>\n
While these aren\u2019t the cheapest components to repair, they are vitally important to the function and safety of the appliance.<\/p>\n
Radiators<\/h3>\n
<\/p>\nOne of the easier signs to spot. You\u2019ll soon realise whether or not the heating is working properly when you turn it on in the winter and it doesn\u2019t feel at all warmer.<\/p>\n
There are many reasons that your radiators can be functioning at sub-optimal levels.<\/p>\n
First, the radiators themselves might be damaged. You can solve inconsistent heat from radiators either through bleeding them, or hiring an engineer to flush them.<\/p>\n
Second, radiator issues can arise from problems directly related to your boiler. Usually it will be either a motorised valve or pump that has failed and affect the radiators.<\/p>\n
Leaks<\/h3>\n
By contrast, leaks can be harder to spot straight away. This is especially true if your boiler is enclosed in a pantry or cupboard-like space.<\/p>\n
Leaks tend to be caused by one of two key elements failing: the pump<\/strong> or the pump seal<\/strong>. Otherwise though, if any part of the boiler that deals with water develops cracks then leaks can appear. This is a notorious problem for old pipes, for example.<\/p>\n
Leaks are also tricky because, if not dealt with quickly, they can cause other problems. Should water come into contact with the boiler\u2019s circuit board then you can expect a cascade of problems to deal with. Solving this early is therefore key to keeping the boiler repair cost low.<\/p>\n
Pilot light<\/h3>\n
Of all the components that can stop working, the pilot light is designed to be easily identifiable when it does. Moreover, the pilot light only tends to cease lighting for one reason (aside from being broken itself).<\/p>\n
If you inspect your boiler and find the light off, then it is almost certain that the thermocouple has degraded due to metal fatigue.<\/p>\n
What should I do if I smell gas coming from my boiler?<\/h2>\n
If you smell gas coming from your boiler, then you need to take more immediate action.<\/p>\n
Call 0800 111 999 \u2013 this is the Gas Emergency Services line. It\u2019s free to call and can advise you on what to do if you believe you have a gas leak.<\/p>\n
Unlike some of the problems above, this is not a harmless issue. Gas odours can be a sign that your boiler is emitting carbon monoxide, which is poisonous. As such, it\u2019s important if you do think you smell gas to remain calm and call the number above immediately.<\/p>\n
When should I replace my boiler?<\/h2>\n
Most of the time, the issues above can be solved with some simple repairs. The average boiler repair cost isn\u2019t too high and it shouldn\u2019t take too long. However, there are cases where repairs are insufficient or inefficient.<\/p>\n
Replacements cost much more than the typical boiler repair cost. They also take far longer, as they require an inspection followed by a complete removal and installation process. As such, replacements should be viewed as something of a final option.<\/p>\n
In terms of repairs being insufficient, there will come a time when your boiler is just too old. To a certain degree it won\u2019t matter if you repair it. More problems are sure to crop up and sooner than they did last time.<\/p>\n
This leads into the point about inefficiency. Sooner or later, you won\u2019t be saving any money by repairing instead of replacing, because the repairs are so frequent. A wiser investment with older boilers is to pay the higher upfront costs to avoid continual expenses down the line.<\/p>\n
Another way of looking at the efficiency problem is through its energy rating. Lots of older boilers rank lower on this, often at around C or D grade. By contrast, more modern appliances might be more expensive but they can carry A grade energy efficiency.<\/p>\n
Over time you\u2019ll earn back some of the boiler replacement cost through the money you save on monthly bills.<\/p>\n
Before you replace your boiler though, it\u2019s worth researching what the best combi boiler<\/a> on the market is.<\/p>\n
Do I need to hire a professional?<\/h2>\n
Under no circumstances should you try to service and repair your own boiler. It is a complicated appliance that requires lots of training to correctly repair. Not only is it incredibly dangerous to attempt DIY repairs, but you can also make the existing damages worse.<\/p>\n
If this happens, you\u2019ll not only increase your final boiler repair cost, but you\u2019re also likely to void any warranties.<\/p>\n
Fixing a boiler requires a qualified specialist.<\/p>\n
There are two kinds of qualifications to look out for. Older boilers will need someone who is a registered engineer with OFTEC. Gas boilers, by comparison, require someone who is a Gas Safe registered engineer.<\/p>\n
British Gas<\/a> offer repair services, on both annually charged cover services and individual cases. Compare their prices with those of local tradespeople for the best deals.<\/p>\n
What will a boiler repair specialist do to fix your problems?<\/h2>\n
When you call out an engineer for repairs, you may be curious to know exactly what it is they\u2019ll do. While the exact process will differ depending on what needs repairing, there is a general set of tasks they\u2019ll conduct.<\/p>\n
To begin with, an engineer will conduct a few preliminary tasks. Namely, this will consist of some basic checks for leaks, cracks and things of that nature. After that, they\u2019ll take off the boiler casing in order to diagnose any internal problems.<\/p>\n
At this point they\u2019ll remove broken parts and install new ones if and when they need to.<\/p>\n
Once all of that is done, the specialist will put the casing back on. They\u2019ll ensure it is properly sealed to prevent further issues. Then the engineer will check the gas pressure.<\/p>\n
Finally, as long as everything else is fixed and inspected, they\u2019ll conduct a flue test. This is where they make sure that your boiler isn\u2019t producing any toxic gases, such as carbon monoxide. Of course, if you\u2019ve called them out specifically for this then this step will come much earlier.<\/p>\n
How much does boiler repair cost?<\/h2>\n
The average boiler repair cost is about \u00a3225<\/strong> in the UK, with the wider range being between \u00a390 and \u00a3450<\/strong>. However, these figures are estimates.<\/p>\n
Your boiler repair cost is a somewhat variable figure, that\u2019s made up of a few different elements. Specifically, your expenses will include:<\/p>\n
- \n
- The cost of new parts<\/li>\n
- Labour<\/li>\n
- Ongoing fees (in case you buy boiler cover)<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
New boiler part cost<\/h3>\n
- Boiler filter<\/strong> \u2013 this makes sure that any rust or dirt that accumulates gets caught and doesn\u2019t circulate throughout the system.<\/li>\n
- Scale reducers<\/strong> \u2013 installed in the water tank to prevent the build-up of limescale.<\/li>\n
- How much does a boiler repair cost in [phpmu snippet=3]?<\/a><\/li>\n
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