The majority of boilers break down during the cold winter months. The question is why? After remaining inactive for long periods when they are suddenly pressed into service, they just can’t take the strain and give way, explains a qualified boiler mechanic in Camden.

Some of the problems related to the gadget do not require the expertise of a professional, while you need calling a heating engineer to resolve many other problems.

In the following paragraphs, a reputed boiler repair service provider in Camden discusses some common issues related to the user home improvement gadget.

The boiler does not heat up (or) dispenses no hot water

This is a very common problem, which everyone encounters at least once in a lifetime. Usually, the issues crop up because of reasons like:

• Failure of the motorized valves
• Broken airlocks and diaphragms
• Low water levels
• Defects in the thermostat

It is suggested that you should not try out anything to solve the problem yourself. Rather, call a well trained engineer to carry out the necessary task to fix the problem.

Dripping and leaking

A number of factors may be responsible for your boiler to leak water. The exact cause can only be determined when it is clear where the water is leaking from. Leaks usually cause broken internal components like a pressure valve and a pump seal. Pressure valves usually get defected when your boiler pressure is excessively high. When a boiler leaks around the tank or pipes, corrosion is the reason although in some cases it also happens because of the improper fitting.

In any case, you should never try fixing any boiler leakage issue yourself. Always rely on a qualified well trained engineer for it.   

Kettle-like sound

Do you hear a boiling kettle-like sound when your boiler is operating? This occurs because of sludge or limescale that builds upon the heat exchanging component of the boiler. The buildup prevents the flow of water within the heat exchanger. As a result, the water may overheat forming steam along with making that strange kettle-like noise. This problem is very common in places that are affected by hard water. You can’t afford to ignore the sound because it not only reduces the life of the boiler badly but also inflates the running cost of the gadget. Call a well trained engineer to handle such issues.

Pilot light goes off

 A tiny blue flame that lights up the burner is called the pilot light. When this light goes out, there must be broken thermocouple that stops the gas supply. Else, it can be a draught or a build-up deposited around the light. You can try to fix this problem yourself. First try to ensure the gas supply to the boiler system is alright. In case you find out that even when the gas stopcock is on the boiler receives no gas supply or none of the gas appliances is functioning properly – contact the gas supplier. If your attempt doesn’t click, get a well trained engineer to solve the problem.

Low pressure in the boiler

Taking a look at the in-built pressure gauge is all you’ve to do to check the boiler pressure, suggests a mechanic dealing in thermostat & central heating controls. If the reading shows below 1, you have an issue with boiler pressure that may affect the central heating system in your home. The reasons behind the problem include the following:

• Water leakage in the system
• The pressure relief valve may require a replacement
• Radiator malfunctioning

To mend a visible leak, you need a qualified expert by all means.

Condensate pipe when frozen

Every condensate boiler includes a condensate pipe. It is meant to drain out the acidic water, which is formed due to the mixing of the waste gas with the water in the boiler. This acidic water is likely to get frozen during winters. Boilers usually show a false code or a notification popup when this pipe freezes. Try pouring hot water (and not boiling) over it. If your attempt yields no result, don’t hesitate to hire a qualified plumber.

Problems with the thermostat

Thermostats come with predefined life. When they start losing accuracy, it’s time to replace with new ones. But it is worth to check a thing or two first before disposing of an existing thermostat. First, check if it is in the ‘on’ position and ensure it is on the right setting in terms of time and schedule.  

Whistling, banging and gurgling noise

There can be several factors behind this problem, ranging from:

• Low water pressure
• Pump failure
• The existing system has become too old
• Air trapped inside the system

These strange noises make many people feel unsafe. You should better summon a qualified plumber to settle the issue.

The radiator is not heating up

A sludge buildup is often found responsible for the boiler radiator not properly heating up. If only the radiator bottom is heating up, bleeding the radiator may solve the problem. You can perform this alone without the help of a qualified expert. Balancing the radiator is the second option, which involves adjusting the valves. You can do this yourself too if you feel confident. When none of the strategies proves fruitful, you can only rely on a professional expert to solve the problem.

The boiler automatically switches itself off

The chances are either low water pressure, a thermostat issue, lack of water flow or inappropriate pump circulation is behind the problem. You need a registered Gas Safe engineer to sort out the problem.  

Professionals dealing in radiator maintenance service across Camden are of the opinion that the standard life of any boiler is limited to 10 years. If your boiler is over 10 years, it is better to consider a replacement.