Boiler Breakdowns: Causes, Prevention, and Solutions

A boiler breakdown can be one of the most inconvenient and stressful household issues, especially during the colder months. Without heating or hot water, everyday tasks become a challenge, and repairs can be costly. At Burns Heating, we’re here to help you understand why boilers fail, how to prevent breakdowns, and what to do when your boiler stops working.

Common Causes of Boiler Breakdowns

Several factors can contribute to a boiler failure. Understanding these can help you take preventative measures:

1. Low Pressure – If your boiler’s pressure drops too low, it won’t function correctly. This could be due to a water leak, bleeding radiators, or a faulty pressure relief valve.

2. Frozen Condensate Pipe – In winter, the condensate pipe can freeze, causing blockages that prevent the boiler from working properly.

3. Thermostat Issues – A faulty thermostat may cause the boiler to misread temperatures, leading to heating inefficiencies or failure.

4. Pilot Light or Ignition Problems – Older boilers with pilot lights can experience ignition issues due to a broken thermocouple or gas supply problems.

5. Blocked or Sludged-Up System – Over time, sludge and debris can build up in the system, restricting water flow and affecting boiler efficiency.

6. Worn-Out Parts – Boilers contain several components that wear out over time, including pumps, fans, and valves.

7. Gas or Electrical Supply Issues – A boiler needs a steady gas or electrical supply. If there’s an issue with either, the boiler may fail to ignite or run properly.

How to Prevent Boiler Breakdowns

Prevention is always better than a costly repair. Here are some tips to keep your boiler in good working condition:

• Schedule Annual Servicing – A professional boiler service helps detect issues before they become major problems.

• Check Boiler Pressure Regularly – Maintaining the correct pressure ensures efficient operation.

• Bleed Radiators – This removes trapped air that can reduce efficiency and cause uneven heating.

• Protect Your Condensate Pipe in Winter – Insulating the pipe or running warm water over it in freezing conditions can prevent freezing.

• Install a Magnetic Filter – This helps capture sludge and debris, improving water circulation and system longevity.

What to Do If Your Boiler Breaks Down

If your boiler stops working, follow these steps before calling a professional:

1. Check the Power and Gas Supply – Ensure there’s no disruption in your home’s gas or electrical supply.

2. Inspect the Thermostat – Sometimes, the issue is as simple as incorrect settings or low battery power.

3. Reset the Boiler – Many modern boilers have a reset button that can resolve minor faults.

4. Check for Error Codes – If your boiler displays an error code, refer to the manual to diagnose the issue.

5. Look for Frozen Pipes – If the weather is cold, check and thaw the condensate pipe if needed.

If these steps don’t resolve the issue, it’s time to call a professional.

Call Burns Heating for Expert Boiler Repairs

At Burns Heating, we specialise in diagnosing and repairing boiler faults quickly and efficiently. Whether it’s a minor issue or a complete breakdown, our Gas Safe registered engineers are ready to help.

Contact us today to schedule a boiler repair and keep your home warm and comfortable!