When your heating suddenly stops working, it can be tempting to panic and call for emergency help right away. But before you do, there are a few DIY boiler checks you can safely attempt at home. Here in Cheltenham, we at Cotswold Plumbers often find that simple steps like checking boiler pressure or resetting the system can save you both time and money. In this post, we’ll walk you through what you can check yourself, and when it’s time to call a qualified Gas Safe engineer.
It’s worth noting that some issues do require professional care. Annual servicing is essential to ensure your heating system runs efficiently and safely. If you’re due for your next Boiler Service in Cheltenham, our local engineers are always happy to help.
1. Check Your Boiler Display and Reset
Modern boilers display error codes when something isn’t quite right. Before calling an engineer, have a look at the display screen. If there’s an error code showing, make a note of it – this information will be helpful should you need assistance later. Some faults can be cleared with a simple reset. Most boilers have a reset button that returns the system to normal after a minor glitch. Be sure to follow your manufacturer’s manual before performing any reset to avoid causing further issues.
2. Check Boiler Pressure
One of the most common causes of heating problems is low system pressure. On a pressurised boiler, check the gauge. It should usually sit between 1 and 1.5 bar when cold. If it’s below 1 bar, you might need to repressurise the boiler. This process is safe to do yourself if you feel comfortable, but always follow your instruction manual carefully. If pressure drops regularly, it may indicate a small leak in your system, in which case it’s best to contact a certified heating engineer.
3. Inspect the Thermostat Settings
Before assuming there’s a fault, ensure your thermostat hasn’t been accidentally adjusted or turned off. Set the temperature a few degrees higher than usual and check if the heating comes on. You might also need to replace batteries in wireless thermostats. When your heating system still isn’t responding correctly, it could be due to a communication issue between the thermostat and boiler, especially in older systems.
4. Check Radiators for Cold Spots
Another common issue we see during boiler installations in Cheltenham or annual services is trapped air inside radiators. If your radiators are cold at the top and hot at the bottom, bleeding them may restore even heat distribution. Use a radiator key to release trapped air carefully, ensuring a cloth or towel is handy to catch any drips. Once all radiators are bled, recheck the boiler pressure to ensure it’s within the safe range.
5. Inspect the Power and Gas Supply
Sometimes the problem can be as simple as a power switch off or a tripped fuse. Confirm that your boiler has electricity and that the fuse hasn’t been blown. For gas boilers, check other gas appliances – if your hob or fire isn’t functioning, there may be an issue with your gas supply. In this case, do not attempt any DIY repair; contact your supplier or a Gas Safe registered engineer immediately.
6. Defrost a Condensate Pipe (If Frozen)
During colder winter months in Cheltenham, frozen condensate pipes are a frequent culprit behind boiler shutdowns. If your boiler has stopped and displays a fault code related to drainage or freezing, the condensate pipe might be frozen. You can gently pour warm (not boiling) water over the plastic pipe outside to safely defrost it. Once thawed, reset the boiler and it should resume normal operation. To prevent this, consider lagging the external pipe to protect it against frost.
7. Review the Long-Term Health of Your Boiler
If your boiler keeps breaking down or pressure drops repeatedly, it may be time to assess whether it’s nearing the end of its lifespan. Older models often lose efficiency and can become costly to repair. Investing in a new, A-rated system could significantly reduce your energy bills. Check out some of our recent installation projects to see how our local team has helped Cheltenham homeowners upgrade to more efficient heating systems.
When to Call a Professional Engineer
While the above DIY boiler checks are safe and simple, always call a professional if you detect gas smells, water leaks, or strange noises. Never remove boiler panels or attempt to adjust internal components yourself. Professional servicing by trained engineers ensures your heating system remains safe, efficient, and compliant with regulations. For helpful guidance between visits, you can also view our range of how-to videos and energy-saving tips on maintaining your home’s efficiency.
Final Thoughts
Carrying out basic DIY boiler checks before calling an engineer in Cheltenham can help you spot minor issues early, potentially saving costs on callouts or emergency visits. However, regular annual servicing remains essential for safety and system longevity. At Cotswold Plumbers, our experienced engineers take great pride in keeping local homes warm and comfortable all year round.
Contact Cotswold Plumbers today to book your next Boiler Service in Cheltenham and keep your heating system running smoothly and safely.