Top Signs That Your Boiler Might Need To Be Repaired Or Replaced November 21, 2017 Boilers are complicated. When they work, they’re great. When they don’t, it’s not so great - from cold showers to cold homes and a terrible start to the week. Sometimes they just break out of the blue, but often there are warning signs. In an attempt to limit the potential sudden shock of a boiler break, we’ve compiled a list of signs to look out for, for all of our customers across Hertfordshire! Sign #1 - Cold waterA lack of hot water running through the taps is perhaps the most obvious of signs. This might occur as a result of a broken airlock, a failure of the motorised valves or low water levels. Sometimes it might just be a case of waiting for water to accumulate back in the tank; but otherwise it might be best to call out a qualified breakdown engineer so they can make a proper diagnosis. Sign #2 - Low water pressureYou can check the pressure of your water by looking at the pressure gauge. If the figure given is below 1, you might have an issue with your boiler. Low water pressure can result from a leak in the system or it might be a sign that the pressure-release valve needs to be replaced. Sign #3 - Loud bangs or gurgling noisesNoises from the boiler are often caused from trapped air in the system or low water pressure. The noises might also be a sign of imminent pump failure. It is recommended that you call out a qualified gas engineer if you hear any prominent noises coming from your boiler, or risk the need to install a new one. Sign #4 – No heat from radiatorsWhilst poor heat circulation in radiators can often be fixed without too much complication, a need to continuously bleed or rebalance the radiator might be a sign of a much deeper problem. Sign #5 – KettlingKettling is named as such because the noise that comes from the boiler resembles the same noise that a kettle makes as it boils. A boiler might make this noise as a result of a build up of lime scale and sludge on the heat exchanger. It is most common in areas with hard water, like Hertfordshire, although soft water areas can also suffer with the same issue. If your boiler makes this noise, it is recommended that you call out a qualified gas engineer to likely repair and flush out the system. Sign #6 – Leaky pipesThe most common cause for a leaky pipe is a break in either the pump seal or pressure valve. A leak from the pressure valve might be as a result of the boiler pressure being too high, whilst a leak from the pump seal might be a sign that it has worn out and needs to be replaced. Either way, it is imperative that you call out a qualified gas engineer to fix a leaky pipe.Sign #7 – Boiler keeps on turning off If your boiler keeps on turning off, it might be a sign that there is an issue with the water pressure, thermostat or there are frozen condensate pipes. Whichever it is, it’s an indication that your boiler might be in need of repair. Remember, it’s best to get a certified gas engineer to repair/replace your boiler if you’re unsure. If you notice any of these signs, feel free to contact us on 07877 178198 or 01438 518368 or email us at ytplumbingandheating@yahoo.com and we can be on hand to assist. We cover Hertfordshire and the surrounding areas. In the meantime, you can read more about our boiler repair services here.