Introduction
Using this guide, you will be able to sort some really simple issues that sometimes stop boilers from working yourself.
Using Your Boiler
Your gas boiler normally has settings where you can switch between two modes:
Heating and hot water: You'll use this mode normally during the colder months.
Hot water only: Use this setting in the summer months when you need hot water, but don't need the heating.
Water Temperature: Set between 45-60 degrees Celsius. Below 45 and it's the ideal temperature for legionella to thrive, over 60, you have a risk of scalding.
No Heating Or Hot Water
If your heating or hot water is not working, try these troubleshooting steps:
Check there is power to the boiler. Look nearby for a switch and check that it is on.
Make sure the timer and thermostat are set correctly.
Check the pressure gauge - it should have a reading between 1 and 2. If it has dropped below 1, it will need topping up.
Once you have topped up the pressure, you may need to reset your boiler.
Check the mode switch to see that you have selected both heating and hot water.
Heating and Boiler Pressure
Most heating systems are pressurised to push hot water around the radiators. If the pressure drops below a certain level then your boiler may stop working.
The ideal pressure for your boiler is 1.5 bar.
How to repressurise a heating system
Most boilers are topped up using a filler loop which is normally a flexible hose or copper piping with either one or two valves.
Turn the valve 45 degrees until you hear a hissing sound.
Watch the pressure gauge move to around 1.5 bar.
Close the valve(s) fully.
Radiator Not Working / Bleeding a Radiator
If only part of your radiator gets warm, you'll need to bleed it:
Turn off heating and wait for radiators to cool.
Insert radiator key into the bleed valve (top corner).
Slowly turn counter-clockwise until you hear hissing.
When water drips out, close the valve.
Check boiler pressure and repressurise if needed.
