What Not to Do When Your Boiler Stops Working

What Not to Do When Your Boiler Stops Working A sudden boiler breakdown can be frustrating, especially during cold weather. However, staying calm and taking the right steps are essential to avoid causing further damage or putting yourself at risk.

What Not to Do When Your Boiler Stops Working?

Here are some important things you should never do when your boiler stops working:

Do Not Attempt DIY Repairs

One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is trying to fix the boiler themselves. Boilers are complex systems that involve gas, electricity, and water. If you don’t have the necessary skills or training, attempting a DIY repair can be extremely dangerous and may lead to gas leaks, carbon monoxide poisoning, or severe damage to the boiler. Always leave the repairs to a Gas Safe registered engineer.

2. Don’t Ignore Warning Signs

If your boiler has been making strange noises, displaying error codes, or leaking water, never ignore these warning signs. These could indicate a serious underlying problem. Ignoring such signs can lead to complete system failure or expensive repairs. Instead, call a professional gas engineer immediately.

3. Avoid Relighting the Pilot Light Repeatedly

If your boiler’s pilot light keeps going out, do not repeatedly attempt to relight it. This could indicate a gas supply problem, a faulty thermocouple, or another mechanical issue. Continuously trying to relight it may result in a gas leak or fire hazard. It’s best to turn off the boiler and contact a qualified heating engineer.

Don’t Reset the Boiler Continuously

Some people keep resetting their boilers, hoping that it will start working again. While a reset may sometimes work for minor issues, continuously resetting it without identifying the root cause can cause long-term damage to the internal components. Instead, call a boiler engineer to inspect the issue.

Never Block Ventilation Openings

If your boiler has external flues or ventilation systems, ensure they are clear and unblocked. Blocking these vents can prevent the boiler from functioning properly and may also result in carbon monoxide buildup, which can be deadly. Always make sure there is proper airflow around the boiler.

Do Not Attempt to Adjust Gas Pressure

Boilers operate on a specific gas pressure to function safely and efficiently. Adjusting the gas pressure without the right tools or knowledge is extremely dangerous. This can lead to gas leaks or boiler explosions. If you suspect a gas pressure issue, turn off the boiler immediately and call a Gas Safe registered engineer.

Avoid Using Electrical Appliances Nearby

If you notice any water leakage from your boiler, avoid using electrical appliances near it. Water can damage electrical components or cause electrical shocks. Turn off the power supply to the boiler and call a professional for assistance.

Don’t Leave It Unattended for Long Periods

If your boiler has stopped working, do not leave it unattended for a long time, especially in freezing weather. This can lead to frozen pipes, causing more damage. Instead, contact a professional heating engineer immediately to diagnose and fix the problem.

Avoid Using Hot Water or Heating from the Boiler

If your boiler is not working, do not keep trying to use hot water or turn on the heating. This will put extra pressure on the system, potentially causing more internal damage. Turn off the boiler and call an expert to resolve the issue.

Never Delay Professional Help

Lastly, the biggest mistake is delaying professional help. The longer you leave your faulty boiler unchecked, the more severe and costly the damage can become. Always contact a Gas Safe registered engineer as soon as you notice your boiler isn’t working. Prompt repair can save you from major issues later.

What Should You Do Instead?

If your boiler stops working, the best thing to do is:

• Turn off the boiler and power supply.
• Check the thermostat settings and power supply connections.
• Contact a professional heating engineer immediately.
• Avoid using any gas appliances until the issue is resolved.

At K B Plumbing & Heating, we specialize in boiler repairs, servicing, and installations. If your boiler has stopped working, our Gas Safe-registered engineers are available to help you quickly and safely. Contact us today to book an appointment and get your boiler running smoothly again.

👉 Call Us Now: 07740 874614
👉 Visit Our Website: https://fixplumbingheating.com/