Common Boiler Problems and How to Fix Them
Is your boiler making strange noises, leaking water, or failing to heat your home? Don’t panic! Go2 Plumbing and Heating Ltd offers expert advice and solutions to some of the most common boiler problems that homeowners in Liverpool, Manchester, Preston, Wigan, and the North West may face. Read on to discover the causes of these problems, how to troubleshoot them, and when it’s time to call in a Gas Safe registered engineer for professional help.
1. No Heat or Hot Water
Problem: One of the most frustrating boiler problems is when your system stops providing heat or hot water. This can be caused by several factors, including low water pressure, faulty thermostats, or issues with the diverter valve. Potential Causes:
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Low boiler pressure
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Broken thermostat
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Blocked diverter valve
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Frozen condensate pipe (especially in winter months)
Solution:
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Check the boiler pressure: Low pressure is often the root cause. Check the pressure gauge on your boiler and top it up to the recommended level (usually between 1 and 1.5 bars).
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Inspect the thermostat: Ensure your thermostat is set to the correct temperature.
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Unfreeze the condensate pipe: If it’s particularly cold, your condensate pipe might have frozen. Carefully thaw it with warm water.
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When to Call a Professional: If the issue persists after troubleshooting, it’s time to contact a Gas Safe engineer for a more in-depth inspection and repair.​
2. Strange Noises from the Boiler
Problem: Is your boiler making banging, whistling, or gurgling noises? These unusual sounds, often referred to as "kettling," can indicate problems with your heating system. Potential Causes:
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Limescale build-up in the heat exchanger
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Air trapped in the system
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Low water pressure
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Faulty pump or valve
Solution:
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Flush the system: Limescale build-up can be cleaned by flushing the system. If you're in an area with hard water (like Liverpool or Manchester), consider installing a magnetic filter to prevent future build-up.
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Bleed the radiators: If air is trapped in the system, it can cause gurgling. Bleeding the radiators will release any air pockets.
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Check the pressure: Make sure the system pressure is adequate to ensure smooth operation.
When to Call a Professional: If the noise continues despite your efforts, it’s best to get in touch with a professional heating engineer who can inspect and clean the system.
3. Boiler Leaking Water
Problem: A leaking boiler is a serious issue and can lead to water damage in your home. If you notice water pooling around your boiler, don’t ignore it. Potential Causes:
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Loose or damaged connections
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Corroded parts such as the heat exchanger or pipes
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Faulty pressure valve
Solution:
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Turn off the boiler: Immediately switch off the boiler and isolate the water supply to prevent further leakage.
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Check for visible leaks: Inspect the area around the boiler for any visible damage or loose parts.
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Call a Gas Safe engineer: A water leak in the boiler can cause extensive damage to your system and home, so it’s crucial to seek professional help as soon as possible.
4. Boiler Keeps Switching Off
Problem: If your boiler frequently switches off, it could be due to overheating, low water pressure, or a fault in the system. Potential Causes:
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Overheating caused by blockages or a malfunctioning pump
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Faulty thermostat
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Low water pressure
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Clogged filters or pipes
Solution:
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Reset the boiler: If your boiler has a reset function, give it a try. This can sometimes resolve minor errors.
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Check the pressure: Low pressure can lead to the boiler shutting down. Ensure the pressure is within the correct range.
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Clean the filters: Blocked filters can restrict water flow and cause overheating. Cleaning or replacing them can solve the problem.
When to Call a Professional: If the issue persists after resetting the boiler, it’s time to call a Gas Safe engineer for a professional diagnosis.
5. Error Codes on the Display
Problem: Modern boilers often display error codes when there’s a malfunction. These codes can help identify the exact issue, whether it's an electrical fault, a blocked flue, or a faulty component. Potential Causes:
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Electrical issues
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Blocked flue
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Faulty sensors
Solution:
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Consult the manual: Look up the error code in your boiler’s user manual to determine the problem.
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Reset the system: Some issues can be resolved with a simple reset.
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Seek professional help: For more complex problems, such as a blocked flue or faulty sensors, a professional will need to inspect and fix the issue.
Get in Touch with Go2 Plumbing and Heating Ltd
Experiencing any of these boiler issues? Don’t wait until they worsen! Go2 Plumbing and Heating Ltd offers expert boiler repair services in Liverpool, Manchester, Preston, Wigan, and the North West. Our Gas Safe registered engineers are here to help get your boiler back to full working order quickly and efficiently.
At Go2 Plumbing and Heating Ltd, we proudly serve customers across the North West, including the following areas:
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Liverpool
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Manchester
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Preston
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Wigan
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Blackpool
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Southport
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Blackburn
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Chorley
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Bolton
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Ormskirk
If your area isn’t listed above, don’t worry — get in touch with us to see if we can assist you. We’re committed to delivering top-quality plumbing and heating services throughout the region.
Call Us Today to Book Service, Install, or Repair
Is your boiler in need of a repair or replacement? Go2 Plumbing and Heating Ltd is here to help with fast, reliable, and affordable services across the North West, including Liverpool, Manchester, Preston, Blackpool, and more. Our Gas Safe registered engineers are experts in boiler repairs, installations, and routine servicing, ensuring your home stays warm and safe year-round. Whether you need a quick repair, a new installation, or an annual service, we make booking easy. Simply call us or fill out our online contact form. We offer same-day service for urgent issues and can help you find the best solution for your needs and budget. Why Choose Us?
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Expert Gas Safe engineers
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Local service across the North West
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Quick response times and competitive pricing
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Top-quality installations and repairs
Book your service, installation or repair today and experience the best in plumbing and heating solutions. We’re just a call away!