If you’re experiencing your boiler cutting out, you’re not alone. This is a common issue that can be caused by a variety of factors. It can be frustrating, especially during cold weather when you need your heating system to work properly. But don’t worry, there are steps you can take to diagnose and fix the problem.
One possible reason your boiler keeps cutting out is due to a faulty thermostat. If your thermostat isn’t working properly, it won’t be able to accurately detect the water temperature, which can cause the boiler to shut off to prevent overheating. Another potential cause is low water pressure, which can prevent your boiler from functioning properly. It’s important to identify the root cause of the issue to prevent further damage to your heating system.
Common Causes
If your boiler keeps cutting out, there are several common causes that you should be aware of. Here are some of the most common reasons why your boiler keeps turning off:
Low Water Pressure
Low water pressure can cause your boiler to cut out. If the pressure is too low, your boiler may not be able to function properly. Check the pressure gauge on your boiler to see if the pressure is too low. If it is, you may need to top up the water pressure. Consult your boiler manual for instructions on how to do this.
Thermostat Issues
If your thermostat is faulty or not calibrated correctly, it can cause your boiler to turn off. Make sure that your thermostat is set to the correct temperature and that it is working properly. If you suspect that your thermostat is faulty, you may need to replace it. Contact a qualified heating engineer for advice.
Airlocks
Airlocks can prevent water from flowing through your boiler, causing it to cut out. If you suspect that you have an airlock, you may need to bleed your radiators to release the trapped air. Consult your boiler manual for instructions on how to do this.
Faulty Pump
If your pump is faulty, it can cause your boiler to turn off. Check the pump to see if it is working properly. If it is not, you may need to replace it. Contact a qualified heating engineer for advice.
Remember, if you are not confident in your ability to diagnose and fix the problem yourself, contact a qualified heating engineer for assistance.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance is essential to keep your boiler functioning properly and to prevent it from cutting out. Here are some maintenance tasks that you can perform to keep your boiler in good working order.
Bleeding Radiators
If your radiators are not heating up properly, they may need to be bled. Bleeding your radiators involves releasing trapped air from the system, which can cause cold spots on your radiators. Here’s how to do it:
- Turn off your central heating system and allow the radiators to cool down.
- Place a cloth under the radiator bleed valve to catch any water that may escape.
- Use a radiator key to open the bleed valve. You should hear a hissing sound as air comes out of the radiator.
- When the hissing stops and water starts flowing out of the radiator, close the valve and mop up any leaked water.
- Turn your central heating system back on and check that your radiators are heating up evenly.
Power Flushing
Over time, sludge and debris can build up in your boiler and heating system, which can cause blockages and reduce efficiency. Power flushing is a process that involves flushing out the system with water at high pressure to remove any build-up. Here’s how to do it:
- Turn off your central heating system and allow the radiators to cool down.
- Connect a power flushing machine to your heating system.
- Open the drain valve and let the water drain out of your system.
- Fill the system with clean water and turn on the power flushing machine.
- Allow the machine to run until the water coming out of the drain valve is clear.
- Drain the system again and refill it with clean water.
- Add a corrosion inhibitor to the system to prevent future build-up.
Checking Water Pressure
Low water pressure can cause your boiler to cut out. You should check your boiler’s water pressure regularly to ensure that it is within the recommended range. Here’s how to do it:
- Locate your boiler’s pressure gauge. It is usually located on the front of the boiler.
- Check the current pressure reading on the gauge. The recommended pressure range is usually between 1 and 1.5 bar.
- If the pressure is too low, use the filling loop to add water to the system until the pressure is within the recommended range.
- If the pressure is too high, use the bleed valve to release some water from the system until the pressure is within the recommended range.
Performing these maintenance tasks regularly can help to keep your boiler in good working order and prevent it from cutting out.
Professional Help
If you have tried the DIY fixes and your boiler keeps cutting out, it may be time to seek professional help. There are two main options: boiler repair services or boiler replacement.
Boiler Repair Services
A professional heating engineer can diagnose the problem with your boiler and repair it. They will have the necessary tools and expertise to fix the issue safely and efficiently. Common repairs include fixing faulty thermostats, replacing broken parts, and repairing leaks.
When choosing a boiler repair service, it is important to choose a reputable company with qualified engineers, like Hometree. Look for companies that are Gas Safe registered, which means they are legally allowed to work on gas appliances. You can check a company’s Gas Safe registration on the Gas Safe Register website.
Boiler Replacement
If your boiler is old or the repair costs are high, it may be more cost-effective to replace the boiler. A new boiler will be more energy-efficient, which can save you money on your energy bills in the long run. A professional heating company, like WarmZilla can show you the best boiler available for your home and install it safely.
When choosing a new boiler, consider the following factors:
- Boiler type: Combi, system, or regular
- Size: The size of your home and hot water demand
- Efficiency rating: A-rated boilers are the most energy-efficient
- Cost: Compare prices from different companies and consider the long-term savings on energy bills
In conclusion, if your boiler keeps cutting out, it is important to seek professional help. A qualified heating engineer can diagnose and repair the problem, or advise you on the best type of boiler replacement. Choose a reputable company with Gas Safe registered engineers and consider the factors when choosing a new boiler.