Boiler break downs are an expensive, inconvenient problem. Unfortunately we cannot always tell when these issues are going to occur. Having said that there are certain precautions we can all take to ensure our boiler requires as little attention as possible. Follow the small steps in this useful guide to prevent boiler problems and for advice on how to save yourself a few pounds.
Ensure you get an annual boiler service.
Just because you haven’t witnessed any problems with your boiler, your hot water and central heating are working fine, it doesn’t mean there aren’t any issues. Carbon monoxide for one is a senseless gas that can cause severe consequences. An annual service can identify issues early so that they don’t become problems. Boiler servicing is recommended to ensure everything is working as it should. We’ve all heard the cliché ‘prevention is cheaper than the cure’ and when applied to this circumstance, it has never been truer.
Operate your heating throughout the year.
As soon as winter is over and we start to see a bit of sun, we turn our heating off and keep as far away from it as possible. We all do it, it’s our time to save a bit of money on the energy bills. However neglecting our heating actually leaves us more prone to breakdowns. Instead you should operate your heating throughout the year, turning it on for 10-15 minutes every now and again. These small intervals will barely affect your heating costs but ensure your heating system is running as it should.
Take out boiler cover.
Boiler insurance involves a small monthly payment that protects you should anything go wrong. Typically your insurance covers the cost of your annual service, an engineer’s call out charge and the price of the parts for your boiler repairs. It’s worth it when you consider some engineer’s emergency call out charges should an unexpected breakage occur with your boiler. It’s also peace of mind that you have access to an engineer should you require.
Don’t try it at home.
When something goes wrong with your central heating, don’t second guess the cause and start playing around. Instead call an engineer immediately. Something simple could be made a whole lot worse and expensive by trying to fix it yourself.
Check outside pipes to ensure they have not frozen.
Frozen pipes cause blockages and prevent your water access. Don’t let it get this far. As the weather worsens pour a jug of lukewarm water over pipes regularly to prevent this issue.
Buy a carbon monoxide alarm.
Carbon monoxide is a huge issue because it is an odourless, tasteless and invisible gas. Unfortunately it can be caused by boiler issues. Buy a carbon monoxide alarm to draw your attention to any potential problems.
