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Boilers

The Homeowner’s Guide to Boiler Installations

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Leaking Boiler

A boiler is one of the main fixtures of a house. Boilers are considered as the real heart of your home. Without a functioning boiler, you would have no hot water. That means cold morning showers and a greasy kitchen to boot. Moreover, you would not be able to come home to a toasty room because there’s no boiler to keep your house warm.

Living in a house with a broken boiler can be quite challenging. Have no hot water? Here’s a guide on what to do. Your gas boiler powers your central heating system. Without it, you wouldn’t have a warm house to come home to.

Here is Plumbingforce’s very own Homeowner’s Guide to Boiler Installations

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When Should I Replace My Boiler?

It’s essential to know when you should call a professional plumber for boiler maintenance and replacement. In the UK, over 18% of households experienced boiler breakdowns during the winter — definitely not the best time to have a broken boiler. 

According to boiler manufacturers, the average boiler lasts about 10years. This number depends heavily on the use and maintenance of the system. One common rookie mistake of first-time homeowners is not taking care of their boiler correctly. This decreases its lifespan and leads to huge costs. A properly maintained boiler can even last for over 20 years. Do the smart thing and invest in boiler maintenance. It’s better than having to pay thousands of pounds on a new boiler installation.

Read more details on when and where you should get your boilers serviced here.

How Long Does A Boiler Installation Take?

Are you installing a new boiler? It’s essential that you know just how long it takes to have a boiler installed. You want to schedule your week around it. When you have contractors inside your house coming in and out, it’s best to be at the premises to oversee the entire project. 

Boiler installations are quite complex, especially if your new boiler doesn’t fit into the old system. It can take from one to four days, depending on the complexity of the job and the experience of your chosen plumber.

A broken boiler in your home can be quite a hassle. If you want an extra fast, hassle-free boiler installation, call Plumbingforce now! We provide same-day boiler service so you can have a working boiler as soon as possible.

How Much Do I Have To Pay for Boiler Installation?

Boiler installations are costly. That is why experts recommend investing in boiler maintenance and repairs instead of having to buy a new boiler prematurely. It can cost thousands of pounds, excluding the installation fees. There are several factors that you have to consider, such as what type of boiler you should get: Condensing boilers, Combi boilers or System boilers all have their pros and cons. Read up on the three common types of boilers and their uses here. 

If you’re lost on what type would be the best boiler for your central heating system, talk to a Gas Safe registered engineer for their professional opinion.

The price of a new boiler depends on the type, model and manufacturer. You can get a boiler for as little as £400 or as expensive as £3500. Boiler installations can cost from £500 – £1200 depending on the type of boiler and the complexity of the job including distance, available space to work with, and the supplies they need to complete your boiler installation—more details on the cost of boiler replacements here.

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Who Can Install My Boiler?

As per country regulations, all gas-related work and renovations can only be done by Gas Safe registered engineers. The Gas Safe Register is the official authorised and regulated list of gas engineers in the country. If you want to have any part of your central heating system fixed, replaced, or installed, you have to find a gas registered engineer to ensure your safety.

When your gas engineer comes to your doorstep, ask for a Gas Safe Register ID. This will contain important information such as their full name, license number, the business they work for, and which gas-related services they are qualified to carry out. 

Why You Shouldn’t DIY Your Boiler Installation

Often, homeowners ask, “Why should I call a professional engineer for my boiler installation?” The thought process usually goes like this: I already paid too much for the new boiler. I want to save money by pulling a DIY boiler installation instead of losing another couple hundred pounds on a gas engineer.

If you’re already thinking along this line, STOP. According to UK laws and regulations, only gas safe registered engineers can carry out any gas work services. By DIY-ing your boiler installation, you are putting yourself, your family, your home, and your neighbourhood at risk. The price for a professional installation service is low compared to the damages you may unintentionally cause. 

As boilers are connected straight to your gas line, the risks are way too high. Make sure that you call a professional gas engineer to do your boiler installation. Your gas engineer will have firsthand knowledge of how to complete your installation. Whether you’re replacing an old boiler or fitting in a combi boiler, they already know what to do and how to manoeuvre around certain blockades. Their experience will help them finish the installation faster. This way, you get heating more quickly. You don’t want your boiler installation to go the same route as your other DIY projects, half-finished and forgotten in the basement.

 They will also have the right tools and supplies needed to complete an installation. Going to the shop and buying screwdrivers, wrenches, and other tools may cost you as much as your gas engineer. 

Lastly, your gas engineer has better odds of finishing your boiler installation without a hiccup. When you DIY, you run the risk of damaging your new boiler to the point of no return. Instead of saving £ 500 on a gas engineer, you have to spend another £ 1500 on a new boiler.

How To Find a Gas Safe Registered Engineer For Boiler Installation?

Look no further! Plumbingforce has local gas engineers registered in England that can install a new boiler on the same day as your call. Moreover, Plumbingforce will give a fixed price quote. You won’t have to worry about hidden charges to fix your heating.

Give us a call at 0330 173 2923 for more details on our boiler installations or book online now!

One-Off Boiler Services: A guide

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boiler breakdowns

Many people in London avail the services of licensed boiler engineers at least once a year. A lot of boiler manufacturers offer annual boiler service to their customers. These boiler engineers check the condition of the customers’ boiler at least once a year. If they don’t offer annual boiler services, you will need to independently hire yourself a boiler engineer. Similarly, if you need help for a boiler repair and boiler emergency, you are going to need to avail a one-off boiler service. In this case, you should first know the things to note in availing a one-off boiler service. Keep reading to get the information you need in getting a one-off boiler service and other boiler services!

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Why is One-off Boiler Service Important?

Keeping your central heating system and gas boiler working correctly is essential not for your convenience but also to ensure your safety. Many people avail annual boiler service to regularly check if their boiler is working properly. However, there will be times where you have to call a boiler engineer ASAP when you think something is off with your boiler. Definitely, you can’t wait for your annual boiler service schedule just to fix your boiler and central heating. Availing a one-off boiler service is just as important especially in times of emergency.

One-off boiler service cost is also important if you want to fix or if you want to replace an old boiler with a new boiler. If you spot corrosion or leaks, these should be fixed ASAP to prevent any fire or carbon monoxide accidents. If you simply need peace of mind for your home, then you can have your boiler serviced. You can also include any other related services such as repairs for your gas appliances to get a better quote and price.

Can I Service My Boiler on My Own?

Some people are tempted to service or repair their boiler on their own so they can save money. Doing so may actually lead you to pay a higher cost of boiler services. Boiler service and any other gas-related work are complicated. It requires years of expertise and training to do correctly. Even if you miraculously fix your boiler on your own, there’s no telling if you did some damages that would show up later on.

These kinds of work need to be done precisely. Any careless mistake could compromise the safety of your home. Thus, all gas-related work is best done by a Gas Safe Registered engineer. After all, messing around with your boiler cover and other appliances may cause you to damage them further. 

What Are Gas Safe Registered Engineers?

Letting the professionals do the boiler service and repairs is not just a mere piece of advice. It is actually a law in the UK that only gas safe registered engineers can do gas work to ensure gas safety and monitor gas pressure. 

When you’re availing any kind of boiler service, make sure to check first if the engineer is gas safe registered in England. You can go to the Gas Safe Register website to check. Their Gas Safe Register ID should also indicate the kind of gas work and appliance they are licensed to work on.

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What is the Average Cost of a One-Off Boiler Service?

There is really no fixed price for a one-off boiler service as it depends on many factors. The average cost for a simple one-off boiler service is around £70. The range can go as low as £50 and as high as £100 or more, depending on the condition of your boiler and the complexity of the job.  If your boiler needs a thorough boiler service, you will definitely need to pay a higher price. The costs of the boiler service will also be affected by the materials and parts needed to repair your boiler. The fee for the boiler service may also depend on your location in the country. Take note also of the costs of the parts and labour to have a good estimate of the price.

When to Get a One-Off Boiler Service and When to Get a Boiler Cover Plan?

If you have a new boiler, paying for a one-off boiler service makes better financial sense. A new boiler most likely means that it will be working properly for a long time and rarely will it need to be fixed. However, if your boiler is old, it may need regular checking and repairs to keep it working and make your boiler last longer. If you need monthly or annual service, then it is best to avail a boiler cover plan. On average, the monthly fee for a boiler cover plan is £9 to £13. These prices may vary on the company you will book and on the possible quotes you may get.

When to Get Your Boiler Serviced?

Avoid having your boiler serviced around wintertime. This is usually the time when most boilers are breaking down. With demand high, you may have to pay a premium price for a one-off boiler service. The best time to give your boiler a thorough maintenance check is before winter. Make sure that you spring for boiler service before the cold sets in. This way, you can avoid having teeth-chattering nights because your boiler stopped working in the middle of winter and there are no available plumbers around.

Find and Book a Boiler Service Today

Your boiler is the heart of your home. Without it, things can easily go sideways. With Aerialforce, you can be sure that we’ll provide the best service in the market for the best price possible. Contact us now at 0330 173 2901 or book online now!

Your Handy Guide To Boiler Filling Loops

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central heating

Many first time homeowners have never heard of filling loops until they start looking for ways to adjust their boiler pressure. And that is a part of the process, as you learn more about maintaining your central heating – you get to know every obscure part and their role in the system. 

Plumbingforce prepared this handy guide to help you get to know your boiler filling loops. Here we cover the following points:

  1. What Is A Boiler Filling Loop?
  2. Different Types of Boiler Filling Loops
    • External
    • Internal
  3. Where Can You Buy A Filling Loop?
  4. Where Is Your Filling Loop Located?
  5. How Do You Install A Filling Loop?
    • Inspect Your Filling Loop
    • What Goes Where
    • Secure Your Connection
    • You Are Ready To Go!
  6. How Do You Use A Filling Loop?
    • Using An Internal Filling Loop
    • Using An External Filling Loop

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What Is A Boiler Filling Loop?

A boiler filling loop is a hose that can temporarily connect your boiler to your main water supply. It is used to  repressurise your boiler and top up the water when you drain or bleed your system. They usually come as an additional attachment with the boiler. When they aren’t, you can easily buy it separately.  

Different Types of Boiler Filling Loops

There are 2 types available: 

External Filling Loop

An external filling loop hose is braided with compression fittings on each end. There are also two valves: one to control the water flow (stop valve) and the other to ensure the boiler water doesn’t go back to the mains (double check valve). A part of the external fitting loop connects to your main water line, and the other connects to your boiler. You need to make sure you have the right end on its designated terminal. 

You can easily find an external filling loop in local hardware stores and online retailers. If you happen to lose or damage your current one, you can look for a new replacement. It shouldn’t be too hard to find.

Internal Filling Loop

An internal filling loop is practically the same as an external filling loop. You can typically find internal filling loops in combi boilers. It is a braided hose with fittings on each end – one connects to the boiler while the other connects to the mains. However, there are several standout differences.

Since it is internal, it is fully integrated into the boiler system. The connections are close to one another, so most internal filling loops are shorter than external ones. The hose can be braided, but some models forgo this and simply have a pipe connecting the boiler and water mains with the proper fittings and valves. 

Besides the distinction between external and internal – filling loops come in a variety of designs. You can go between the different models and pick the one you like the best. At the heart of it all, it does the same job. As long as it is high quality, you shouldn’t have a problem with it. 

Where Can You Buy A Boiler Filling Loop?

You can easily find a filling loop in your local hardware stores. If you are having a tough time finding a filling loop, you can try to target plumbing and heating speciality stores. Ones that cater to professional plumbers and heating engineers are bound to have stock ready. 

If you are looking to buy online, you can find excellent options at these retail websites: 

  1. Amazon.co.uk
  2. Ebay.co.uk
  3. Screwfix.com
  4. Wickes.co.uk
  5. Directheatingsupplies.co.uk
  6. Thehardwarestores.co.uk

With these websites, you are sure to find a filling loop for your boiler. 

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Where Is My Filling Loop Located?

Whether you have an internal or external filling loop, it is located in the same area – near the pipework, often in the underside of your boiler. Some brands and models might have a different placement. Suppose you want to have a better idea of where your filling loop is located. In that case, you can try to check out the central heating filling loop diagram or combi boiler filling loop diagram online. With a proper illustration, you don’t have to fumble your way to the isolation valve. 

How Do You Install A Filling Loop?

When it comes to the installation of your filling loop, it depends on what kind you have. An internal one is very different from an external one. However, it shouldn’t be too difficult to identify. For the most part, you can tell by what type of boiler you have. For example, combi boilers usually have internal filling loops, so there is no installation necessary. Your plumber or heating engineer should have that taken care of for you.  On the other hand, if you have a fuel burning boiler or a systems boiler you have to install your external filling loop manually. Unlike the internal one that usually stays inside the boiler indefinitely, an external one should only be connected when used. When it isn’t –  it should be turned off and disconnected until the next time you repressurise your boiler.  Why? Because of the boiler filling loop regulations. When your filling loop connects your boiler and mains there is always a chance for a backflow – it doesn’t matter whether your boiler filling loop is in on or off position. It doesn’t minimise the risk.  Plumbers, heating engineers, and maintenance codes tend to be very cautious when it comes to backflow because it can lead to water contamination in the main lines. And since the whole neighbourhood draws their water from the same source, this can lead to very serious and very expensive problems. Avoid the fines and only bring out your filling loop when necessary.  With the warning out of the way, here are step-by-step instructions for installing your filling loop: 

Inspect your filling loop.

See what kind you have on hand. While most models have 2 valves, some only come with one. Even the types of valves may vary. Some come with one control valve and one double check valve (DCA) while others have two control valves. Your manual can be a reference.

What goes where. 

Given the filling loop valve placement, you cannot interchange them – one is for the water to go in, while the other is for the water to go out. Fit the end with the stop valve near the main lines. 

Secure your connection.

Use an adjustable spanner to secure the connection between the filling loop, the boiler and the mains.

You are ready to go!

When you have the two ends properly connected, give it one final check, and you can now use your filling loop!

How Do You Use A Filling Loop?

Installing and using a filling loop is very DIY-friendly. In fact, it is one of the few things you can handle every couple of months. Instead of waiting for your local heating engineer to pop by, you can add this to your list along with other maintenance tasks. If the pressure is too low or keeps dropping, repressurising your boiler and central heating system is very easy. Here are helpful steps you can take:

Using An Internal Filling Loop

  1. Turn off your boiler or shut down the electricity.
  2. Bring out the key for your internal filling loop.
  3. Open the hatch/ flap and insert the key in its proper slot.
  4. Activate your system. This step may vary according to your boiler. For example, Worcester Bosch, you turn the key from the open to the closed padlock symbol, then turn the knob beside it counterclockwise to top up the water.
  5. Check the pressure gauge until it reaches the right range, usually 1-1.5 bar (keep it green). 
  6. Tighten the knob (clockwise) and turn the key to the open padlock position. 
  7. Remove the key. 

Using An External Filling Loop

  1. Turn off your boiler.
  2. Remove the cap of your isolation valve.
  3. Fit your external filling loop. This part may depend on your set up. Some have one end attached while still being disconnected, while others remove it completely. Use an adjustable spanner to tighten both ends. 
  4. Double-check the position of your valves so that there are no issues. You can consult the manual for this part.
  5. Turn the knob/lever of the filling loop slowly to let the water in the boiler. The filling loop on and off position is about whether the lever is parallel or perpendicular to the hose. If it lines up, then that is the filling loop on-position. If it creates a cross or “t” shape, it is the filling loop off-position. 
  6. Check the pressure gauge. Make sure it is in the 1-1.5 bar range (green) before turning the lever to close. If it goes past the ideal range, just bleed your radiator and go back to step no. 1. 
  7. Disconnect your external filling loop and clean up. 
No matter what type of boiler you have in your home, a filling loop is an easy way to fix your boiler’s pressure. By keeping the pressure at the proper range, you not only get an efficient boiler, but you also minimise the damage on your pipes. In fact, this is one of the main tasks of your boiler service! Repressurise your boiler! If you need a new boiler installation or additional help with your combi boiler’s filling loop you can contact Plumbingforce at 0330 173 9039!  Alternatively, you can also book our services online! We have an excellent team of heating engineers and plumbers who are ready to help you get your central heating in tip-top shape. From brand new installation, regular maintenance and boiler repairs, to emergency call-outs – Plumbingforce can be your one-stop-shop!

What Size Boiler Do I Need? How To Choose The Best Boiler For Your Needs

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boiler

Boilers are arguably one of the most essential appliances that can be found in every household. After all, they provide us with hot water and hot air to stay warm and clean. However, when you need to replace an old boiler or purchase a new one, not many realise how important it is to find the perfect boiler in terms of size.

Any miscalculation on the size may lead to stress and more unnecessary expenses in the future. And this guide can help you prevent this from happening. Moreover, if you’re asking, “what size boiler do I need?” we can help you out! Below, we have a list of items you should consider while determining what size boiler you need exactly. We will be including a sample boiler size guide, as well as links to some boiler manufacturers’ boiler sizing calculator.

Why Do I Need To Find The Right Size?

A miscalculation on what boiler size you need can be costly. A boiler that is too small, for example, will have trouble providing enough heat for your central heating system, nor will it have enough hot water for your shower.

Alternatively, a boiler too large in size will result in a lot of wasted energy. Your boiler will be producing a lot more heat than what is needed, thus using more electricity or burning more gas. And as you already know,  

More electricity or gas used = More expensive electricity/gas bills.

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What Size Boiler Do I Need: How Boiler Size Is Measured

Before we go on, it is important for us to be on the same page. When we say “boiler size,” we are not talking about the physical size of the boiler, but rather the boiler’s output in kilowatts (kW) or the amount of energy the boiler puts out in the form of heat. Typically, the more heat and hot water you need, the higher the energy output you will require. However, many other things play a part in determining what size boiler is best for your home.

Factors To Consider When Deciding What Size Boiler You Need For Your Home

Here are some of the things that you should take into consideration while choosing an appropriately sized boiler for your home:

How Big Is Your Property?

The size of your property is one of the most important things to consider when you’re trying to determine what boiler size you need. To put it simply, the larger your property is, the more space you will have to fill with heat and more bathrooms and sinks you will have to fill with hot water. Hence, under “how big is your property?” you will also have to ask:

How Many Radiators Do You Have?

An average apartment or a small house will have roughly around ten radiators. That means you will have to get a boiler that can power up to ten radiators all at the same time.

Do You Have Multiple Bathrooms?

Moreover, you will also want to find out how many bathrooms your new boiler will have to supply hot water. Some boilers are not able to accommodate supplying hot water to more than one location at a time, so that is also something you will have to take note of. It would also be smart to determine if you will want hot water to be supplied to other areas in your home, like the kitchen, guest comfort room, and laundry area.

How Many People Live In Your Home?

Aside from how many rooms and radiators you will be supplying heating and hot water to, you also have to determine the demand for heating and hot water in your home.

For example, if there are only two bathrooms in your house, but four people are using each, you will have to take the fact that there are eight people in need of hot water, rather than focusing on the fact that there are only two bathrooms in your home.

What Type Of Boiler Do You Plan On Purchasing?

Before you ask yourself, “what size boiler do I need?” you should also determine what kind of boiler you plan on purchasing. Do you want a combi boiler, a standard boiler, or a system boiler? While it doesn’t seem like it, the type of boiler you purchase does play a part in determining what size boiler you need.

That is because combi boilers usually heat up water instantaneously, requiring more energy than other types of boilers. Standard boilers and system boilers, on the other hand, make use of a hot water cylinder or tank, thus storing hot water for longer periods of time. Moreover, the only difference between the two is that a standard boiler gets water from a cold water tank, while a system boiler gets water directly from the pains.

These, in turn, will affect the amount of energy (kW) consumed by each type of boiler.

To read more about the different types of boilers, click here.

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Other Factors To Keep In Mind

Aside from the factors mentioned above, here are a few things you will want to remember while determining the right size of boiler for your home.
  • Account for heat loss in your home. Aside from the demand for heating and hot water and the size of the property, the insulation and size and number of windows you have will also come into play.
  • Every type of fuel has a different rate of efficiency. That means if you are using a type of fuel that is less efficient than others, you may need to use a larger boiler size.
  • The water pressure in your home will definitely determine what size of boiler you need. This is especially important if you are using a combi boiler, as combi boilers should be big enough to accommodate the amount of water passing through it. That means the higher the flow rate, the bigger boiler you will need.

Most Common Size of Boilers

Here are the most common types of boilers out in the market:

Standard Boilers

  • 9-18 kW (below ten radiators)
  • 18-26 kW (10-15 radiators)
  • 27-40 kW (15-20 radiators)

Combi Boilers

  • 24-27 kW (below ten radiators)
  • 28-34 kW (10-15 radiators)
  • 35-42 kW (15-20 radiators)

System Boilers

  • 9-18 kW (below ten radiators)
  • 18-26 kW (10-15 radiators)
  • 27-40 kW (15-20 radiators)

Boiler Size Calculator Links

To calculate boiler size more accurately, you may use the boiler size calculator specially made by these boiler manufacturers: If you’d rather have a professional do a survey of what boiler size you need for your home, you may always contact a local gas safe engineer in your area. Better yet, book an appointment with Plumbingforce today! We can come to your property in no time!

How Do I Fix A Cold Radiator?

by
home water radiators

Even if you have a brand new boiler that works hard to provide heating and hot water to your home, its effectiveness is dependent on the other elements of the system. What good is hot water if your taps are broken? How can you heat your home safely if you have dirty flues? Your central heating system is only as good as its weakest link. As homeowners, you need to learn how to identify these links and address them before they make too much of an impact on your everyday life.

One of the issues you are bound to encounter is cold radiators. Picture this: you come home from a long day at work and turn your heating on. You wait for the room to warm up but get nothing. When your radiator is not working it can negatively affect your health and mood. It might be bearable during the fall, but it can become a major problem when you lose heating in the middle of winter. 

Common Reasons For Having A Cold Radiator

It can come in many forms, like having a partially hot and partially cold unit, a cold unit, or a completely cold system. Each one is slightly different, but assuming that your boiler has fuel, the usual suspects for a cold radiator can be anything from low water pressure, trapped air, debris, or hardware problems like pump failure and stuck valves. You can prevent these issues when your central heating system gets its annual maintenance work. 

However, if you’ve been neglecting your system, it is time to get to work.

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How To Fix Your Cold Radiator

You can try several methods to fix your radiator if it is cold before you call your local heating engineer:

Clean Your Radiator

The first thing you need to do is deal with your debris-filled central heating system. In most cases, poor water pressure and blockages all stem from this. Whether one radiator is cold or your whole system is – cleaning is the best way to take care of multiple problems at once.

You can try to drain your central heating system and replace the water for a fresh start. When your heating system is clean, have preventive measures in place like a magnaclean filter along with a self-administering limescale solution to keep the water free of sediment and rust. 

However, this method can only go so far. You may need to call your plumber for a power flush and get all the sludge and grime out of your system. By doing this, you remove the excess air and clear any possible blockages in one go. Even if it does not fix your cold radiators, it is generally good for your overall central heating system, so nothing is wasted if it doesn’t work.

Check Your Valves

The second step is inspecting the radiator valves and having them replaced when necessary. The thermostatic radiator valve (TRV) on your radiator is in charge of letting hot water pass in your radiator. When it is stuck, it prevents the heat from circulating and creates a cold boiler. You can check your thermostatic valve by removing the head and checking the pin. If the pin is pressed down, then you have a stuck valve. You’ll need a pair of long-nose pliers and wiggle it a bit until the pin pops up. 

If you noticed that your valves are rusty during your inspection, it is best to call a plumber and have a replacement installed. Rusty valves are a by-product of trapped air that was left inside for too long. Even if you bleed your radiator and have it cleaned, the dirty valve can still create grime and rust. Removing and replacing them is the best way to keep your system clean. 

Balance Your Radiator

The third option is to acknowledge that not all radiators are heating at the same time. If you live in a house with multiple rooms, your central heating might be taking a while to get to that one radiator. When this happens, it puts a strain on your pipes, so it is best to fix it as soon as possible. 

If this is the case, you may need to balance your central heating. Which essentially cycling new water and adjusting the lockshield valve on all the radiators and making sure they heat at the same time. You’ll need a pen, paper, a pair of pliers, and a whole lot of patience. For more detailed instructions, you can read more about it here: Heating Conundrums: How to Balance Radiators.

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Check Your Boiler

The third option is to check your boiler. If bleeding and balancing your radiators don’t work, and replacing the valve had no luck either, it probably isn’t your radiator. The problem can be between your boiler and your thermostat, or your boiler itself. Here, you take a step back and let professional heating engineers from Plumbingforce take care of your cold radiator. 

Even if you find out what is wrong, there is little you can do to fix it on your own. Might as well call a professional instead, and save time instead of DIY-ing and making the problem worse. 

What If Only Parts Of My Radiator Are Cold?

If your radiator is cold in some parts, either hot on top and cold at the bottom, or cold at the top and hot at the bottom, you can chalk it up to excess air or a dirty radiator. You can try to address this by bleeding your unit or having it cleaned. You can visit our blog, “Why Is My Radiator Hot at the Top and Cold at the Bottom” for more detailed instructions. 

Taking care of your central system takes the joint effort of you and your heating engineer. Plumbingforce can be your long term partner! Our technicians can handle just about anything you throw at them from boiler installations to maintenance and repairs. If you need to fix or replace your radiators, you can book our engineers online or call us at 0330 162 3460!

How Long Do Boilers Last?

by
Boiler thermostat

Your boiler is a heavy-duty machine that works around the clock to provide hot water and heating to your home. In a country as cold and damp as the UK, it plays a vital role in your central heating system. Even summer nights can run a bit chilly. Given its importance and frequent use, boilers are built to last and are considered a long-term investment for every home and business.

Whether you are buying a new boiler or just curious when your boiler replacement is due, you are bound to ask yourself, “how long do boilers last?” There is no strict answer to it. Their lifespan purely depends on how much you use your boiler, whether you take care of them or not, and sometimes, just pure luck. If you want to make the most out of your current boiler, it is important to learn how long they last and what factors affect that.

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How Long Should A Regular Boiler Last?

No matter what type of boiler you have, the average lifespan would be around 10-15 years. With the proper care and maintenance from a boiler engineer, they can last well up to 20-25 years, though there may be dips in performance. For most boilers, this dip happens in the 10th year. Their efficiency goes down about 30% by then. 

The efficiency of your boiler depends on what type you have. Combination (combi) boilers and condensing boilers are some of the more modern options. A combi boiler can have a thermal efficiency of 98% when they are new, and a condensing boiler can have 92-95% depending on the model and brand. However, if you have a traditional boiler on hand, like oil boilers or gas boilers, they usually have a thermal efficiency of 85%. 

There have been so many great strides in improving heating systems’ efficiency that it was only 30 years ago when these oil heating furnaces could only reach a maximum of 70% when bought new. 

Can you imagine the 30% dip in the 10th year with such an inefficient model? It is understandable to see why most would replace it in 10 to 15 years. However, given the push for more sustainable options, you might see a generation of boilers that can last well beyond that, given proper maintenance. 

How Do You Extend The Life Of Your Old Boiler?

Like any other appliance in your home, the only way you can extend its lifespan is through responsible use and proper maintenance. When you manage to do both consistently, there should be no reason for such heavy-duty machines to break down before their time. 

What Commonly Affects Its Lifespan

Several things can negatively affect your boiler’s lifespan–it is a mixture of environmental factors and user habits. It is up to the homeowner, or the landlord and tenant’s joint effort, to make sure that these variables are under control. 

 Improper Boiler Storage

When you first get your unit, the boiler manufacturer’s manual outlines your boiler’s ideal location and storage. It is generally advised that you keep it in a cool, dry place away from other items for proper ventilation.

If your boiler is in the attic, basement, or closet, make sure your boxes and clothes are not directly beside your unit. Leave at least 1 m or 3 feet-gap between your boiler and other items. However, it is preferable to keep the whole area clear. 

*You may also want to apply the same idea for your boiler flues and vents. It is always best to keep them clean so that they can do their job properly. 

Impact Damage 

Even though your boiler is built to last, they aren’t made for impact damage. The impact can come from a variety of sources like items falling on your unit or receiving hits when you roughhouse near the boiler. While your cast iron boiler might look like it can take a beating, that isn’t true. You may need to replace the section or the entire boiler because of the dents in extreme cases.

Poor Water Treatment

Poor water treatment leaves impurities and debris in the system. These tend to build-up and create blockages in your storage tank and pipework that affect your existing boiler’s performance. When the grime stays inside too long, it can lead to a boiler breakdown. The UK generally has hard water, which means it is rich in minerals and similar sediments. You need to treat your water for this before it enters your home to prevent this. 

Debris Build-Up

As mentioned earlier, debris can affect your boiler and lead to its early retirement. And poor water treatment isn’t the only way to trigger this. When there is trapped air in your system, it can mix with the water and create rust. Rust, along with the limescale from your hard water, can turn into a thick sludge that prevents your home from heating evenly. It becomes something that not only damages your boiler but your pipework and radiators as well. 

You may want to invest in a magnaclean filter, and you can read more about it here. 

Overfiring

Every boiler has set limits. While you can go for the maximum amount, you cannot keep it there indefinitely. You are at risk of overfiring your boiler the same way you would overfire your woodstove. Cast iron boilers are more prone to this. 

Remember, your unit is only built to withstand a certain amount when you keep overfiring your boiler, you damage the internal tubing and heat exchanger. The reality is that overfiring doesn’t actually speed-up your heating. So, you end up increasing the wear on your unit without any reward. 

Thermostat Misuse

When you set your thermostat to a certain temperature, it works hard to keep it that way inside your home. So it doesn’t matter if it becomes warmer or cooler because the thermostat sensors will adjust the heat for you. If you increase the heat to account for the sudden drop, you are only overfiring your older boiler, and that counts as thermostat misuse.

Another example is when you constantly toggle the controls or participate in “thermostat wars” with your partner or roommate, that also contributes to decreasing your boiler’s lifespan. It forces your boiler to make frequent changes, and there might be a point where it can no longer keep up. 

Delayed Repairs

Nothing affects the boiler as much as neglecting repairs. For the most part, when the issues listed above happen, a quick and speedy repair can make things right. They rarely leave lasting impressions on your system. However, when you leave them alone, the worst-case scenario always happens, and you end up without heating when you need it the most. 

Plumbingforce offers clients same day service for emergency boiler repairs. If you want to address your heating problems as soon as possible, all you have to do is look for our experience boiler engineers!

How To Take Care Of Your Boiler

When it comes to taking care of your boiler, it is a balancing act. You need to be able to avoid making common mistakes while actively working to address its issues. You can set preventive measures in place, like a self-administrating anti-limescale solution and a magnaclean filter. There are a host of maintenance tips without calling an engineer:

  • Adjust the boiler pressure

  • Bleed your radiator

  • Drain and balance your system

  • Invest in a smart thermostat

By doing this, along with scheduling an annual maintenance check-up with your local heating engineer, you can make your boiler last longer. If you are looking for a new, professional team – Plumbingforce can match you with a Gas Safe registered engineer.

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When Should You Replace Your Boiler?

Most people think they should replace their boiler after 10 years. After all, that’s when efficiency starts to go down. However, machines aren’t like perishable food items. When they are well-cared for, they can last past their “expiration date.” Instead of basing your replacement on its years, keep an eye out for your broken boiler’s tell-tale signs:

  1. High gas/ fuel bills
  2. Noisy boiler and radiator
  3. Difficulty sourcing replacement parts
  4. Frequent breakdowns
  5. Fails to heat your home and water adequately

When these signs become commonplace, and you have your engineer on speed dial, you may be due for a replacement. 

How Much Does A Replacement Boiler Cost?

The cost of a replacement boiler depends on your boiler type (modern condensing boiler vs non-condensing boiler), brand (Viessmann boiler vs Worcester Bosch boilers) and model. They can cost anywhere from £500-2,500 for most household brands. For a more comprehensive look, you can learn more about replacement boilers here. 

*Note: The boiler price range listed is only an estimate and can be subject to change. Before your boiler installation, it is best to consult your heating engineer about the best option for your home. While you are at it, you can also get a free quote from your boiler installer to make sure you have the best price. 

While boilers are notoriously expensive, think about the savings you make along the way. You can enjoy lower fuel and energy bills and less frequent visits from your heating engineer. If you cannot find the budget for your replacement boiler, you can look into the UK’s green initiative for their new boiler grant. The grant allows residents to get a free boiler or have one heavily subsidised. You can take your pick from the sustainable options available like an electric boiler, combination boiler, or condensing boiler.

When it comes down to it, you can last without a boiler for long, especially given the UK’s winters. It is always best to treat them well and consider their long-term role in your home. If you need a helping hand, you can book your Gas Safe engineer online or call us at 0330 162 5329! No matter what type of boiler you have, a non-condensing boiler, system boiler, conventional boiler, gas boiler, or combi boiler, Plumbingforce can be your go-to service!

A Comprehensive Guide On Registering For An Ideal Boiler Warranty

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Boiler Maintenance

To most of us, a boiler is a vital part of our daily lives, essentially running every day from the moment it is installed in your home. And because you’ll have it running or a long time, it’s best that you prepare for the possible consequences of its wear and tear.

One way of doing this is by making sure you are getting the best deal possible when it comes to the standard boiler warranty, which usually covers a certain warranty period beginning on the day you have your new boiler installed. A long-term warranty is handy, especially if you don’t want to deal with a boiler emergency on your hands.

If you have recently purchased a new Ideal boiler, or are simply curious about what is covered by the warranty on your old boiler from Ideal, this guide is for you! Here, we are going to discuss the standard boiler guarantee granted by Ideal. You will also learn about getting an extended warranty, boiler warranty registration, keeping your Ideal boiler warranty valid, and many more. 

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Ideal: A Heating Authority

Ideal Boilers, a boiler manufacturer since the early 1900s, has become a household name known for meeting the evolving central heating system and hot water needs of many homeowners in the UK. They offer a wide range of boilers, each suitable to your specific needs.

They can provide you with a combi boiler, a standard gas boiler, an electric boiler, a system boiler, a condensing boiler, or any other kind of boiler you need. Ideal also offers radiators, heat pump and heat pump accessories, hot water cylinder, and many more.

To compare and identify which kind of boiler is best suitable for you, visit Ideal Boilers’ website.

Ideal’s Standard Boiler Warranty

A new boiler from Ideal always comes with a standard warranty. It covers any manufacturing issue (i.e., mechanical or electrical breakdowns due to defective materials or quality) which could have originated from the boiler itself. Typically an Ideal Boiler warranty lasts from two years to 10 years, depending on the type of boiler you purchase.

This warranty period, however, may be shortened to 12 months if you fail to register your warranty within 30 days of purchasing your boiler.

If the company finds that their standard warranty covers you, you will be eligible to get boiler parts and labour repair services, or a replacement boiler, all free of charge.

Do note though, that if Ideal deems that the defect, damage, or breakdown was caused by user misuse, third party interference, accidents, or inadequate servicing and maintenance of the boiler, the boiler warranty will be void.

How To Register Your Boiler Warranty

As mentioned above, registering your warranty within the 30 days of your purchase is vital to keeping your original warranty period because failure to do so will cut it down to twelve months. Here’s how to register your boiler warranty:

Visit the Ideal website and click “Register Warranty.” Complete all sections and submit to register your boiler. Alternatively, you may call Ideal’s customer service team at 01482 498660. Take note of the boiler serial number, as it will be required for both methods of registration.

How To Keep Your Ideal Warranty Valid

Aside from those mentioned above, there are a few more things that could render you warranty void. To prevent these from happening, take note of the following:

  • Make sure your boiler is installed and commissioned with 12 months of manufacture by a Gas Safe registered engineer. Moreover, the boiler should be installed following the guidelines in the installation and servicing booklet that is provided with the boiler.
  • The Benchmark commissioning sheet must be accomplished by the installer and left with your boiler.
  • To make sure that your Ideal boiler warranty starts from the date of installation, you must provide proof of purchase. Otherwise, the warranty will begin from the manufacture date.
  • A Gas Safe registered engineer should annually be servicing your Ideal boiler. Not only is this a crucial step in keeping valid your boiler warranty, but it will also make sure you won’t have to pay for costly repairs in the future.
  • You may not move your boiler from its place of installation without consent from the manufacturer.

 

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Getting An Extended Boiler Warranty

Companies like Ideal also offer extended warranty for some of their customers. To extend your Ideal boiler warranty, you may:

  1. Get your Ideal boiler installed by an accredited installer or heating engineer. Many accredited installers may be able to offer you a longer guarantee, thanks to the points system Ideal has with their accredited installers.
  2. Ask if Ideal is offering promotional warranties, which means the standard warranty is extended, free of charge. This is something that Ideal sometimes does, so be sure to ask, as you may be lucky enough to have bought your boiler at the right time!

It would also be wise to get an Ideal boiler that has a long standard warranty period. Some models you may want to check out are:

  1. Ideal Logic Max Combi Boiler
  2. Ideal Vogue Max Combi Boiler
  3. Ideal Logic Max Heat Regular Gas Boiler
  4. Ideal Vogue Max System Gas Boiler

Final Thoughts

If you need help in deciding which Ideal boiler is the best for you or are simply in need of a Gas Safe heating engineer to service and maintain your Ideal boiler, do not hesitate to reach out to Plumbingforce!

A Comprehensive Guide For Your Boiler Flues

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Boiler flues

Every part of your central heating system is essential, from the boiler down to your flues. Everything works together to heat your home safely. For the most part, that means maintaining your current boiler and bleeding your radiator at least once a year. But what about your flues? 

Boiler flues are the unsung heroes of your heating system, and they should be given the same amount of consideration as you do with your boiler. After all, whether you rent a flat or own a house, it is important to learn about how different parts work. When you have a good idea about their role in the overall system, you can better care for your home, and in turn, it will take better care of you. 

What Is A Boiler Flue?

While your boiler works hard to keep your house warm, your flues work to keep it safe for you to live in. They act as the exhaust pipe of your home. It connects your boiler to the outside and is the pathway for your heating by-products like air, gas, and condensation. 

While these things are not particularly harmful in small doses, they can easily build up and become a health hazard. Condensation can lead to mould and combustion by-products to carbon monoxide poisoning, among many others. With your flues and proper ventilation, you can keep your place safe and warm.

How Do They Work?

In most fuel-burning models, like a gas boiler or oil boiler, you get your heat from combustion. This process creates waste gas, and too much of it can negatively affect your health. Your boiler flue runs from the combustion chamber to the nearest external wall to properly expel the fumes according to the rules and regulations. It travels through the pipes with the help of a fan to the boiler flue terminal. This terminal takes care of releasing exhaust gases and water vapour while also allowing fresh air to enter. 

However, for modern condensing boilers, this process is different. Your flue has a more integral role in heating your home. Instead of quickly expelling the gas, it first passes through the heat exchanger. It goes through the chamber where cold water re-enters the boiler and partially heats it before leaving the house. The cooled water vapour becomes condensate and has a separate drain, while the rest of the gases exit through the boiler flue terminal. Since the flue gases pass a bit of the heat back, condensing boilers are more efficient. 

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How Much Would It Take To Install A Proper Flue?

It is difficult to give a proper average for the cost of installing a boiler flue because every person’s set up can be unique. Besides considering the house’s shape and structure, you also have to think about the placement of the flue terminal. In crowded neighbourhoods, you need to make sure that people in the surrounding area, including passersby, are not affected by the released gas and air. Your flue system has so many variations like having a square or rounded flue pipe or a horizontal or vertical flue. 

For a regular, horizontal flue kit, you can find one within the £36-£150 range. Vertical flue kits are not that different but are considered more expensive because of the changes in the scaffolding and tiling. It usually has more parts to accommodate your pitches or flat roof. Even without accounting for labour, you can add £100-£200. 

Besides the main pipe and terminal, there are other accessories like a flue guard, which retails from £12 to £25, and a boiler plume kit, which can range from £75 to £150. If you are installing your flue for the first time, the total price could go from £200 to £350. 

When you already have one in place and are looking to redirect it, the job should cost around £250-£300. Flue systems involve a lot of other trade work with opening walls and ceilings. So it isn’t unheard of to have a £900 bill for major upgrades, given the labour and material costs. 

As tempting as it is to DIY your installation, it can only be done by Gas Safe registered companies to ensure that everything is secure. You can call us here at Plumbingforce for a local heating engineer. If you want a more exact quote, you can submit a risk-free enquiry, and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

 *Note that the prices shown are just estimates. There are several factors that may affect your total bill. Discuss the actual price with your plumber before proceeding with any construction.

Important Things To Take Note 

Not All Boilers Have Flues

While most boilers have flues, it is possible not to have one. Traditional back boilers have an open system and are the only type of boiler that does not have flues. While it might seem like an appealing option, they are tightly regulated and can be very dangerous when they are not handled properly. They are very inefficient, and there is a nationwide movement for more sustainable options like a condensing boiler or combi boiler. 

Flue Shapes And Sizes

If you are repairing/ replacing your flue pipes, remember that there is no one-size-fits-all kit. Older homes tend to have a square flue with 15 mm pipes. When this is the case, chances are your system is not up to code, and it can be difficult to replace parts without having them custom-made. There have been many changes with the rules and regulations. Unless you have a listed home, you should look into upgrading your system. If you have a more recent building, you can work with the regular 22 mm round flue.

Flue Inspection Hatch

Besides figuring out where to position your flue, you should also consider how to make them accessible. Most homes in the UK have an inspection hatch that allows Gas Safe registered engineers to inspect and maintain your system properly. When your boiler flue is acting out, they should be able to easily diagnose the problem. 

Where Can I Find My Boiler Flue?

Your boiler flue usually takes the shortest and straightest route to the outside. It is located behind the boiler and exits through the nearest external wall. However, since homes vary, there is no fixed place. Most homes keep their boilers in the attic or loft, but you can also find them in basements and small closets. As long as it meets the boiler and flue regulations, you can find your boiler flue just about anywhere. 

If you have a vertical flue, then it comes out from the top of your boiler and exits through the roof. It acts and looks like a chimney, but instead of billowing smoke, you get steam – and lots of it. Given the location of vertical flues, you need to make sure that it is properly sealed. Unlike horizontal flues that get a bit of protection from the wind and rain with neighbouring buildings and roof overhangs, vertical flues are left to the elements. You may need to invest more to protect your flue terminal. 

The Best Location For Your Flue

The best place for your flue is one that meets regulations and serves you for a long time. When you are planning your build, envision the changes that may happen around the neighbourhood. What might be an excellent location for your boiler flue terminal might be an issue when the building next door is completed. You may be forced to add a plume deflector to redirect the air and gas away from the now busy area. When you manage to find a location that ticks off both boxes, you save yourself from the hassle. 

When in doubt about where to put your boiler flue, it is always best to consult an engineer and bring up your concerns. They can inspect your property and come up with the most satisfying solution. For new boiler installations, you can contact us here at Plumbingforce!

What Are The Boiler Flue Regulations? 

Even with the professionals on the case, it wouldn’t hurt to be aware of the boiler flue regulations. Here is a brief rundown: 

  1. When the flue terminal is towards a frequently used pathway, it should be 2.1 m above ground level.
  2. When it is near a window or air vent, it should be 300 mm away (either above, below or beside the opening). 
  3. It should be 75 mm below guttering and drain pipes.
  4. It should be 200 mm below the eaves/roof overhangs. 
  5. For vertical flues, it should be 2 m below roof windows/skylights.
  6. For vertical flues, it should also be 300 mm above the roof pitch or flat roof. 

When you have your flues installed, you should make sure the area is clear. Most boilers are kept in rooms filled with other items. If this is the case for you, leave a little bit of leeway between your heating system and other items. 

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The Importance Of Your Boiler Flue and Proper Ventilation

Your boiler flue and ventilation system keeps your gas appliances working safely and efficiently. It keeps a decent fresh air supply for proper combustion and gets rid of waste gases. The one you should keep an eye out for is carbon monoxide.

Carbon monoxide is a colourless and odourless gas. Many consider it a silent killer because its effects are gradual and symptoms are often associated with other ailments. When you get headaches and feel nauseated, is it carbon monoxide poisoning or a stressful week? 

To avoid CO poisoning, you should have proper gas safety measures in place. Besides working closely with your gas engineer and keeping your boiler and flues in tip-top shape, you can also look into CO detectors to round out your system. With this in place, you can prevent the worst from happening. 

Our home is meant to be a safe space to rest and recharge. It should never be a health and safety hazard. While you don’t see your flue system, they are an integral part of your home’s heating and ventilation. 

For any heating issue, you can book our services online or call us at 0330 162 5329. We handle regular boiler maintenance and installations along with same day emergency repairs. When you need immediate service, Plumbingforce is more than ready to address your needs.

What Your Noisy Boiler Is Trying To Telling You

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Boiler Maintenance

Windows can rattle, and floorboards can creak. The loud, banging noises of the boiler should be right at home with all the other sounds of a well-lived house. It can be the new headliner in the midnight concerts that happen inside your house. 

Whether you mind these sounds or not, homeowners are encouraged to investigate them since these sounds often point out a problem. For example, drips mean there is a leaky tap and creaks mean there is a loose floorboard. While most of these sounds are harmless, the same cannot be said for boiler noise. 

As a heavy-duty machine, wear and tear can lead to more significant heating problems. When your noisy house is trying to tell you something, it is best to pay close attention. 

Do You Have A Noisy Boiler?

The thumps and hisses can come from different parts of the house, from your central heating system’s pumps and radiator to your plumbing’s pipework and taps. It isn’t difficult to check whether the noise is coming from your boiler or not.

When you hear something out of the ordinary, make it a point to find out what is causing the sound. You can work your way down from a list of the usual suspects like your boiler, radiator, pipework, taps, and showerhead, among many others. By following this list, you can quickly identify the issue and address the problem. 

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So Why Is My Boiler Making Noise?

When you have a noisy boiler, there is a high chance something wrong with your unit. Sometimes it can be fixed with proper annual maintenance by a professional heating engineer, and other times it may signal the final days of your boiler. If you want to avoid paying the exorbitant fees for a new boiler installation, pay attention to your boiler’s unusual noises. 

As soon as you hear the whistling, hisses, gurgling, rattling, or a loud bang, contact your local engineer from Plumbingforce. They can take over issues that you cannot do on your own. With their expertise, your boiler can go back to running smoothly and quietly. You manage to achieve two things at once: 

  1. Keep your central heating in good shape.
  2. Get rid of the boiler noises that keep you up at night. 

It is a win-win situation! 

Common Sounds And Their Causes 

A noisy central heating system can usually be chalked up to poor maintenance. When you stick to your annual boiler checkup and follow the basic maintenance steps, you shouldn’t have to deal with a noisy boiler.

There are several types of sounds you might encounter, and there may be a bit of overlap with the causes of these sounds. Here are some of the things you might hear when your boiler is acting out: 

Rattling

The rattling noise sounds like there is something stuck in your boiler, and it is being tossed around. It is quite loud, and it tends to be very inconsistent. 

Cause

There are two leading causes of rattling in your boiler. The first is that there are loose screws and components that shake and “rattle” when the unit is in use. You can look out for loose valves or any unclipped pipes. The second is because of the excess air in the system. When your central heating system isn’t properly balanced, it can mess with the pressure and create the rattling sound. 

Solution 

When you have to deal with loose screws and components, you can take your screwdriver and wrench and inspect your boiler. As long as it is exposed, you should be able to tighten them with no problem. However, if the sound is coming from the pipes, then step back and call a plumber or heating engineer to take a look.

If the rattling comes from excess air in the system, you can opt to DIY the repair. You can learn how to balance your boiler and radiator here.  

Banging

The banging noise has several degrees of intensity. The mild version sounds similar to the rattling though a bit more heavy and infrequent. The strong version has a loud bang, and the sound and volume can make you feel like the walls are coming down. It can be very startling and problematic if you are a light sleeper or if you have a lot of anxiety. 

Cause 

Older models are more likely to suffer from boiler kettling, causing loud bangs and pops. Boiler kettling happens when there is debris build-up in the heat exchanger. The debris usually comes from the limescale in hard water. When it builds up, it chips the metal bit by bit adding rust and grime. It can create blockages that clog and pop, which ultimately increases the trapped air in the system.  

Solution

While kettling isn’t a real explosion, it can be very troublesome. When the debris builds up, it can speed up the wear and tear of your pipework, increase your energy bills, and affect the other elements of your central heating system. 

Take note that only a heating engineer can address boiler kettling properly. They need to drain your system and have your boiler and radiator power flushed. Once the sludge is out of the system, you should have a quiet boiler. To maintain the work they did and prevent the loud banging noise, you can invest in a magnaclean filter and an anti-limescale solution. 

If you have never heard about the filter before, you can read more about the magnaclean filters here. 

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Tapping

The tapping noise is very similar to the previous two. It sounds like there is a piece of metal constantly hitting the pipes. While it is softer than the banging, it can still be frustrating to hear around the clock. 

Cause 

Again the cause is due to boiler kettling. The build-up of debris in the heat exchanger affects the flow of the system. The sound typically comes up when the circulating pump is on, so expect it when you are washing the dishes, taking a shower, or flushing the toilet. 

Solution

There is no DIY fix for this. It would be best if you had your central heating professionally cleaned to address these problems. To ensure that tapping sound does not recur, remember to invest in proper boiler maintenance.

Humming/ Vibrating/ Droning 

Not all boiler noises are disruptive or distracting. The humming noise, for example, is like a muffled fan. Unlike the others listed here, it is a lot softer and easier to get used to every day. 

Cause 

If you have an electric or combi boiler, this sound is quite common, even if the model is new. It just comes with the mechanism in the boiler. However, if your boiler was originally soundless, there are several possibilities as to whether it is humming/ vibrating. 

The first is a loose component with your water heater or with your boiler fan. The second is with the build-up like sludge and limescale inside your boiler. And the third can be because of high boiler pressure. When the pressure is high, your boiler valves may hum a bit. The vibrations can also come from the travelling hot water or air being circulated through the pipes.

Solution

The solution for a humming boiler is split between DIY tasks and your boiler engineer. When the problem is the boiler pressure, you can adjust that on your own. If you have never done it before, you can consult our guide for pressuring your boiler. 

You can also take your trusty screwdriver and wrench and tighten the loose component when it is visible. However, if the issue is on the inside, you need to get a Gas Safe heating engineer to take care of it. The same goes for cleaning a debris-filled central-heating system. 

Hissing

The hissing of your boiler is very similar to having a kettle on top of your stove. It is a high whistling noise that can sound very eerie at the dead of night. 

Cause

The hissing noise can be linked to the boiler kettling or the trapped air in the system. 

Solution

Since the hissing sound is often associated with air and gases, you need to contact a Gas Safe engineer. If it is a kettling problem, they are more than qualified to power flush your system to eliminate the debris. However, in the off-chance that the hissing is not coming from your boiler but a faulty flue or gas appliance, they can easily remedy that. 

When the hissing is from trapped air, you can bleed your radiator and adjust the boiler pressure yourself with the manufacturer’s manual and the pressure gauge. 

When you live in an area with hard water, you need to learn to do this regularly. For preventive measures, you can invest in filters and an anti-limescale solution to take care of the sediments. It should keep your boiler’s heat exchanger clear of any rust and grime.

Gurgling/ Dripping

The gurgling noise of the boiler sounds similar to the ones in your water pipes or taps, so it wouldn’t be strange to assume that you have a plumbing problem over a heating one. However, if you hear something bubbling or dripping near your boiler, it probably is. 

Cause 

The common cause of the gurgling sound is trapped air or by a frozen condensate pipe. 

Solution

When there is trapped air in your boiler, you can fix it by bleeding your radiators. If you finish bleeding them, but you still hear the dripping sound, and it is within the late autumn to early spring, it must be a frozen pipe. 

When winter comes around, homeowners are advised to lag their pipes to ensure that this does not happen. When you have a frozen pipe, it can negatively affect both your plumbing and heating system. When it is frozen, you can slowly thaw the condensate pipe with a bit of patience and hot water. 

The sounds listed here are the most common ones, but there are many other unusual noises your furnace can make. When left unchecked, it can ultimately lead to poor water pressure, uneven heat distribution, dirty pipes can affect the performance of your heating system. As your system becomes more and more inefficient, you may end up with a faulty boiler and thermostat. In the worst-case scenario, you may need to invest in a new boiler instead of repairing your current one, and that can set you back £500-£1,500. 

Dealing With Your Noisy Boiler

UK residents should never wait for things to be so bad that you need your boiler to hiss and pop before you properly maintain it. Since they are an essential part of your daily life and expensive to replace, you are encouraged to care for them properly. 

When you find out your boiler is making noise, try the DIY methods listed above. When they fail, work with a heating engineer to get your boiler to work smoothly and quietly. To ensure that you get the right fix the first time around, record the sounds on your phone. As descriptive as the words “hissing” and “banging” are, it is best to have the same frame of reference.

You can book Plumbingforce’s local engineers online or call us at 0330 162 5329, so we can have a look. We offer same day service for boiler maintenance, repairs, and installations. With Plumbingforce, you can go back to enjoying a quiet and peaceful heating system in no time!

Can You Sell Your House With A Broken Boiler?

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house boiler

As you go through the final checks with your Gas Safe registered engineer, you find out your boiler is broken. You are crushed. The central heating system plays such an integral role in every UK home, from the hot water for your tea to the heating during winter, you cannot neglect it. You quickly need to decide what to do next or else you are left with selling a house with a broken boiler. 

It takes an average of 102 days to sell property in the UK, so you don’t have long to consider your options. If you find yourself torn between selling the home as-is or having a new boiler installation, consider all the possibilities discussed below: 

The Short Answer: Yes

If we were to take the question at face-value, then yes, you can sell your house with a broken boiler. There are so many old homes in the UK, in different states of disrepair. There are bound to be buyers who are more interested in the land and location than they would with the house’s features. As long as your property has many other redeeming qualities, a broken boiler will not prevent you from making a sale. However, this scenario is only possible when you are willing to compromise. 

How Can You Sell Your House With A Broken Boiler

When you choose to sell your house as-is, you have to be very deliberate with your marketing or else you won’t get to sell it at the best price. There are only three types of buyers who wouldn’t mind a broken boiler: flippers, property developers, or generally residents who don’t have a choice.

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Market As A Fixer-Upper

There are many UK residents out there who want to put the blood, sweat, and tears into making the house their own while saving a couple of pounds. As long as your home has good bones in other areas, a faulty boiler shouldn’t be a problem. 

Flippers tend to look at properties with the possibilities in mind. So make sure to highlight assets they can work with in the future. Do you get decent natural light? What kind of water do you get in the area? Is there a garden? Do you have original hardwood floors? While your property information sheet covers all of these things, it will never set the scene the same way you would by sharing your personal experience. 

While a faulty boiler shouldn’t deter the sale, saying you have a broken boiler is like releasing fish blood in shark-infested waters. They will bargain–hard. Even if you try to account for the boiler cost, they will try to bring down the property price to the lowest possible. Announcing a faulty boiler becomes a red flag that signals buyers that there might be other problems, and they have good reason to be worried. 

For example, a common problem with a faulty boiler is carbon monoxide poisoning. If the boiler is damaged, who is to say that the pipes are also in good condition? Your potential buyers may be on their guard. However, with a bit of work, you should be able to make the sale.

Sell To Property Developers

The second option is to sell it to property developers or landlords. They have the time and capital to deal with whatever you throw at them. If they are planning on demolishing your current structure, your old boiler should be a non-issue. 

However, there is a clincher. Property developers are only interested in places that can generate profit, either from a private tenant or commercial rental income. There has to be enough interest in the area before you can set the price. If you do not have the right location or square footage, they may not be interested in your house, and there is little you can do about it. 

Capitalise On The Limited Market

The last route depends on where you live. If there aren’t many houses available in the area, people might be willing to overlook your listing’s shortcomings. While 59% of renters believe they cannot afford to buy their own home, there is still massive interest. Buying is more cost-efficient than renting and with the right market. 

The silver lining with buying a house without a functioning boiler is that they can choose what type they want. There are so many options in the market from the conventional boiler, gas boiler, condensing boiler, to the combination (combi) boiler, electric boiler. They can also find their own boiler insurance cover and find the conditions that best suit them. 

The reality is that if they were stuck with an old, albeit functioning, boiler they would have to pay more. Boiler maintenance, quick repair service, and expensive energy bills will be the new normal, and it will stay that way until the buyer decides to replace it. A new boiler may be expensive, but when compared to the fuel-hungry models, it is no competition in the long-run. 

Whether you are selling your home to an aspiring landlord, first-time homeowner, or property developer, you have to market with their niches in mind. By doing so, you are sure to make a sale.

But Should You Sell A House With A Broken Boiler?

While there are plenty of ways to get your house on the market, should you even bother selling a house with a broken boiler? You have to meet so many conditions before you even make a sale. And even if you manage to fulfil them, there is no guarantee that you can get the best price. 

Cost-Benefit Analysis

Sellers are encouraged to do a basic cost-benefit analysis to ensure they are making the right decision. While it might be expensive to hire a professional boiler engineer to repair or replace your boiler, do not count them out just yet. 

For the sake of being able to sell the house at a profit, many homeowners make last-minute improvements as an investment. A good cleaning and splash of paint ought to cover up some of the wear and tear. Others even make the extra effort to update certain features to be more attractive to buyers. After all, who can say no to your asking price when you have smart appliances, modern finishes, and a system that is in tip-top shape? 

These upgrades are meant to make your house more competitive in the market. However, not all home improvements pay off. There are only a handful of projects that people will consider a good investment. So while that fresh coat of paint might be nice, it doesn’t exactly inspire a long-term commitment. A new boiler though is an investment that can serve the family 10 to 20 years into the future. Doesn’t that sound like a better deal?

If you are considering the refurbishing route, pay attention to the parts of the house that will get the most amount of use. Some examples of excellent investments are your gas hob, countertop, radiator, plumbing, electrical wiring, and central heating. All of these things play a vital role in how you go about your day. The kitchen and the bathroom are key areas you should target. Everything besides the ones listed here can be considered a bonus. 

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The Exception To The Rule

Most cases would dictate that it is better to make the boiler repairs, but there are times when it would be too expensive. If you have an old home with an even older boiler, the repair might be too expensive. Outdated models require different pipework, and if you cannot repair the one you have on hand, it means buying a new boiler. 

To fix that as the seller, you would need to rip out your old pipes just to install your replacement. Think about the drywall and flooring you have to open up, along with getting the planning permission from the local council and getting trade workers to start on the work. It can be a logistical nightmare that will make a massive dent in your finances. In this case, it might be better to settle on a lower price.

Ethical Conundrum

When you are facing the exception to the rule, it can be challenging to make a decision. It is so tempting just to leave it be and let the consequences be damned. Do you have to mention the broken boiler? How detailed should your property information form really have to be? Can’t the buyer shoulder the replacement? Shouldn’t the burden be on the buyers to properly inspect the property? Sellers are forced to struggle with these questions, and it isn’t easy to find a favourable solution. 

The best way to answer this question is by asking yourself what you would do if you were in the buyer’s position. Imagine seeing your home for the first time, would a broken boiler be a deal-breaker? If the sale went through and you found out the boiler is broken, what would you do? Heating is such an integral part of life in the UK. It would be extremely disappointing to move into your new place and find out not everything is as advertised. 

Grey Areas

There are several grey areas, and there are many cases where the buyer and seller toss the responsibility back and forth. A common example is when the boiler breakdown happens after the sale, but before the new owners had the chance to settle. The break would be suspiciously close. It can be very clear to see who is responsible for the faulty boiler when it was discovered before the paperwork has been signed, and the stamp duty tax has been paid. It would be on the seller, and anything after the sale will be on the buyer. 

However, if you knew that the boiler was broken and made the sale without informing them or purposefully hiding that information, then it can be easy to get into hot water. Remember, sellers must disclose all relevant details about the home, including the broken boiler. Failing to do so can lead to long nasty emails and calls and, in the worst-case scenario – a lawsuit. 

The Long Answer: It Depends

The real answer to the question, “can you sell your house with a broken boiler?” shouldn’t be a matter of strategy. You technically can sell your home, but would you want to? Have you exhausted all your resources in making sure your place is move-in ready? 

If you feel uncomfortable with walking the legal and moral grey line, you should work on addressing the problem. You can contact Plumbingforce’s local heating engineer for a proper inspection. They can check your gas appliance and the gas supply line. If your boiler needs to be repaired or replaced, they can take over. You can check out our blog on how to find a replacement boiler for tips and tricks.

When the budget is tight, the UK has a green deal initiative, which aims to provide accessible heating. They can provide you with wall insulation, double glazing, and a boiler grant. You can find something energy-efficient like a combi boiler for free or at a significant discount. Only when you exhaust all these options do you consider selling your house as-is? Given all the trouble to sell a house without a working boiler, it is better to pay attention to proper boiler maintenance in the future. 

Regardless of your decision, it is always helpful to get a plumber’s opinion. You can book us online, or you can call us at 0330 162 5329. Whether you need a Gas Safety certificate, same day boiler repair, or any other inspection for your heating or plumbing–you can depend on Plumbingforce to have an expert ready!

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