What to Do If Your Boiler Stops Working: Step-by-Step Guide
Waking up to no hot water or central heating in the middle of winter? A boiler breakdown can feel like a nightmare, especially in a busy London household. But before you panic or book an emergency callout, there are a few simple checks you can do that might solve the problem.
At Pleasant Plumbers, we’re called to hundreds of boiler faults across London every year — and many are resolved in minutes. Here’s what to do if your boiler stops working.
Step 1: Check the Power
Start by making sure your boiler has power.
- Is there a tripped fuse or blown circuit?
- Has there been a power cut in your area?
Reset the boiler if needed and make sure the display screen is lit.
Step 2: Check the Boiler Pressure
Your boiler pressure gauge should read between 1.0 and 1.5 bar when cold. If it’s too low, the system may have shut down to protect itself.
Use the filling loop under the boiler to top it up — but don’t overfill.
Step 3: Check the Thermostat and Timer
Make sure the thermostat is turned up high enough to trigger heating.
Also, confirm your timer hasn’t reset after a power cut. Smart thermostats can also lose connection and require rebooting.
Step 4: Reset the Boiler
Look for a reset button (usually beneath the control panel or on the front). Hold it for a few seconds. If the boiler relights and starts working, you’re back in business.
Step 5: Look for Error Codes
Modern boilers like Vaillant, Worcester Bosch, and Ideal display fault codes when something’s wrong. Refer to the boiler manual or call Pleasant Plumbers for guidance on what the code means.
Step 6: Check for Frozen Condensate Pipe
In freezing weather, the plastic pipe outside your home may freeze and block flow. Thaw it gently with warm (not boiling) water and try resetting the boiler again.
Still Not Working? Call Pleasant Plumbers
If your boiler still isn’t working after these checks, don’t ignore the issue. It could be a faulty sensor, pump, diverter valve or ignition component.
At Pleasant Plumbers, our Gas Safe heating engineers in London offer fast-response diagnostics and boiler repairs across Greater London.
📲 Call or WhatsApp 0800 046 1000
📧 Email [email protected]
🌐 Visit pleasantplumbers.com
Pleasant Plumbers – Getting your heating back on, fast.
Searching 'Plumber Near Me?' Plumber London or Commercial Plumber London? We operate all across London! If you need a trusted plumber in London then get in touch with us today on 0800 046 1000 or email us on [email protected]