Gas boiler repairs, maintenance and installation of central heating systems
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In An Emergeny
If you think you can smell gas ring 0800 111 999. Open doors and windows to ventilate the area and distinguish any naked flames. Do not use any electrical switches. If possible turn off the gas using the emergency control lever by the gas meter.
If you have an uncontrollable water leak turn off the mains water stopcock (sometimes found under the kitchen sink) and run the bath and sink taps to drain the system.
Frozen condensate pipe advice
Newer condensing boilers produce a small amount of discharge water (condensate) from underneath the boiler and this is taken away via a discharge pipe. If the pipe (usually white) runs externally it may freeze in very cold weather causing the boiler to stop working. Only when practical and safe to do so, pour warm water across the pipe to defrost the frozen water within. You may also need to reset the boiler. If in doubt always call an qualified engineer.
Radiator bleeding advice
Turn the heating off and use a radiator bleed key to open the radiator bleed nipple very slightly (about ¼ turn). Place a cloth or paper towel under the radiator valve. If there is air in the radiator you will hear a hiss as it escapes. Water will leak out once there is no remaining air, and you can then tighten the bleed nipple.
Low water pressure
Some central heating systems will stop working if the system pressure becomes too low. You will know if you have a pressurised system by the pressure gauge on the front or underneath of the boiler. The pressure should not fall below 1/2 bar. To increase pressure, look for a silver braided hose that will need connecting (if not already) between 2 valves: this is the link pipe between mains water and the heating system. Slowly turn one or both (if fitted) valves to depressurise. Follow your particular boiler guide on how to top up with the silver braided hose, or the white link key for a Worcester Bosch boiler. These are the most common but there are other boilers and scenarios where this information will not apply.
Sticking thermostatic radiator valves
Some radiators fitted with Thermostatic Radiator Valves (TRV’S) may not work because the valve has become jammed in the closed position. With most valves you can open the valve fully and unscrew the top of the valve by hand, then very gently tap the upright pin a few times with a small hammer. This will often release a valve that has been stuck in the closed position for some time. Refit the valve head and see if it works.