6 Surprising Signs Your Boiler Is On The Blink

Posted by PHG Mechanical
Last updated 9th February 2021
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  • Your boiler is, arguably, one of the most important appliances in your home. It sits at the heart of your central heating system, provides hot water to the taps and helps maintain heat in the radiators. On average, you can expect your boiler to last between 10 - 15 years, depending on the demands it’s under every single day. However, it will inevitably begin to show signs that it is on the brink and needs replacing.

    Knowing the signs to look out for when your boiler is coming to the end of its life helps you to plan for repairs or replacements. It allows you to minimise the risk of getting suddenly caught out without any hot water or heating - a significant issue in Winter or if you live with small children. PHG Mechanical are experts when it comes to boiler maintenance and we’ve worked with many clients over the years facing these exact same issues.

    It’s always better to be prepared, especially with large financial investments. In this blog, let’s take a look at 6 common signs that your boiler is on it’s way out - whether you live in a flat, maisonette or house.

    • Gas fault codes
    • Lack of pressure
    • Excessive noise
    • Cold radiators
    • Loss of hot water
    • Darker smoke emitting from flue
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    • 1. Gas fault codes

      Most modern boilers have a system by which they can show an error code if they detect a problem. These are used by engineers to identify the issue and rectify it, if possible. An E133 code indicates that the gas supply to the boiler has been interrupted, the ignition has failed or the flame hasn’t been detected. As gas is the primary form of ignition, this generally means that one of the key components within the boiler is starting to fail. This is also one of the most common signs that a boiler is on its way out.

      With some models, it is harder to identify the exact issue. This could be due to your specific boiler not having a clear digital screen or using differing codes. Getting a professional engineer, like those at PHG Mechanical, in when you notice an issue is vital as they will be able to quickly isolate the problem and advise.

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    • 2. Lack of pressure

      For your boiler to function properly, it needs to maintain consistent pressure. This means the level of water and air needs to stand balanced in order to force water to the areas around the home where it is needed. The balance here has to be exact – too little and the water won’t flow properly but too high and it will pass through too quickly.

      The boiler pressure gauge, normally fixed to the front, will show you whether this has dropped. Generally, there is a green zone which is the optimal pressure for a boiler when it is switched off. As you turn on taps, increase central heating or switch on radiators, this will increase slightly but should still drop down afterwards. If it doesn’t, there could be a water leak, underlying fault or simply wear-and-tear impacting performance.

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    • 3. Excessive noise

      While some sounds are entirely normal with boilers and central heating systems, these shouldn’t be excessive. If your boiler is banging, vibrating or humming, this could be a sign that internal components aren’t properly fixed into place. Noise is also a sign of lost pressure and can be linked to pump failure. While many of these issues can be fixed on their own, they could also be a sign of wear-and-tear when paired with others on our list.

      Keep an ear out and notify a professional plumber if you notice the noises changing over time. Older boilers will be much louder and likely have more issues than modern alternatives.

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    • 4. Radiators not heating up

      As we mentioned above, your boiler is integral to your central heating system. If you notice that your radiators stay cold, either all over or in specific spots, this could be a sign that your boiler is on its way out.

      In some instances, flushing the system or bleeding the radiator will help to redistribute the water and eliminate air pockets. However, if this doesn’t work, you may need to consider a replacement boiler.

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    • 5. Lack of hot water

      Not being able to get hot water or finding that it takes a long time to heat up could be linked to a faulty thermostat or low flow rates. As one of the most integral jobs that your boiler has to do, lacking hot water is a sign that should never be ignored.

      Speaking to a professional engineer will help to identify the issue and, hopefully, rectify it in a cost-effective manner. However, if this cannot be done, you will need to invest in a new model.

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    • 6. Dark smoke coming from flue

      This is potentially one of the most dangerous signs that your boiler is nearly at the end of its lifespan. Commonly found with oil burners but also noted in gas boilers, this is generally a sign of improper burning. There may be a mixture of air in the accelerant, a blocked fuel nozzle or obstruction somewhere within the boiler. With oil burners, there is the potential for excess oil to suddenly ignite and cause a significant fire.

      A small amount of clear or white smoke is generally normal but if you notice darker smoke comes from the flue, you need to contact a qualified plumber or engineer immediately.

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  • Are you facing any of these problems?

    When it comes to your boiler, it pays to invest in a good maintenance plan and to care for it regularly. However, it is inevitable that, at some point, it will come to the end of its life. If you’ve noted any or all of the signs we listed in the blog above, contact our team here at PHG Mechanical.
    Many common issues with boilers can be repaired. However, it’s always worth understanding the cost implications here. For older models, sourcing the right parts and fitting them can lead to excessive labour times and, therefore, turn out to be a less viable option financially. Additionally, the odd fix here and there may not be enough to prevent breakdowns in the future.
    Replacement boilers can be a costly investment but we are here to help you make the right decision for both commercial or residential properties. Our engineers will examine the most suitable type of fuel for your property, advising on efficiency and correct maintenance. The right boiler will see you through the next decade and possibly beyond so, while the initial investment may be high, the long-term benefits will generally far outweigh this.

    When it comes to your boiler, it pays to invest in a good maintenance plan and to care for it regularly. However, it is inevitable that, at some point, it will come to the end of its life. If you’ve noted any or all of the signs we listed in the blog above, contact our team here at PHG Mechanical.

    Many common issues with boilers can be repaired. However, it’s always worth understanding the cost implications here. For older models, sourcing the right parts and fitting them can lead to excessive labour times and, therefore, turn out to be a less viable option financially. Additionally, the odd fix here and there may not be enough to prevent breakdowns in the future.

    Replacement boilers can be a costly investment but we are here to help you make the right decision for both commercial or residential properties. Our engineers will examine the most suitable type of fuel for your property, advising on efficiency and correct maintenance. The right boiler will see you through the next decade and possibly beyond so, while the initial investment may be high, the long-term benefits will generally far outweigh this.

    Are you facing any of these problems?