To avoid any big issues when you need your boiler to work the most in a few months, you should tackle any underlying problems as soon as possible.
As the mercury soars, it’s easy to forget about your trusty boiler, but energy experts at BOXT are urging homeowners not to neglect their heating systems during the summer sizzle.
They’ve dished out a handy six-step guide to keep your boiler in tip-top shape, ensuring you’re not left in the cold when winter makes its chilly comeback.
Andy Kerr, the brains behind BOXT, advises: “By following these maintenance steps, you can keep your home heating in good condition throughout the summer and ensure it’s ready for the colder months ahead. Regular maintenance not only prolongs the life of your heating but also helps it run more efficiently, saving you money on energy bills.”
Check your radiators
First up on the checklist is giving your radiators the once-over. Crank them up and hunt for any pesky cold patches that could mean trapped air a common culprit for crummy circulation and a less-than-toasty home.
Bleeding your radiators yearly is a smart move to dodge this drama.
And while you’re at it, keep an eye out for any sneaky leaks.
It’s crucial to regularly check your boiler and the surrounding pipes for any signs of leaks. Keep an eye out for water puddles, damp patches or rust around the fittings.
If you spot any leaks, it’s vital to contact a professional to rectify the issue and prevent long-term damage.
Keep an eye on the pressure
Your boiler comes with a pressure gauge that should read between 1 and 1.5 when the system is cool. If the pressure is too low, your boiler may need topping up.
On the other hand, if the pressure goes above 1.5, you might need to bleed your radiators or seek professional advice. Regularly check your gauge and take necessary action if the pressure reading falls outside the recommended range.
Don’t switch off your boiler
While it might be tempting to turn off your heating as soon as the weather improves, most modern heating systems actually benefit from being run for a short period of time on a regular basis. If you’re planning a summer holiday, it’s fine to switch off your boiler system for a brief period, but remember to run the system a few times during the summer months to maintain boiler health.
Watch out for error codes
If there’s something wrong with your boiler, it will show this by displaying an error code. So, make sure to check if your boiler is showing any error codes.
Addressing the problem quickly can help extend the life of your boiler. Some issues can be resolved at home, while others may require professional advice – consult your boiler manual to understand the meaning of the displayed code.
Arrange for professional maintenance
Even after following the above steps, it’s crucial to have a Gas Safe registered engineer carry out a boiler service annually, as they can conduct a more thorough system check. Summer is an ideal time to schedule your boiler’s annual service, as heating engineers are usually less busy than in the winter months.
