Ahead of winter, plumbing experts release important warning to anyone who has a boiler that was fitted after 2005
Experts have shared crucial advice to help prevent boiler breakdowns in cold weather. WaterSafe, the national register of approved plumbers, is sharing how you can ensure that your boiler continues to function throughout the winter months. The warning comes as research by Confused.com reveals that December 15 is the most common date for boiler breakdowns.
Boiler problems are more common in the winter months because cooler temperatures – particularly freezing temperatures – can make it more likely that your boiler will shut down. According to the experts, freezing temperatures can cause boilers to shut down, leaving people without central heating or hot water.
They explain that condensing boilers tend to be more at risk – this is because the pipe that carries the condensed water vapour outside your home can end up freezing if it’s not adequately protected. But the good news is that taking precautionary steps now, like adding foam insulation to the external pipe and making sure that your boiler is serviced annually by an engineer, who is on the Gas Safe register and is also registered with WaterSafe, can help to stop winter issues.
If you notice that your pipe has already frozen, the experts say that it can be thawed by putting a hot water bottle over the pipe. They recommend that the best way to do this is to start at the end nearest the ground, and then work your way back up the pipe, until you can see the water flowing freely.
Julie Spinks, Director at WaterSafe, said: “If your boiler was installed since 2005, it’s likely to be a condensing boiler. Although they can be more efficient than other boiler types, there is a risk that the condensate pipe, which runs outside the home, can freeze when temperatures drop below five degrees Celsius.
“Having a broken boiler, and no heating or hot water, is the last thing anyone wants – especially this time of year. However, you can reduce the risk of the pipe freezing quickly and for very little money, by fitting foam insulation around the external pipe.
“You should also have your boiler serviced each year by a Gas Safe and WaterSafe-approved engineer, to help keep it running smoothly and efficiently. Visit our YouTube channel for more winter plumbing tips.”
