When the temperature drops and your heating won’t come on, it’s easy to worry that something serious has gone wrong. But before you pick up the phone or assume the worst, there are a few simple checks you can make at home. Often, the issue is something small and easy to fix.
Here’s our step-by-step checklist to help you troubleshoot:
1. Check the Basics
- Is the power on? If you have a gas boiler, make sure your electricity hasn’t tripped at the fuse box.
- Heating controls: Double-check that your thermostat is turned up high enough and your programmer is set to “heating” (not just hot water).
- Battery-powered thermostats: Some thermostats run on batteries. If the screen is blank, try swapping them out.
2. Check the Boiler
- Pilot light or display: Is the display showing an error code or has the pilot light gone out? Many modern boilers will reset if you press the reset button (check your boiler manual for instructions).
- Pressure gauge: On most combi boilers, the pressure should be around 1–2 bar. If it’s lower, you may need to top it up using the filling loop (again, check the instructions for your specific boiler).
- Frozen condensate pipe: In very cold weather, the small white pipe running outside from your boiler can freeze. If it has, gently thaw it with warm (not boiling) water.
3. Check Radiators and System Settings
- Radiator valves: Make sure they’re turned on and not stuck closed.
- Air in the system: If some radiators are cold at the top but warm at the bottom, they may need bleeding with a radiator key.
- Central heating timer: If the clocks have changed, your timer may need updating.
4. Consider Your Fuel Supply
- Gas: If you’re on a prepayment meter, is there enough credit?
- Oil or LPG: Check your tank levels – sometimes the solution is simply a top-up.
5. Still Not Working?
If you’ve tried all the above and your heating still won’t turn on, it might be time to call a professional. Look for a Gas Safe registered engineer for gas systems or an OFTEC technician for oil boilers.
Final Tip
Don’t wait for winter to test your heating! Switching it on every few months in the warmer months can help you spot small issues before they become big problems.
❓Need more advice?
If you’re still struggling or want guidance on the best next steps, you can call the Greener Homes in Lancashire team. Our friendly advisors can:
- Talk you through your heating issues
- Help you find trusted installers or engineers
- Check if you could access funding or grants to repair or upgrade your heating system
- Offer free, impartial support to help you stay warm while saving energy and money
