As December approaches and temperatures drop sharply across the UK, understanding your heating system has never been more crucial. Consumer rights expert Martyn James has compiled essential guidance for homeowners facing boiler breakdowns, potentially saving hundreds of pounds on unnecessary engineer callouts.
Simple Heating Problems You Can Fix Yourself
James recounts his own experience moving into a new flat and struggling with an unresponsive thermostat. After discovering a second thermostat in a kitchen drawer and inserting batteries, the heating sprang to life – highlighting how often simple oversights lead to perceived breakdowns.
Research consistently shows thermostats remain mysterious devices for many households, with people frequently setting temperatures once and never adjusting them again. Since the energy bill crisis began, more Britons have familiarised themselves with their heating systems, yet countless still pay for emergency callouts for issues costing less than £1 to resolve.
The most common unnecessary callout involves thermostats requiring simple battery changes. Older thermostats may malfunction if batteries aren't seated properly, while modern smart thermostats might display confusing symbols when they're frozen, updating software, or malfunctioning.
Essential Boiler Maintenance Checks
Before calling an engineer, conduct basic troubleshooting. Turn dials and thermostats down, then try the 'boost' option to see if the boiler activates. Repressurising your boiler might seem daunting but is relatively straightforward for most models. Always turn the boiler off first as hot water may leak during the process.
If radiator performance diminishes, bleeding might be necessary to release trapped air. Energy companies provide online guides for this annual maintenance task. Remember to turn heating off and allow it to cool completely before beginning, keeping a bowl and towel handy for potential leakage.
Lost your boiler manual? Find it online using the boiler number (typically on the underside) or consult YouTube tutorials for basic problems. Only attempt simple procedures like repressurising or bleeding radiators – never dismantle the boiler regardless of online instructions.
Understanding Boiler and Home Emergency Cover
Emergency engineer callouts range from £225 to £675 according to Check a Trade, excluding additional repair work, while annual servicing costs £80-£120. These expenses make boiler insurance policies appear attractive, with some advertised for just a few pounds monthly.
However, James warns that initial quotes often increase significantly after entering home details. Moderately priced policies frequently include callout fees around £100 per incident, while unlimited callout coverage typically exceeds £200 annually.
Consumers should distinguish between regulated insurance contracts and service contracts, as the latter don't permit complaints to the Financial Ombudsman. Key policy considerations include 24/7 emergency helplines, initial 'no claims' periods (usually two weeks), callout limits, and caps on parts, repairs and labour.
Boilers over seven years old might not qualify for coverage, and existing home insurance customers should inquire about adding emergency cover, as insurers may offer better deals with existing property knowledge.
Before winter intensifies, experts recommend testing your heating system periodically at low thermostat settings. If travelling during Christmas, maintain minimal heating rather than switching the boiler off completely to prevent pipe damage.
