Boiler stopped, house is getting cold, kids are asking why the radiators aren't warm. Don't panic. Here's the sequence I'd run through if it were my own home.
Step 1: Check the basics (2 minutes)
- Is the boiler displaying an error code? Note it down
- Is the thermostat calling for heat? Turn it up 5°C and listen for the boiler firing
- Is the pressure gauge between 1 and 1.5 bar?
- Is the gas supply on at the meter?
- Are other gas appliances (cooker, fire) working?
Step 2: Try the resets (5 minutes)
Most modern boilers have a reset button. Hold it for 3 seconds, wait 30 seconds, and see if the boiler fires up. If the same fault returns within minutes, don't keep resetting: there's an underlying problem that needs fixing.
Step 3: Top up the pressure (if needed)
If pressure is below 1 bar, find the filling loop (usually a silver braided hose under the boiler) and slowly open the valves until pressure reaches 1.2 bar. Close immediately. If pressure keeps dropping back, you have a leak somewhere: call me.
If you smell gas, do NOT try to relight or reset. Leave the property, call the National Gas Emergency line on 0800 111 999, and only call me once they've made the supply safe.
Step 4: Stay warm while you wait
- Close internal doors to keep warmth in
- Layer up: thermal base layer, jumper, blanket
- Use an electric fan heater or oil-filled radiator in one room
- If you have a working hot water cylinder, run a hot bath for warmth (and to use the heat before it's lost)
- Avoid paraffin or unflued gas heaters: CO risk
Step 5: Call me
Phone 07903 815901. Tell me the boiler make, the error code, what you've tried, and your postcode. I'll give you a realistic ETA before I leave.