As the evenings draw in and autumn falls around us, it won’t be long until we consider switching our heating back on, helping us to cosy up on these cooler nights. With temperatures already dipping below 10 degrees, many are already considering ‘The Big Switch On’ – and no, we don’t mean Christmas lights! We are talking about your boilers, be these domestic or commercial, turning them back on after several months of no activity can potentially cause a world of problems. In fact, October and November are our two busiest months for boiler call outs with boiler breakdowns and combi boiler problems increasing by a whopping 64% between September and November.
It may seem a little strange to think about there being issues with an appliance you have not used for a while, but after several months of inactivity this is when we receive numerous calls about common boiler problems.
There may be air in your radiators or you might find that your boiler just doesn’t want to play ball! From controls not working, to low heating system pressure, there is a lot that can go wrong when you first switch the heating on. You may even find that because you have not used your heating appliance for a while it has left you a little unsure how to operate it again.
With this in mind, we have put together some handy things you can do which should prevent any heating woes when you go to switch your heating on, ensuring you stay warm, dry and comfortable.
It can often be these little things that cause problems which is why we always advise our customers and Blue Flame Members to take a few simple steps before they turn their boiler on again;
Slow and Steady
One of our suggestions is to opt for a gradual heating switch on, testing the system regularly through the summer months before the colder, damper weather sets in. Keeping the boiler components operating and stopping them from seizing up!- Clear your pipes!
It is quite common for air to become stuck in radiators which will prevent your heating from working effectively. We recommend bleeding all your radiators whilst ensuring the system pressure is correct before deciding to turn your boiler back on. - Servicing
Have you had your annual boiler service this year? If not, now is the time to book one in and let the experts do the pre-checking for you, leaving your heating switch on hassle and stress free. - Avoid User Error
Take some time to refamiliarize yourself with your boiler and heating system controls. Ensure any timers are set correctly, room thermostats are turned up and that batteries in any heating controls haven’t become flat.
Slow and Steady
Clear your pipes!
Servicing
Avoid User Error
These may sound simple but many of us do not take action, choosing to wait and hope everything works at the moment they need it to – normally when it’s already cold. For our Blue Flame members, this may not be such an issue as we are able to attend their emergency call outs quickly as part of their membership with us.
If you are not a member, we can still assist with any breakdowns you have however this may not be immediately as our emergency capacity is reserved exclusively for those who have opted into our membership scheme. If you would like to learn more about our membership options, please visit our website.
You can also find out more about our emergency repairs here >