Nightmare Boiler Breakdowns

Freezing temperatures and generally harsh weather across the UK have caused many gas boilers to breakdown and heating systems to buckle under the pressure of greater demand. This coincidentally comes at a time when some of the largest energy suppliers have decided to raise prices. Ensuring your boiler and heating system is properly maintained without it costing the earth has become a very important issue at the moment.

Gas Boiler Servicing
Gas boilers have a tendency to breakdown when you need them most so it can really pay to pre-empt disaster by getting your boiler checked annually just before the cold weather sets in.

Your boiler should be serviced by a registered Gas Safe technician or if you have an oil burning boiler you should contact Oftec to find a local engineer. Hopefully by having your boiler regularly checked you will avoid nasty surprises and keep it in good working order for longer. If you cannot afford annual boiler checks you can contact the Energy Saving Trust to see if you are eligible for free servicing.
But what if you are not sure if your boiler needs a service, well there are a few things to look out for. You may have recently noticed that not as much hot water is available or your home is not as warm as it used to be. If the problem occurs over a few days or worsens it may be time for a service.

Why Should I Get My Boiler Serviced?
Carbon monoxide is a killer gas which is both odourless and colourless. It kills many people in the UK every year, but many of these deaths could have been avoided if the proper precautions were taken. Poisoning can occur if a gas appliance such as a boiler has been installed or serviced incorrectly or by someone who is not properly qualified. Another common problem is poor ventilation. If a flue or chimney becomes blocked the gas has nowhere to go and naturally leaks into the home.

Symptoms to look out for include tiredness, headaches, nausea and chest pains. However these signs can be caused from other illnesses as well, but if you experience any of these symptoms while your boiler is on or whilst using a gas appliance you should seek medical attention.

Other indicators include brownish-yellow stains around gas appliances or heavy condensation in the room where the appliance is installed, these signs can suggest the presence of carbon monoxide. Many deaths could have been prevented with a carbon monoxide alarm they are easy to install and cost as little as £25.

How Do You Avoid Expensive Boiler Repair Costs?
One of the best ways to avoid costly gas boiler repairs is to take out breakdown cover. It acts as an insurance policy and can include your heating system, controls, boiler, plumbing and even electrics. Most energy suppliers offer cover, one of the most popular products is British Gas Homecare, which services most of the UK and includes annual boiler servicing and emergency call outs.

However, no matter who you use you should check the small print and make sure it provides everything you need. When taking out cover there are a few things which you need to look out for.

• How many call outs are included in your package?
• Is there a limit on how much you can claim?
• Do you have to pay an excess?
• Are parts and labour included?
• Does the cover include 24 hour all year round assistance?

With higher energy prices and a bitterly cold winter hiking up usage and demand it can be tempting to ignore your boiler and heating system. But by taking out cover which can cost only £10 per month and getting your boiler serviced annually you can save yourself a lot of trouble and the expense of buying a new boilers.