Boiler repair
At Axion Heat, we understand the importance of a fully functional boiler for your home comfort. Our comprehensive repair services cover all of London and we are experts in all types of boilers, ensuring your heating system operates at peak efficiency. Whether you’re facing an emergency or need routine maintenance, our expert technicians are here to help.
Common boiler issues
Boilers can experience a range of problems, regardless of their type. Being aware of these common issues can help you identify when it’s time to call for professional help:
- No heat or hot water: Often caused by thermostat issues, low water pressure, or airlock in the system.
- Leaks and drips: Can indicate a variety of problems, from minor seal issues to more serious internal component failures.
- Strange noises: Banging, whistling, or gurgling sounds may suggest air in the system, pump problems, or limescale build-up.
- Pilot light issues: A pilot light that keeps going out could indicate a faulty thermocouple or gas supply problems.
- Pressure loss: Low pressure can cause your boiler to shut down as a safety measure.
- Frozen condensate pipe: In cold weather, this can cause your boiler to stop working.
Understanding these common problems can help you communicate more effectively with our technicians and potentially avoid minor issues escalating into major repairs.
DIY Troubleshooting Steps
Before calling for professional help, there are some safe checks you can perform:
- Check your thermostat: Ensure it’s set correctly and the batteries aren’t dead.
- Inspect the pressure gauge: The ideal pressure should be between 1 and 1.5 bar. If it’s too low, you may be able to repressurise the system yourself (consult your boiler manual).
- Look for visible leaks: Check around the boiler and radiators for any signs of water.
- Bleed your radiators: If they’re cold at the top, air might be trapped in the system.
- Check the pilot light: If it’s out, you may be able to relight it following the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Ensure the gas, electricity, and water supplies are on: Sometimes, the simplest solutions are the most effective.
Remember, while these steps can often resolve minor issues, it’s crucial to know your limits. If you’re unsure about any aspect of your boiler’s operation, it’s always safer to call a professional.
Our boiler services
Combination (combi) boilers are popular for their efficiency and space-saving design. However, they can face unique issues:
- Loss of hot water: Often caused by diaphragm or valve problems within the boiler.
- Fluctuating water temperature: May indicate issues with the flow sensor or heat exchanger.
- Low water pressure: Could be due to a leak in the system or problems with the expansion vessel.
- Frozen condensate pipe: Common in cold weather, causing the boiler to shut down.
Our technicians are experts in diagnosing and repairing these combi-specific issues. We’ll quickly identify the problem and provide efficient solutions to get your hot water and heating back on track.
For combi boilers, we also focus on maintaining the instant hot water delivery system and ensuring optimal pressure for multi-outlet use. Regular maintenance can prevent many common combi boiler issues and extend the life of your system.
System boilers, with their separate hot water cylinders, present a different set of challenges:
- Cylinder issues: Problems with the hot water storage cylinder can affect your entire heating system.
- Pump failures: The circulation pump is crucial for system boilers and may need repair or replacement.
- Pressure problems: Issues with the expansion vessel can lead to pressure fluctuations.
- Control valve malfunctions: These can affect the distribution of heat and hot water throughout your home.
Our repair process for system boilers includes a thorough check of all components, including the cylinder, pump, and built-in valves. We ensure that your system is operating efficiently and that hot water is being stored and distributed correctly.
We also specialize in repairing and optimizing systems integrated with solar thermal setups, ensuring you get the most out of your energy-efficient installation.
Conventional boilers, also known as regular or heat-only boilers, have been a staple in many homes for years. Common repair issues include:
- Problems with the cold water tank: Leaks or contamination in the tank can affect the entire system.
- Feed and expansion tank issues: These can lead to pressure problems throughout the heating system.
- Pilot light failures: A common issue in older conventional boilers.
- Thermostatic control problems: Can result in inconsistent heating or hot water temperatures.
Our repair service for conventional boilers includes a comprehensive check of all system components, including tanks, pipework, and controls. We’re experienced in working with older systems and can often find ways to improve efficiency and performance during the repair process.
For properties with gravity-fed systems, we can also address low water pressure issues and suggest solutions to improve overall system performance.
Electric boilers, while generally simpler in design, can still encounter problems:
- Heating element failures: The most common issue, often resulting in no heat production.
- Thermostat malfunctions: Can lead to inconsistent temperatures or the boiler not turning on/off correctly.
- Control panel issues: Electronic faults can cause the boiler to stop functioning entirely.
- Integration problems with renewable systems: For homes using solar PV or other renewable sources.
Our technicians are skilled in diagnosing electrical faults and can quickly identify whether the issue lies with the boiler itself or your property’s electrical supply. We ensure all repairs meet the latest electrical safety standards.
For homes using electric boilers as part of an eco-friendly setup, we can also optimize the integration with renewable energy systems to maximize efficiency and cost savings.
Boiler breakdowns don’t always happen at convenient times. That’s why Axion Heat offers 24/7 emergency repair services. But what constitutes a boiler emergency?
- No heat or hot water in extreme weather conditions
- Gas leaks or suspicion of a gas leak
- Water leaks that risk property damage
- Strange odors coming from your boiler
- Unusual noises or vibrations from the boiler
In these situations, don’t hesitate to call our emergency line. Our technicians are ready to respond quickly, ensuring your safety and comfort.
Maintenance to Prevent Repairs
Regular maintenance is key to avoiding unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs:
- Annual servicing: We recommend yearly check-ups for all boiler types.
- Bleeding radiators: Regularly removing air from the system improves efficiency.
- Checking pressure: Maintaining the correct pressure prevents strain on your boiler.
- Insulating pipes: Proper insulation prevents freezing and improves efficiency.
- Clearing space around the boiler: Ensures proper ventilation and easy access for maintenance.
By following these steps and scheduling regular professional maintenance, you can significantly extend your boiler’s lifespan and reduce the likelihood of emergency repairs.
Repair vs. Replace Decision Guide
Sometimes, the question arises whether it’s more cost-effective to repair or replace your boiler. Consider the following factors:
- Age of the boiler: If it’s over 10-15 years old, replacement might be more economical.
- Frequency of repairs: Frequent breakdowns may indicate it’s time for a new boiler.
- Efficiency: Older boilers are often less efficient, leading to higher energy bills.
- Cost of repair vs. new installation: If a repair costs more than 50% of a new boiler, replacement is often advisable.
- Changes in your household needs: Your current boiler may no longer be suitable for your family’s requirements.
Our technicians can provide an honest assessment of your boiler’s condition and help you make an informed decision about repair or replacement.
Boiler brands we repair
At Axion Heat, we specialize in repairing a wide range of boiler brands, ensuring we can service most systems in homes across our service area. Our technicians are trained and experienced in working with the following top boiler manufacturers:
Boiler repair process
When you call Axion Heat for a repair, here’s what you can expect:
- Initial assessment: We’ll ask about the symptoms you’re experiencing to prepare for the visit.
- On-site diagnosis: Our technician will perform a thorough examination of your boiler and heating system.
- Explanation and quote: We’ll explain the issue and provide a clear quote for the necessary repairs.
- Repair work: Upon your approval, we’ll carry out the repairs efficiently and professionally.
- Testing: We’ll test the boiler to ensure everything is working correctly.
- Advice: We’ll provide tips on maintaining your boiler and preventing future issues.
Our goal is to make the repair process as smooth and transparent as possible, ensuring you’re informed and comfortable at every step.
Safety Considerations
Boiler safety is paramount, especially when it comes to gas boilers:
- Gas safety checks: Always use a Gas Safe registered engineer for any gas boiler work.
- Carbon monoxide awareness: Ensure you have working carbon monoxide detectors installed.
- Regular inspections: Annual safety checks can identify potential hazards before they become dangerous.
- Ventilation: Ensure your boiler has adequate ventilation as per manufacturer guidelines.
- Emergency procedures: Know how to turn off your gas supply in case of a suspected leak.
At Axion Heat, all our technicians are fully qualified and prioritize safety in every repair job. We’re committed to keeping your home safe and warm.