Snow is expected to fall across parts of the UK today after Storm Caroline blasted through the country this week.
With a yellow severe weather warning place, and freezing temperatures sure to follow in the coming weeks, now is the time to check your boiler is fully functioning.
If your boiler starts to leak water or makes a loud banging noise this could be a sign of a serious problem.
While your boiler might be working properly now with these issues, it is likely it could break down in the immediate future and could pose a serious safety risk to you and others.
Is your boiler making a noise?
According to 24/7 Home Rescue there are several noises you need to look out for which indicate there is a problem with your boiler.
Clunking and banging
According to the boiler, appliance and home emergency cover specialists, these are known as ’settling’ noises and are caused when limescale accumulates on the heat exchanger. This blocks the flow of water and causes some water to boil, steam and expand, as seen in a kettle.
This can reduce the efficiency of your boiler and cause damage in the long-term.
Whistling noises
These can also be caused by settling but could be due to trapped air within the system, loss of water pressure or a blockage.
Gurgling
Such noises can also be caused by air in the system, a blockage or sediment at the bottom of the boiler, but a frozen condensate pipe may also be to blame.
If a frozen pipe is the cause it will need to be thawed. This can be done yourself if you know how using hot water bottles and heat wraps – but only if the pipe is accessible at ground level.
If you experience any problems with your boiler is best to call an expert so you can rest assured that problems will be fixed by those with the necessary expertise.
Boiler breakdowns are not only inconvenient but pricey too, but there are a number of things homeowners can to do look after this boiler.
Preventing issues in advance can save hundreds of pounds, and Priory Gas Heating has a host of tips on what homeowners should be doing with their boilers as the temperature drops around the UK.
So what should homeowners do in the coming weeks to look after their boilers?