Is your boiler autumn ready? Essential checks before the cold sets in

The recent high winds and blustery conditions have bought a noticeable chill to the air both outside and in our homes. While it might be tempting to reach for the thermostat, a little earlier than planned, and switch the heating on, there is an important question to ask yourself. Is your boiler up to the job?

Now is the ideal time to check your boiler over and make sure it's in good working order before the cold really sets in. Preparing your boiler for autumn not only helps prevent unexpected breakdowns when you need heat the most, but can also save you time, money, and energy in the long run. We’ve put together a handy list with tips to check your boiler over and ensure your house stays cosy this autumn.

Inspect your boiler for leaks

Start with a simple visual check for any signs of trouble around your boiler, pipes, and radiators. Look out for dripping water, damp patches, or visible corrosion. One of the most common warning signs of a leak is consistently low boiler pressure. Leaks can be caused by a range of problems, including faulty internal components like a damaged heat exchanger, worn seals, or corroded pipes. They may also result from issues within the wider heating system, such as high pressure or loose connections. Even new boilers can be at risk if they’ve been poorly installed, while older systems are naturally more prone to leaks due to age-related wear and tear.

If you notice any of these issues, it’s important to call a qualified heating engineer to carry out a professional inspection and repair. You should never attempt to fix boiler pipework yourself.

Check stop taps

Make sure you know where your internal stop tap is located and that you can easily turn it on and off. The stop-tap controls the mains water supply to your home and is crucial in an emergency. During the colder months, water pipes, especially those in unheated areas like garages and outside taps, are at risk of freezing. If a frozen pipe bursts, it can quickly lead to significant water damage. Being able to turn your water off quickly can help minimise the damage a burst pipe can cause.

Fixing a stiff tap can be an easy job to do yourself by applying a lubricant like WD-40 to ease movement. However, if it’s badly seized or damaged, it’s best to call a plumber to inspect or replace it. You could also consider installing pipe lagging to insulate pipes in exposed areas and help protect against them freezing. Pipe lagging is inexpensive and easy to install, offering simple protection that helps prevent burst pipes during cold snaps.

Bleed your radiators

If the blustery conditions have already tempted you to turn our heating on, but they weren’t heating properly, this could be because of air in the system. Having radiators switched off for a long time over the spring and summer can cause air pockets to build up and prevent hot water from circulating properly. This means your heating system has to work harder to warm your home, which can reduce efficiency and increase energy bills. You’ll know of your radiators need bleeding if they feel warm at the bottom but remain cold at the top.

Bleeding your radiators is a quick and simple task that releases the trapped air and helps restore full heat output. All you need is a radiator key and a cloth to catch any drips. Start with the radiator furthest from your boiler and work your way back through the system.

Checking for Strange Noises

It is perfectly normal for your boiler to make some noises like a gentle hum or soft whirring during operation. However, louder sounds like banging, clunking, gurgling, or whistling could indicate a deeper issue. These noises are often caused by air trapped in the system, a build-up of limescale, or worn internal components.

If you notice persistent or concerning noises coming from your boiler, it’s best not to ignore them. If left unchecked, they could result in long term damage or reduced efficiency of your boiler. Contact a qualified heating engineer to carry out a full inspection and any necessary repairs.

By conducting autumn boiler checks, you can catch any potential issues early on and avoid unexpected breakdowns during the peak winter months. Regular maintenance not only extends the lifespan of your boiler but also helps reduce energy bills by improving its efficiency. It is also good practice to schedule a professional boiler service at least once a year to ensure optimal performance.

If you’ve had your boiler a while and are considering replacing it, read this article from HomeServe with signs for what to look out for. HomeServe is one of the UK’s leading home assistance providers who have been working with Anglian Water for over 30 years, and whose Home Experts keeps our customers’ homes running smoothly. To find out how they could cover your home click here.

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