Boiler Not Firing Up? Here's What to Check First

When your boiler refuses to fire up, it can be frustrating and worrying, especially during colder months when you rely on it most. Before calling out a professional, there are several simple checks you can carry out yourself that might help identify the cause. Understanding these common issues can save time and ensure your home stays warm and comfortable.

What To Do When Your Boiler Won’t Start

It’s not uncommon for boilers to stop working suddenly, but the underlying issue is often minor and easy to resolve. Knowing what to look for can help you decide whether you need professional assistance.

Check Your Power Supply

The first step is to make sure your boiler has power. Check that the main switch is turned on and that the fuse in your electrical consumer unit hasn’t tripped. A quick reset may be all it takes to get your system running again.

Inspect the Thermostat Settings

Sometimes, the problem lies with incorrect thermostat settings. Ensure your thermostat is set to the correct temperature and time. Low battery levels in wireless thermostats can also cause communication problems with the boiler.

Examine Boiler Pressure

Most modern boilers require water pressure to be between 1 and 2 bars. If it’s below this range, your boiler may not ignite. You can usually top it up using the filling loop, but if pressure loss happens frequently, it could indicate a leak or another issue that needs professional repair.

Look for Error Codes

Many modern boilers display fault codes when something goes wrong. Check your user manual or the manufacturer’s website to identify what the code means. This can help you understand whether the fault is something simple or requires a qualified engineer to fix.

Bleed Your Radiators

Trapped air in your heating system can prevent hot water from circulating properly. If some of your radiators are cold at the top, bleeding them could restore efficiency and help the boiler ignite correctly.

When to Call a Professional Heating Engineer

If you’ve checked all the above and your boiler still won’t fire up, it’s time to contact an expert. Persistent problems can stem from faulty components such as the ignition system, gas valve, or PCB (printed circuit board). These should always be handled by qualified Gas Safe registered engineers. Attempting to fix these parts yourself can be dangerous and may void your warranty.

Regular servicing is another way to prevent your boiler from breaking down unexpectedly. During a maintenance visit, an engineer will check key components, clean internal parts, and ensure your system is running efficiently and safely.

Need Help with Boiler Repairs or Maintenance in Chesterfield?

If your boiler isn’t firing up or you’re experiencing frequent breakdowns, M Spencer Plumbing and Heating is here to help. Our experienced heating engineers in Chesterfield specialise in boiler repairs and boiler maintenance, ensuring your system runs reliably all year round.
Call us today to book your appointment or fill out our contact form to arrange a visit from one of our friendly engineers.