How to look after your boiler in cold weather

Find out how to keep your boiler well maintained and working in freezing conditions.

Many of you may have experienced boiler failure during the cold winter months. Fortunately, it doesn't always mean costly repairs or replacement. It can sometimes be something simple. We have shared some tips that could rectify some simple problems. There are also steps you can take all year round to help prevent winter boiler problems.

Things to try if your boiler breaks down in winter

A few common issues you may be able to resolve yourself.

• Frozen condensate pipe - If your boiler is making a gurgling sound and shuts down, you may be able to resolve the problem by thawing the frozen pipe using warm water (not boiling). If this doesn't work or you are unsure on what to do, contact Roman Boilers and we can send an engineer to assist.

• Low boiler pressure - If your boiler is indicating that the pressure is low, you can increase your boiler's pressure yourself if you know what sort of filling system you have, eg. an internal loop or external loop. Your boiler's manual should tell you what type you have and how to top up the boiler. Alternatively, calling the manufacturer is also an option and they may be able to talk you through it.

• Problem with thermostat - Sometimes we get called out for things that are simple but easy to miss. Try checking if the settings on your boiler or thermostat have changed and that's why your heating isn't coming on. Sometimes it can even be that the thermostat's batteries simply need replacing or the mains switch to the boiler has been accidentally knocked to 'off'!

Tips to help prevent boiler breakdowns in the colder months

Sometimes boiler breakdowns are unavoidable, but there are a few things you can do to try and prevent them.

• Have a routine annual boiler service - having your boiler serviced annually should flag up any potential issues before they become a problem. It also ensures your manufacturers guarantee remains valid (if your boiler is still in warranty). Here at Roman Boilers, we offer monthly boiler service plans which not only spreads the cost of your service, but also ensures you are reminded and booked in every year - just in case it slips your mind. You can sign up for our plans here.

• Keep an eye on your boiler pressure - your boiler pressure should be 1.5 as standard. Routinely check this. If it's too high you may be able to release some pressure by bleeding radiators. If it's too loo low, you may start to have problems or error messages appear, this is when you should call Roman Boilers to assist.

• Don't ignore anything out of the ordinary - in between your annual boiler services you should keep an eye on your boiler, assessing it for any unusal changes that could indicate a problem. Such as dropping pressure, water leaks, stains on surrounding walls or unusual noises. Flagging these immediately could save your boiler. Here at Roman Boilers, we offer monthly boiler repair plans too. You can see what's included and sign up for our plans here.

• Balance the heating system & routinely bleeding radiators - if you feel confident to bleed your radiators this can help keep an evenly warm heating system throughout your home and remove any cold spots or air in the system. If you don't feel this is something you'd like to try, simply call Roman Boilers and we can assist you.

• Ensure you have a carbon monoxide alarm and are aware of the signs that could indicate a gas leak - by law, a carbon monoxide alarm should be fitted near your boiler. If you don't have one, please go out and buy one as soon as possible. Carbon monoxide is odourless but a few indications could be a dark stain near the boiler, condensation on windows, or an orange flame in the pilot light.