Before you Call ~ Frequently Asked Questions
We get a high number of call outs due to simple problems with central heating systems that can often be solved by the home owner, we hope this page will be of assistance.
Always refer to the user's section of the manufacturer's manual, there will be information to guide you through any simple checks you can carry out before you call for professional help. If you do not have a user's guide or manufacturer's instructions, please follow these simple steps carefully. We cannot accept responsibility for problems caused by not following these guidelines accurately.
Q.I can smell gas, what should I do?
A.Contact National Grid Transco immediately on 0800 111 999. If you require further assistance after their visit, contact us.
Q. The boiler is completely dead with no lights on, do I need a new one?
A.Firstly, check the electrical supply to the boiler, there should be a 'Power' neon light on most boilers. If there is no power light illuminated, check your main fuse board to see if any circuits have tripped. If they haven't, replace the 3 amp fuse in the fuse spur or plug supplying the boiler or central heating system. If the fuse continually blows, call us for professional assistance.
Q. Why has my boiler got some lights on but isn't heating the water?
A. 1) Check to make sure there is gas present in your property i.e. at the cooker or hob. If you have a pre-payment meter check to make sure all is correct.
2) Check boiler and system pressure, this should read between 1-1½ Bar when the heating is off. If the pressure is below ½ Bar, top up to 1-1½ Bar. Do not allow pressure to exceed 1½ Bar or this will cause further problems. If you are unsure how to carry out this procedure then call us for further guidance. Please note, not all boiler/systems are pressurised, some have a tank located in the attic.
3) Check boiler for over-heat resets or reset button. Most modern boilers have the facility to allow you to reset them. Reset buttons are normally located on the front fascia panel beneath the boiler or on top of the boiler. Do not attempt to open the boiler casing. If you cannot easily find an over-heat reset button, call for our professional help.
Q.Why do my radiators only get hot along the bottom?
A. The most likely cause is air in the radiator. They can be bled using a radiator key which can be purchased from your local DIY store. Turn off the boiler and system before bleeding any radiators. Have a rag to hand to prevent drips. If bleeding a radiator for the first time, take extra care, the water may be very hot. Locate the key into the orifice at the top left or right of the radiator, the key should fit perfectly. If the bleed point is on the right, turn clockwise to open, if on the left, turn anti-clockwise. Always turn the key slowly. You should hear the hissing of air escaping followed by water. This make take some time on a big radiator. If there is no air or water present, on pressurised systems, check the system pressure as per previous instructions. Pressurised systems should always be topped up after bleeding radiators.
Q.Why have I got hot water but no heating from my Combi boiler?
A. Check the programmer or timer have the correct settings, if they do, check the room thermostats for correct setting. If you have a wireless programmer or room thermostat, there should be an override button on the receiver unit which will allow the heating to work without temperature control, you can then call us for further guidance.
Q.I have a Combi boiler, why is my hot water cooler during winter months and what can I do about it?
A. Combination boilers heat up cold water from the mains supply, temperature fluctuations occur when the outside temperature drops. To counteract this, turn up the hot water stat in the boiler or reduce hot water flow at the tap to increase water temperature. Any other symptoms may require a visit to resolve the problem.
If none of the above suggestions solve your problem phone Axiom on 020 8520 1525 or use our contact form and we will solve it for you.