Avoid a boiler breakdown this winter

WaterSafe, the national register of approved plumbers, is sharing crucial advice to prevent boiler breakdowns during freezing temperatures.

This comes as research by Confused.com reveals that 15 December is the most common date for boiler breakdowns.

Freezing temperatures can cause boilers to shut down, leaving people without central heating or hot water. Condensing boilers are particularly at risk, as the pipe carrying condensed water vapour outside the property can freeze if not protected.

However, taking simple steps now, such as fitting foam insulation to the external pipe and having the boiler serviced annually by an engineer registered with WaterSafe and Gas Safe can prevent this from happening.

If the pipe has already frozen, it can be thawed by placing a hot water bottle over the pipe, starting with the end nearest the ground and working back up the pipe until the water is flowing freely. Customers should contact a WaterSafe and Gas Safe registered engineer if the pipe is difficult to access or if they need advice.

Julie Spinks, Director at WaterSafe, says: “If your boiler was installed since 2005, it’s likely to be a condensing boiler. Although they can be more efficient than other boiler types, there is a risk that the condensate pipe, which runs outside the home, can freeze when temperatures drop below five degrees Celsius.

“Having a broken boiler, and no heating or hot water, is the last thing anyone wants - especially this time of year. However, you can reduce the risk of the pipe freezing quickly and for very little money, by fitting foam insulation around the external pipe.

“You should also have your boiler serviced each year by a Gas Safe and WaterSafe-approved engineer, to help keep it running smoothly and efficiently.”

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