Central heating stopped working? Before you call an engineer, work through these common checks — you might solve it yourself and save a call-out fee.
1. Check the thermostat
Make sure the thermostat is set above room temperature and in "heating" mode. If it's a smart thermostat, check the app — the schedule may have changed. Also check the batteries if it's a wireless thermostat.
2. Check the boiler display
Most modern boilers show a fault code on the display when they lock out. Write down the code and look it up in your boiler manual (or Google "[brand] error code [number]"). Common codes like F1 (low pressure) or E119 (Worcester Bosch pressure fault) have simple fixes.
3. Check the boiler pressure
Look at the pressure gauge on the boiler — it should read 1.0–1.5 bar when cold. If it's below 0.8 bar, the boiler may have locked out. Repressurise using the filling loop and press the reset button.
4. Reset the boiler
Most modern boilers have a reset button (often marked with a flame icon or a circular arrow). Hold it for 3 seconds. If the boiler fires up and then locks out again within a few minutes, there's an underlying fault that needs an engineer.
5. Check the gas supply
Check that your gas supply is working by turning on a gas hob burner. If there's no gas at all, contact your gas supplier. If gas is flowing normally, the issue is with the boiler itself.
When to call an engineer
If none of the above resolves it, or if you smell gas, call us on 01536 000 000. Never attempt to work on the boiler yourself — always use a Gas Safe registered engineer.