Heating System Issues: Simple Fixes You Can Try Today

Feeling a chill in the house? It could be a small problem that’s easy to sort out, or a sign you need a professional. Below we break down the most common heating hiccups, give you clear DIY steps, and tell you when it’s smarter to pick up the phone.

Spotting the Most Common Problems

First, figure out what’s really going on. Is the boiler making strange noises? Does the water heater keep resetting? Is the heat pump not kicking on at all? Write down any odd sounds, error codes, or times the problem shows up. That snapshot helps you choose the right fix and saves time if you end up calling a technician.

Boiler won’t fire up – often caused by low pressure, a blocked gas valve, or a faulty ignition electrode. Check the pressure gauge; it should sit between 1 and 1.5 bar when the system is cold. If it’s low, top it up using the filler loop and bleed any air from the radiators.

Heat pump runs but no heat reaches rooms – the outdoor unit might be iced over or the indoor fan could be stuck. Turn the fan off for a few minutes, clear any ice with a soft brush, and restart. If the problem persists, the refrigerant level may be low, which needs a pro.

Water heater keeps resetting – the thermostat could be misreading the water temperature, or a build‑up of sediment is overheating the element. Drain the tank, flush out sediment, and replace the thermostat if it’s still acting up.

DIY Steps That Usually Work

Now that you know the symptom, try these quick fixes. Always turn off power and gas before messing with anything.

• Bleed radiators: Use a radiator key, open the valve slightly, and listen for a hissing sound. When water starts to flow steadily, close the valve.
• Reset the boiler: Locate the reset button (often a small red or black button), press it, and wait a minute. If the boiler fires up, great – keep an eye on it for the next few days.
• Clean the heat pump filter: Remove the front cover, pull out the filter, rinse with water, and let it dry before reinstalling.
• Check furnace fan belts: Look for cracks or slack. A tight, intact belt keeps the blower moving air efficiently.
• Inspect thermostat wiring: Loose wires cause erratic heating. Tighten any connectors and make sure the battery (if any) is fresh.

If any of these steps don’t bring the heat back, or you notice gas smells, leaks, or flashing error lights, stop and call a certified heating engineer. Safety first.

Remember, regular maintenance beats emergency repairs. Schedule a yearly check‑up, keep filters clean, and top up boiler pressure before winter hits. A little upkeep now keeps your home cozy and your wallet happy.

Got a stubborn heating issue that still won’t budge? Reach out to Glastonbury Appliance Repair Services. Our experienced technicians know boilers, heat pumps, and water heaters inside out. We’ll diagnose, fix, and get your home back to a comfortable temperature fast.