What to Do If Your Boiler Stops Working
A boiler breaking down can be stressful, especially when you lose heating or hot water unexpectedly. Before calling an engineer, there are a few safe, simple checks you can make that may help identify the problem and speed up the repair. This guide explains what to look for and when to seek professional help.
Check the power supply first
If your boiler display is blank or unresponsive, the issue may be electrical. Check that:
The boiler switch is turned on
No fuses have blown
The circuit breaker has not tripped
If power is restored and the boiler restarts, monitor it closely. If it trips again, stop using it and call an engineer.
Check the boiler pressure
Most boilers operate correctly when the pressure sits between 1 and 1.5 bar. If the pressure is too low, the boiler may shut down as a safety measure. You can usually see the pressure on the boiler display or gauge. Some systems allow you to top up pressure using the filling loop. If you are unsure how to do this safely, do not attempt it and contact a Gas Safe engineer. Repeated pressure loss often indicates a leak or internal fault that needs professional attention.
Look for error codes
Modern boilers often show an error code when something goes wrong. Make a note of the code before resetting the boiler. Avoid repeatedly pressing the reset button. While a single reset can be helpful, frequent resets can mask underlying faults and potentially cause more damage.
Check your thermostat and controls
Sometimes the issue is not the boiler itself. Make sure:
The thermostat has power and working batteries
The temperature is set high enough
Timers and schedules are set correctly
Smart thermostats can lose connection or settings after power cuts.
When to call a Gas Safe engineer
You should stop troubleshooting and seek professional help if:
You smell gas
The boiler makes loud or unusual noises
There is visible water leaking from the unit
The boiler will not restart after basic checks
Gas appliances should never be opened or repaired by anyone who is not Gas Safe registered.
Local help in West London
At West Gas Service, we regularly attend boiler breakdowns across West London and aim to complete most jobs on the same day. Our engineers provide clear explanations, safe repairs, and honest advice on the best next steps. If your boiler has stopped working and you need help, getting it checked early can prevent further damage and restore heating as quickly as possible.
Need assistance? Call 07866 567112 to speak with a qualified Gas Safe engineer.
