"Boiler not working" covers a lot of different problems, and the right first step depends on exactly what you're seeing. Pick the description that matches your situation below, or call us directly if you'd rather just describe it over the phone.
Boiler Not WorkingStart here if you're not sure what's wrong
Losing PressureGauge reading low, keeps dropping
Boiler LeakingWater around the boiler or pipework
No Hot WaterHeating works but taps run cold
No HeatingHot water works but radiators are cold
Error CodesWorcester, Vaillant, Baxi, Ideal, Potterton
A few quick things worth checking first
Before anything else, these three checks resolve a surprising number of "boiler not working" callouts, and they're safe for anyone to do:
- Check the pressure gauge. If it's reading below 1 bar, low pressure is very likely your answer — see our losing pressure page.
- Check your thermostat. Make sure it's calling for heat, set above room temperature, and that batteries (if it's wireless) aren't flat.
- Check your electrics. A tripped fuse or switched-off fused spur will stop a boiler dead — check your consumer unit and any isolation switch near the boiler.
If none of that explains it, don't keep experimenting — especially with anything involving the boiler's casing, gas connection, or flue. That's exactly what we're for.