Boiler safety tips for your home
As we move into winter, a well-maintained boiler can keep you warm, reduce your energy bills and if you are a shared or private owner, it helps avoid costly repairs. Here are some simple tips to make sure it’s working properly.
Book your annual boiler service.
If you rent from us, the law states we must complete your annual gas service check before the due date. This allows us to:
- spot potential issues early before they become expensive repairs
- ensure the boiler is running efficiently, saving on energy costs
- confirm the boiler is safe, preventing hazards like gas leaks.
If your service is due, please contact our gas contractor, Smith & Byford, on 0800 169 7703 to arrange it.
If you own some or part of your home, you’re responsible for organising an annual gas service of your boiler. You should contact your gas contractor to book this if it’s due. Never attempt to work on a gas appliance yourself, including your boiler or gas cooker. Always seek the help of a qualified Gas Safe contractor and ensure that they carry a Gas Safe ID card when entering your home.
When turning on your boiler, consider the following:
Check your boiler pressure
Boiler pressure should be between 1 and 2 bar to run efficiently. If the pressure is too low, your boiler might not heat your home effectively. Check the pressure gauge on your boiler and top it up if needed. Please get in touch with your gas contractor or ccha for further advice if you need clarification.
Use your thermostat wisely
Keeping your thermostat at a steady, comfortable temperature can help you avoid energy spikes. Setting it to 18-21°C is usually ideal for staying warm without overspending. Turning it down by just 1°C can save up to 10% on your heating bill.
Bleed your radiators
If your radiators aren't heating up properly, they might have trapped air inside. Bleeding them will release the air and help them heat more efficiently, meaning your boiler won't have to work as hard. If you need a radiator key, get in touch as we may be able to source one for you.
Where possible, set timers for heating your home
Rather than keeping your heating on all day, use your boiler's timer to set the heating for when you're at home. This will help you save energy and lower your bills.
Freezing winter conditions
If you experience freezing conditions during the winter months and your boiler has stopped working, it may be due to a frozen condensate pipe. This can easily be resolved without the need for an engineer. You can safely thaw frozen condensate pipes by looking for an outdoor pipe connected to your boiler (usually white plastic connecting to an external drain). If it is safe to do so, pour warm (not boiling) water along the pipe. You can then reset your boiler. For more information, please visit the heating advice page.
Be aware of carbon monoxide risks
Your home has a carbon monoxide detector to protect you and prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
carbon monoxide is a colourless, odourless gas that can be released by your boiler and can be fatal. Signs of carbon monoxide include:
- yellow or orange pilot light on your gas hob or oven (instead of blue)
- sooty or black marks around the boiler
- excessive condensation in the room around the boiler.
Know the symptoms of CO poisoning such as:
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Breathlessness
- Collapse
- Dizziness
- Loss of consciousness
Do not block flues or vents. These need to be open and allow a free flow of air for your gas appliance boilers to work effectively and safely.
If your carbon monoxide alarm goes off or you smell gas or think there might be a gas leak, please call the free 24-hour national gas emergency number immediately on 0800 111 999.
If you have any concerns about your gas boiler or heating, please contact Smith and Byford on 0800 169 7703.