Cold-weather checklist
Prepare your heating.
Before winter asks more of it.
A few calm checks before cold weather can make the heating easier to manage and give you time to deal with a problem before it becomes urgent.
Before the weather turns
- Run the heating briefly and check that the boiler, controls and radiators respond normally.
- Make sure the programmer shows the correct time and that everyone knows how to make a simple adjustment.
- Find the boiler make and model, keep its instructions available and note any displayed fault code before calling.
- Know where the internal water stop tap is and make sure it can be reached safely.
- Visually check accessible outside pipework for damage or poor insulation; do not climb or remove boiler panels.
If rooms are not warming evenly
A radiator that is cold at the top may contain trapped air. A radiator that is cold at the bottom, cold all over or repeatedly needs bleeding may point to a different system issue.
Check that radiator valves are open and that furniture or curtains are not blocking heat before assuming the boiler is at fault.
If the boiler stops in freezing weather
Write down the fault code and check the manufacturer’s instructions. A frozen external condensate pipe is one possible cause, but it is not the only reason a boiler may stop.
Only attempt the simple, ground-level checks described in the manufacturer’s guidance. If the pipe is inaccessible, the fault returns or you are unsure, call a qualified engineer.
Plan servicing rather than waiting for a breakdown
Arrange routine servicing in line with the appliance manufacturer’s instructions and any guarantee conditions. A service does not guarantee that a boiler will never fail, but it provides a planned opportunity to check its condition and safe operation.
