Prepare your boiler this lockdown

As we’re about to enter another national lockdown in the UK, it's probably a good idea to start double checking our homes are comfortable and warm enough to get us through it. The last thing we need are any boiler mishaps that we could’ve easily avoided. 

We’re all spending much more time in our homes which makes our boilers more valuable than ever. With that in mind, here are some effective ways you can prepare your home and your boiler for the lockdown. Oh and it’s almost winter as well, but one thing at a time.

Radiator signs. 

Your radiators are like the canary down the coalmine when it comes to checking how your boiler is operating. They can provide you with some clear signs as to how your boiler is operating. It’s a good idea to regularly check your radiators for any cold spots - It doesn’t take long. Just give them a quick touch whenever you seem to walk past one.

If you do notice any cold spots or maybe they’re failing to heat up even when your central heating is on, it could mean there are some blockages in your system. Have a feel around any other radiators in your home, if they’re cold as well then you may have air in your system which means they might need bleeding. 

As well as being tactile with your radiators, make sure you keep an ear out for any unusual sounds, such as a gurgling sound. This is also a symptom of trapped air in your central heating system so be vigilant. 

BOXT, at your service.

Getting your annual service done is a great way to check what state your boiler is in. Not only does it keep your warranty valid, but also makes sure your boiler is working as it should so you don’t get any surprises further down the line. Think of it as an MOT for your boiler. 

If you’d like an annual service with BOXT then we’re more than happy to do that for you. All you need to do is sign up for our boiler service plan.

From just £8.99 per month, when you sign up to the BOXT service plan you receive your annual service and a Gas Safe certificate. Then, when we think you're due an annual service, we’ll contact you one month before the anniversary of your installation to arrange a time and date that’s best for you.

Research new boilers. 

A top boiler can last anywhere between 10 and 15 years sometimes, but in those years there can be big technological advancements in the world of boilers. Newer boilers tend to be much more efficient than older models. The more efficient the boiler, the more money you can save on your energy bills. 

How’s your boiler pressure? 

It might be slightly obvious, but good boiler pressure means a healthy boiler. But what should your boiler pressure be? Well, between 1.0 and 1.5 bars is the sweet spot. Around 2 bars is a  perfectly normal pressure level when your boiler is active or heating up.

If your pressure is anywhere 0.5 bar (you can tell because it’s in the red zone) it means water has been lost and there could be a leak somewhere. But don’t worry, sometimes it may just need a top up. It’s super easy to top up your pressure and only takes a second.