Home Heating Tips & Repair Guides

When the chill sets in, you need your heating working without a hitch. From boilers that hum to water heaters that sputter, a few simple checks can save you time, money, and a cold shower. Below are the most useful tricks we use every day at Bridgewater Appliance Fixers.

Keep Your Boiler Running Smoothly

First thing to do each season is to give your boiler a quick visual once‑over. Look for obvious signs – rusty pipes, loose connections, or water leaking around the pressure valve. If the pressure gauge sits below 1 bar, add water using the filling loop until it reads 1.2 bar. That tiny adjustment often stops the boiler from shutting off during a hot‑water call.

Next, listen. A noisy pump or a rattling heat exchanger usually means something is clogged or worn. Turn the power off, drain a few litres, and clean the inlet filter – it’s the little screen behind the pipe that catches debris. A clean filter restores flow and reduces strain on the pump.

Don’t ignore the annual service. A qualified technician will check the gas valve, combustion chamber and safety controls. Skipping this check can shorten the boiler’s lifespan – most models last 10‑15 years if you keep up with maintenance.

Troubleshooting Common Water Heater Issues

Cold water showers are often caused by a tripped reset button. Press it for about five seconds, then watch the temperature gauge. If the heater trips again, the heating element might be failing. To test, turn the power off, remove the element, and check it with a multimeter for continuity. No reading means it needs replacing.

Sometimes the problem isn’t the element but the thermostat. A stuck thermostat can keep the heater from turning on at all. Try lowering the temperature setting a few degrees and see if the heater kicks in. If it does, the thermostat may need calibration or replacement.

Another easy fix is clearing sediment. Over time minerals settle at the bottom of the tank, reducing efficiency and making noise. Drain a quarter of the tank, let the water sit for ten minutes, then flush with fresh water. This simple flush can restore heat output and extend the heater’s life.

When you’ve tried these steps and the heater still won’t heat, it’s time to call a pro. Trying to replace a gas‑connected element yourself can be dangerous without proper tools and knowledge.

Keeping your home heating healthy is mostly about regular, low‑effort maintenance. A quick visual, a simple pressure check, and a yearly service keep most breakdowns at bay. If you ever feel unsure, our Bridgewater team is just a call away – we’ll get your heat back on fast and safely.