A boiler and central heating system that isn’t kept in good working order or serviced regularly is at risk of breaking down at any time. This is disastrous enough if it occurs during an exceptionally cold spell of weather but is even more so if it involves a gas leak, a potentially lethal escape of carbon monoxide, or causes a fire due to electrical fault.
Repairs can be costly and engineers may not always be available to provide a call out immediately at short notice so it’s vital to keep your boiler and heating system well maintained.
Before the onset of winter, it’s a good idea to schedule a boiler service by a qualified engineer. Waiting until your boiler breaks down can prove expensive in repair bills. By taking out central heating cover or boiler insurance, you can ensure your boiler and central heating are regularly serviced and have peace of mind that there will be a reliable repairman available to make a call out if the worst should happen.
Never try to service or repair your boiler yourself. If you are a tenant in rented accommodation, your landlord is responsible for ensuring your system is serviced regularly and kept in good condition. Always contact your landlord if you have any concerns regarding this.
Gas appliances that are not well maintained are at risk of giving off carbon monoxide, which is a potentially fatal colourless and odourless gas. Gas fires are particularly at risk of this, so regular checks are a must. A carbon monoxide detector can be fitted in your home, which will warn you of any presence of the gas. These are inexpensive to buy and can be purchased from electrical or DIY stores.
If the detector alerts you that carbon monoxide is present, turn off your gas supply at the mains and immediately call the emergency number for Transco, which is 0800 111 999.
If you smell gas in your home or think you may have a gas leak, switch off the gas supply at the mains and call Transco immediately on their emergency number 0800 111 999. Do not use any form of naked flame and do not attempt to switch on or off any electrical equipment.
The government has issued safety guidelines regarding gas appliances, which should be adhered to at all times.
- Do not attempt to use any gas appliance that you think may be faulty. Warning signs can include flames that are yellow or orange (if they aren’t intended to be this colour), stained or sooty appliances and pilot lights which frequently go out.
- Do not block air vents on appliances or cover the appliance in any way.
- Do not obstruct or block airbricks or ventilation grilles.
- Do not cover or block flues.
Choosing a boiler service plan that is right for you can help protect you in case of emergency, and keep your boiler safe and well maintained.
