Heating not working: what to do

When your heating stops working, it can quickly become a major problem for any household, especially during colder months. While many common issues can be resolved with basic troubleshooting, knowing when to call a professional and understanding who is responsible for repairs is essential. This guide will walk you through common heating problems and how to address them, helping you restore warmth to your home.

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Why your heating isn't working: common causes

When your heating stops working, the cause can range from simple fixes to more complex system failures. Identifying the type of heating system you have and the nature of the problem is the first step towards a solution.

Boiler or central heating system issues

Central heating systems, typically powered by a gas boiler, are common in UK homes. Issues often include low boiler pressure, a pilot light that has gone out, or a system lockout due to a fault. Air trapped in the system, particularly in radiators, can also prevent effective heating.

Electric heating problems

For homes with electric heating, problems are usually related to the power supply, faulty elements, or issues with individual units like electric radiators. A tripped circuit breaker or a blown Fuse can cut power to electric heaters.

Thermostat and control malfunctions

Your thermostat is the brain of your heating system. If it is not working correctly, your heating will not either. Common thermostat issues include incorrect settings, programming errors, or flat batteries. Sometimes, the thermostat might be too close to a heat source, causing it to register an inaccurate room temperature and switch off prematurely.

Step-by-step troubleshooting for no heating

Before calling a professional, many heating problems can be diagnosed and sometimes resolved with a few simple checks.

Check your power and fuel supply

First, ensure your heating system has power and fuel. For gas central heating, check that your boiler is plugged in and the Fuse switch is on. Verify that your gas supply is active; other gas appliances (like a hob) can confirm this. For electric heating, check your fuse box for tripped circuit breakers or blown fuses. If you have a prepayment meter, ensure you have sufficient credit.

Review thermostat settings and programming

Incorrect thermostat settings are a frequent culprit. Make sure your thermostat is set to "heating" mode, not just "hot water", and that the desired temperature is higher than the current room temperature. Check any programmed schedules to ensure the heating is set to come on at the right times. If your thermostat runs on batteries, try replacing them.

Inspect your boiler or electric heater

For boilers, look for a pilot light (if applicable) and check for any error codes displayed on the unit. Your boiler's manual can help you interpret these codes. Many modern boilers have a reset button; pressing this might resolve a temporary fault. For electric heaters, check for any visible damage or indicator lights.

Bleeding radiators and checking system pressure

If some radiators are cold at the top but warm at the bottom, they likely have trapped air. You can bleed them using a radiator key to release the air. For central heating systems, low boiler pressure is a common issue. Check the pressure gauge on your boiler; if it is below the recommended level (usually between 1 and 1.5 bar), you can often repressurise it yourself by following your boiler's manufacturer instructions. Many common boiler issues, such as low pressure, can often be resolved by the homeowner following manufacturer instructions.

Homeowner vs renter: who's responsible for heating repairs?

Understanding who is responsible for heating repairs is crucial, especially for tenants.

Homeowner responsibilities for heating maintenance

As a homeowner, you are responsible for maintaining your heating system. Regular servicing, typically annually, can prevent breakdowns and ensure efficiency. It is also your responsibility to address any issues promptly, whether through DIY troubleshooting or by calling a qualified engineer. The average UK home uses around 9,500 kWh of gas per year, primarily for heating, making efficient and well-maintained systems important for managing energy costs1. Understanding your energy usage can help you manage these costs more effectively.

Landlord obligations and Tenant rights in the UK

Landlords in the UK have clear legal obligations to ensure heating systems are safe and in good working order. Section 11 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 mandates that landlords must keep installations for space heating and water heating in repair and proper working order. This includes boilers, radiators, central heating pipework, and fixed electric heaters.

Furthermore, the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998 require landlords to ensure all gas appliances, fittings, and flues in rented properties are safe. This includes arranging an annual gas safety check by a Gas Safe registered engineer and providing tenants with a copy of the Gas Safety Certificate (CP12) within 28 days of the check, or before a new tenancy begins.

What to do in a heating emergency as a renter

If your heating stops working, report it to your landlord or letting agent immediately, preferably in writing (email or text message). Keep a record of all communications. If the issue is an emergency (e.g., no heating in winter, especially for vulnerable tenants), your landlord should act quickly to resolve it. If they fail to respond or resolve the issue within a reasonable timeframe, you can seek advice from Citizens Advice or your local council's housing department. You can also register for the Priority Services Register if you are in a vulnerable situation.

When to call a professional heating engineer

While basic troubleshooting can solve many problems, some issues require expert intervention.

Signs you need expert help

You should call a professional heating engineer if:

• You smell gas - turn off your gas supply and call the National Gas Emergency Service on 0800 111 999 immediately.
• Your boiler is leaking.
• There are unusual noises coming from your boiler or heating system.
• You have tried basic troubleshooting steps without success.
• Your boiler displays a persistent error code you cannot resolve.
• You suspect a carbon monoxide leak (e.g., your carbon monoxide alarm sounds).

Finding a qualified and registered engineer

Always use a qualified and registered engineer. For gas appliances, this means a Gas Safe registered engineer. You can check an engineer's credentials on the Gas Safe Register website. For electric heating, look for an electrician registered with a competent person scheme.

Emergency call-outs and safety considerations

In a heating emergency, especially during cold weather or if you have vulnerable household members, you might need an emergency call-out. Be aware that these can be more expensive. Prioritise safety: never attempt repairs on gas appliances yourself, and always turn off the power supply before inspecting electric heaters.

Preventing future heating problems

Proactive measures can significantly reduce the likelihood of your heating failing when you need it most.

Regular servicing and maintenance

Annual servicing by a qualified engineer is the best way to keep your heating system in top condition. This helps identify and fix minor issues before they become major breakdowns, improves efficiency, and extends the lifespan of your boiler or electric heaters.

Considering smart heating solutions

Upgrading to a smart thermostat or smart heating controls can offer better control over your home's temperature, potentially saving energy and preventing issues through intelligent scheduling and remote access. Many homeowners pair this with a smart meter installation to track usage more accurately.

Preparing your home for colder weather

Simple steps like insulating pipes, checking for draughts, and ensuring your radiators are not blocked by furniture can improve your heating system's efficiency. Bleeding radiators annually before winter can also help ensure they heat effectively. For more ways to reduce your energy consumption, explore these energy efficiency tips.

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