A Guide to Choosing the Right Boiler for Your Home

If you're in the market for a new boiler, you may be wondering which type is right for your home. With so many different options available, it can be tough to know where to start.

Here's a guide to help you choose the right boiler for your home. We'll cover the different types of boilers available, as well as their pros and cons. By the end, you'll know exactly which boiler is right for you.

The Different Types of Boilers 

1. Combination Boilers

Combination boilers, also known as combi boilers, are the most popular choice for residential homes. They are highly efficient and provide hot water on demand. Combi boilers are best for homes with one or two bathrooms, as they provide hot water to multiple taps and showers. They’re also easy to install and maintain. The only downside is that they don’t have a large capacity, so they may not be suitable for larger households.

2. System Boilers

System boilers are a great choice for larger households, as they have a larger capacity than combi boilers. They’re also more efficient than traditional boilers, as they heat hot water directly from the mains. The downside is that they require a separate hot water storage tank, which takes up extra space.

3. Conventional Boilers

Conventional boilers are the most traditional type of boiler and are perfect for older homes. They require a hot water storage tank and a cold water storage tank, which can take up a lot of space. They’re also not as efficient as other types of boilers, so they may not be the best choice for newer homes.

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Right Type of Boiler

Here are some key factors to keep in mind when choosing a boiler that fits your needs:

1. Size of Your Home

The size of your home will determine the size and type of boiler you need. Larger homes will require a larger boiler, while smaller homes may be able to get away with a smaller one.

2. Space Available

The amount of space you have available for the boiler will determine which type of boiler is best for you. If you have limited space, a combi boiler may be the best option, while a system boiler may be better suited to larger homes.

3. Efficiency

The efficiency of your boiler will determine how much energy you save in the long run. Newer boilers tend to be more efficient, so if you’re looking to save money, you should consider a newer model.

4. Budget

Your budget should be the first factor to consider when selecting a boiler. Different types of boilers have different price points, so it’s important to determine how much you’re willing to spend. This will help you narrow down your choices and pick one that fits your budget.

5. Maintenance

Maintenance is another important factor to consider when selecting a boiler. Some types of boilers require more maintenance than others, and this can add to your overall costs. Be sure to research all the maintenance requirements of the boiler you’re considering to ensure that you’re comfortable with the commitment.

Conclusion

Selecting the right boiler for your home can be a challenge, but with the right information and research, you can make a well-informed decision. Knowing the size of your home and how much hot water you need, as well as your budget, will help guide your decision. Knowing the different types of boilers and their advantages and disadvantages will also help you make the right choice for your home. If you need help deciding, you can always consult with a professional installer to make sure you have the best boiler for your home.

Action Plumbing and Heating has been operating for over 30 years and continuing, with great success, as a third-generation, family-run business. We are Belfast's No.1 gas boiler installation specialists. Contact us for a gas boiler service in Belfast.

Boiler Not Firing Up: Reasons Why and How to Fix Them

Boiler not firing up? You're not alone! This is a common problem that many homeowners experience. The good news is that it's usually something simple and can be fixed with a few easy steps. 

When your boiler isn't firing up, it could be caused by a variety of factors. Some of the most common include problems with the thermostat, electrical problems, or a lack of fuel. It's important to take the time to troubleshoot the issue and figure out what's causing the problem before attempting to fix it.

In this article, we'll look at some of the most common reasons why a boiler might not be firing up and how you can fix it. We'll also discuss some of the safety precautions you should take before attempting any repairs. By understanding the potential causes and taking the right steps to fix the problem, you can get your boiler back up and running in no time.

Causes for a Faulty Boiler

1 - Not Enough/No Gas 

The first thing to check if your boiler isn't firing up is to make sure there is enough gas. If there isn't enough gas, the boiler won't be able to ignite and heat your home. If you don't have any gas, then you'll need to contact your gas provider to arrange a delivery.

2 - Pilot Light Out

If the pilot light is out, it can prevent the boiler from firing up. You can try to relight the pilot light by following the instructions in your boiler's manual. If you're unable to relight it, then you should contact a qualified heating engineer to help.

3 - Thermostat Issues

Another potential cause of a boiler not firing up is a faulty thermostat. If the thermostat isn't working correctly, it won't be able to send the necessary signals to the boiler to turn on. You can try to reset the thermostat by following the instructions in your boiler's manual. If the reset doesn't work, you will need to contact a qualified heating engineer for help.

4 - Electrical Problems

If there are electrical issues with your boiler, it can prevent it from firing up. This could be caused by a problem with the wiring or a fault with the control board. If you suspect an electrical issue, you should contact a qualified electrician to help diagnose and fix the problem.

5 - Blockages

If there are blockages in your boiler, it can prevent the necessary air and gas from reaching the burner to ignite the boiler. You can try to clear any blockages yourself, but if you're unable to do so, you should contact a qualified heating engineer to help.

Safety Tips

Before attempting any repairs on your boiler, it's important to take a few safety precautions. Make sure you turn off the power to the boiler before attempting any repairs. You should also make sure you have the right tools and safety equipment for the job, such as gloves, safety glasses and a mask. Never attempt to repair a boiler if you are not qualified to do so, as this could be dangerous.

Conclusion

A boiler not firing up is a common problem that can have several causes. The most common cause is a lack of power, a problem with the thermostat, or an issue with the gas supply. In some cases, a boiler not firing up could be caused by a faulty diverter valve, a faulty gas valve, or a faulty fan motor. 

To fix a boiler that’s not firing up, start by checking the power, thermostat, and gas supply. If these are all working, then check the diverter valve, gas valve, and fan motor. If any of these parts are not working properly, they should be replaced or repaired. Finally, if none of these steps has solved the issue, it is best to contact a professional for help.

If you need a gas boiler service in Belfast, contact Action Plumbing and Heating. Let us help you get your boilers prepared for the cold months today!

Why Is My Boiler Leaking Water? Causes and What to Do

When a boiler is leaking water, it is a sign that something is not quite right with the system. Boilers are designed to contain and heat water, so if it is leaking, it is a cause for concern. Water leaks can be dangerous and costly, so it is important to identify and address the issue as soon as possible. If you are worried about a boiler leak, this blog post will help you find the cause.

Causes of Boiler Leaks

A boiler leak can have several different causes, some of which are relatively minor and easy to fix. Other causes can be more serious and can require professional assistance. By understanding the common causes of a boiler leak and the steps you can take to fix the problem, you can save yourself time and money.

1 - Broken Relief Valve 

A relief valve is a safety feature that is designed to automatically release excess pressure in the boiler. If the relief valve is broken, it can cause a leak. This is a relatively simple problem to fix, but it is important to make sure that the valve is replaced with a new one that is rated to handle the pressure of the boiler.

2 - Faulty Pressure Relief Valve

The pressure relief valve is designed to open when the pressure inside the boiler gets too high. If the valve is faulty, it can cause a leak. In this case, it is important to replace the valve with a new one that is rated to handle the pressure of the boiler.

3 - Corroded Pipes or Fittings

Corrosion can cause pipes and fittings to become weak and eventually break, leading to a leak. This is a more serious issue and requires professional assistance to fix it.

4 - Cracked Heat Exchanger

The heat exchanger is a key component of the boiler and is responsible for transferring heat from the boiler to the water in the system. If the heat exchanger is cracked, it can cause a serious leak. This is a major problem and needs to be addressed by a professional.

5 - Leaking Gaskets

Gaskets are used to seal the various components of the boiler to prevent leaks. If the gaskets are worn or damaged, they can cause a leak. This is a relatively easy problem to fix, but it is important to make sure that the gaskets are replaced with new ones that are rated to handle the pressure of the boiler.

6 - Normal Wear and Tear

Boiler components can wear out over time due to normal use. This can lead to a variety of problems, such as decreased efficiency, increased fuel consumption, and potential safety issues. It is important to regularly inspect and maintain the boiler to avoid these problems.

7 - Poor Installation

Poor installation can lead to a variety of problems with the boiler, including decreased efficiency, increased fuel consumption, and potential safety issues. It is important to make sure that all components of the boiler are installed correctly, and that any repairs or replacements are done by a qualified professional.

Conclusion

Leaks in a boiler system can be caused by a variety of issues, from minor problems to major ones. Understanding the common causes of a boiler leak and the steps you can take to fix the problem can save you time and money. If you are concerned about a boiler leak, it is important to take the necessary steps to diagnose and repair the issue as soon as possible.

If you need a gas boiler service in Belfast, contact Action Plumbing and Heating. Let our boiler specialists handle the boiler problems for you!