🔥 Common Questions People Ask Heating Engineers (with Answers)

1. How often should I service my boiler?

Answer:
You should have your boiler serviced once a year by a qualified Gas Safe registered engineer. Regular servicing keeps your system running efficiently, prevents breakdowns, and ensures it’s operating safely.

2. Why is my radiator cold at the top but hot at the bottom?

Answer:
This usually means there’s air trapped in the radiator. Bleeding the radiator will normally fix the issue. If it keeps happening, it could point to a bigger problem such as sludge buildup or circulation issues.

3. What does it mean if my boiler is losing pressure?

Answer:
A pressure drop can be caused by a leak, a faulty pressure relief valve, or air in the system. It’s best to check for visible leaks and, if none are found, contact a heating engineer to inspect and repair the issue.

4. How can I improve the efficiency of my heating system?

Answer:
You can improve efficiency by:

• Having your boiler serviced regularly

• Bleeding radiators

• Installing thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs)

• Using a smart thermostat

• Flushing the system to remove sludge buildup

5. What size boiler do I need for my home?

Answer:
That depends on your home size, number of bathrooms, and hot water demand. For example, a small flat may need a 24–28kW combi boiler, while a larger home with multiple bathrooms might need a 35kW+ boiler or a system boiler. A heating engineer can calculate the correct output for you.

6. What’s the difference between a combi, system, and regular boiler?

Answer:

• Combi boiler: Provides heating and hot water directly, no tank needed.

• System boiler: Needs a cylinder for hot water storage, ideal for homes with higher demand.

• Regular (conventional) boiler: Uses both a hot water cylinder and cold water tank, common in older systems.

7. How long does a boiler last?

Answer:
Most boilers last 10–15 years if properly maintained. Regular servicing and timely repairs can help extend its lifespan.

8. Do I need a power flush?

Answer:
You might if your system shows signs like cold spots on radiators, noisy pipes, or discoloured water when bleeding radiators. A power flush removes sludge and debris, helping your system run more efficiently.

9. Why is my boiler making strange noises?

Answer:
Gurgling, banging, or whistling sounds can be caused by air in the system, limescale buildup, or low water pressure. It’s best to have an engineer inspect it before it leads to a breakdown.

10. Are smart thermostats worth it?

Answer:
Yes. Smart thermostats help you control heating remotely, learn your schedule, and reduce energy bills by heating your home more efficiently.

11. Can I install my own boiler?

Answer:
No — only a Gas Safe registered engineer can legally install or replace a gas boiler. DIY installation is dangerous and can invalidate your warranty and home insurance.

12. How do I know if my boiler is beyond repair?

Answer:
If your boiler is over 10 years old, breaks down frequently, or parts are hard to find, it may be more cost-effective to replace it with a new, energy-efficient model.

13. What’s included in a boiler service?

Answer:
A full boiler service includes:

• Visual inspection of the unit and flue

• Checking gas pressure and flow

• Cleaning components (like the burner and heat exchanger)

• Checking safety devices

• Issuing a service record or certificate

14. Do you offer emergency call-outs?

Answer:
Yes, many heating engineers (like us) offer 24/7 emergency services for urgent problems such as gas leaks, no heating, or boiler breakdowns.

15. How can I tell if my heating engineer is qualified?

Answer:
Always check that your engineer is Gas Safe registered. You can ask to see their Gas Safe ID card or verify their details on the official Gas Safe Register website.

Would you like me to tailor this list for a specific type of heating engineer (e.g., domestic, commercial, oil, or renewable heating systems)? I can adjust the questions and answers accordingly.