When winter arrives it can be a nightmare to live with than a cold house. Heating systems for central heating are essential for most UK homes, particularly when temperatures drop. It is possible to ask “Why is my central heating not working but hot water is?” Don’t worry. This blog explains typical boiler issues and the best ways you can fix your central heating system.
Just in case you suspect gas leaks or detect gas in the air from your boiler, you should leave your property and contact us at Prisma Boiler Grants number immediately, +020 8145 2135.
Let’s look at the causes of your central heating not operating, what quick solutions you can attempt at home, and when you need to speak with a gas safe engineer.
How Do You Fix The Boiler Before Making A Call To An Engineer?
If the boiler is experiencing difficulties, it is essential to decide if expert assistance is needed. Prisma Boiler Grants Gas Safe technicians have been certified to resolve boiler issues in a safe manner. Their skills are essential in these instances.
- Do you need to pressurize the boiler?
- Make sure you reset your boiler
- Don’t forget to clean your radiators
- Replace the thermostat battery
- You should ensure you have credit
Tried these fixes but still no heat? Let a Gas Safe engineer handle it. Check your eligibility or call for professional assistance.
Why Is My Central Heating Not Working But Hot Water?
There are numerous reasons there is no heating even though your boiler is in operation. This happens frequently especially when it comes to combination boilers. Central heating might not function however the boiler may nevertheless supply hot water. The thermostat, the boiler setting or the low pressure of the boiler could be the cause.
There are times when the problem isn’t in the boiler or the heating system, but it is with the central heating unit. Increase the temperature of your heating if you are able to. Start your heating device. Make sure that the radiators are heating up if the boiler is operating. In case not, you can continue to read.
Common Reasons Why Central Heating Stops Working
If you find that your radiators are cold but the hot water taps function normally It’s typically a sign that something in your heating circuit isn’t working. Here are a few of the most frequently occurring reasons:
1. Thermostat Settings May Be Wrong
The thermostat in your home controls the general temperature. If it’s set at a low temperature or isn’t responding, the boiler will not get the signal to turn to heat. Always ensure that it’s set to the highest temperature of the room.
Also, make sure to check:
- Is the thermostat battery functioning?
- Does the display appear empty?
- Have you recently made changes to your settings or the timer?
2. Timer and Control Panel Faults
Sometimes the central heating or timer schedule can reset because of a power outage or battery problem. Your boiler could be set to provide the hot water but not heating.
Make sure that it’s set to ” heating and hot water” mode. Turn it off manually and verify that the radiators are heating up.
3. Boiler Pressure Is Too Low
A low pressure in your boiler is among the most common causes of heating problems. Take a look at the gauge for pressure It should read approximately 1.25 to 1.5 bars. If it’s less than 1, your boiler will not perform as efficiently.
Fill the boiler’s loop to pressurize it. Don’t overfill. If pressure is constantly dropping it could be a sign of the possibility of a leak within your system.
4. Diverter Valve Stuck in Combi Boiler
In a combi-boiler, the internal component — called the diverter valve is responsible for deciding whether hot water is sent to radiators or taps. If the valve is stuck in the water-hot side the taps will be working but the radiators won’t be heated.
This isn’t something you could fix by yourself. The problem must be diagnosed and repaired by an Gas Safe accredited engineer.
5. Air Trapped in Radiators
If your radiators are cool or even just slightly warm, notably at the top, a blockage of air could be the cause. This can be fixed easily by the process of bleeding out your radiators.
How to flush a radiator?
- Switch off the boiler.
- Make use of a radiator key to allow the valve to open slowly.
- Allow air to escape until the water starts to drip out.
- Shut off the valve completely.
After the bleeding, test the boiler’s pressure again.
6. Frozen Condensate Pipe in Cold Weather
If it’s cold outside when it’s cold outside, your condensate pipeline (which is the one that drains the acidic fluid from your boiler) could freeze, causing the boiler’s shut-down in order to protect yourself.
There could be gurgling sounds or notice an error message. To fix it:
- pour the warm (not hot) liquid on the pipe.
- Cover it with a warm towel.
- Start your boiler again after it has defrosted.
To prevent this from happening later on, insulate the pipe.
7. Boiler Pilot Light or Display Is Off
Older boilers are equipped with a lighting pilot; however, modern ones display an LCD. If one of them goes out the boiler may not be getting the power it needs.
Check:
- Your fuse box
- Power socket
- The power switch is located near the boiler.
If you’re in need of a reset, set the boiler. However, don’t try to reset it again when it locks out. Contact an expert instead.
What If Nothing Works? Time for a New Boiler?
If your boiler keeps breaking and is getting more frequent the time may be to look into a replacement. Older boilers are more energy-efficient and more susceptible to faults.
You may be eligible to receive the UK Government Free boiler Grant through the ECO4 scheme. These free boiler replacements are for homeowners and tenants who meet the criteria.
Final Thoughts: Keep Your Central Heating Reliable
Heating problems with central heating are quite common but can be solved with the correct steps. Start by checking the basics: thermostat, timer and pressure. Also, check the radiator valves. Try simple fixes such as pumping radiators or resetting the boiler or contact us at Prisma Boiler Grants.
FAQs: Central Heating Not Working
Q1. Why is my central heating not working but I have hot water?
Likely a stuck diverter valve, faulty thermostat, or low boiler pressure.
Q2. How do I bleed my radiators?
Use a radiator key, open the valve slowly, let air escape, and close once water flows.
Q3. Should I reset my boiler often?
No. If it locks out repeatedly, get it checked by a professional.
Q4. Can a frozen pipe stop central heating?
Yes. The condensate pipe freezing in winter can block your system.