Category: BoilerCare

The cost-of-living crisis is affecting everyone in the UK, and one of the main propellants is the rapidly rising cost of energy. Simply put, your household bills are getting more expensive, whether you pay for gas, electricity, or both.

Luckily, having an efficient boiler can help you reduce your energy consumption, directly saving you money on your heating bills. It’s also important if you rent out your property too, as it will help keep costs down and be more appealing for tenants on the market, hence landlord boiler cover is key.  

But how can you help your boiler run at maximum efficiency, and how can our boiler repair and cover services help? Read on to find out.

1. Make sure it is regularly serviced

One of the best ways to maintain peak boiler efficiency is to ensure that it is regularly serviced by a qualified engineer. Our engineers will help to clean your boiler system, check for any leaks, correct the pressure, and more to ensure you nothing is inhibiting your boiler’s ability to function.

All our Boilercare plans come with a free annual boiler service and emergency boiler breakdown cover to give you peace of mind when it comes to your household heating and hot water.

2. Turn your boiler on when it is warmer

You might not have thought about it, but a boiler that stays unused for six months of the year will be significantly more inefficient once it is turned on again for winter due to the seizing up of key, internal parts.

Regularly turning your boiler on for 15 minutes will help it keep up to speed and drastically reduce efficiency loss throughout the year, as it will help to keep the fan, pumps, and diverter valves moving.

Plus, you’d rather know when it is warm if your boiler is faulty, as it will save you calling for an emergency boiler service when you desperately need the warmth.

3. Carry out the maintenance you can on your end

Not everything requires the specialist help of an engineer! Whenever it’s time to have a “life admin” day or a spring clean, take a few minutes to give your central heating and boiler a service of your own.

Dust off your boiler regularly to prevent build up, blockages, and deterioration over time using a soft cloth on the outside of your boiler. Never remove the boiler cover unless you are a professional Gas Safe registered engineer.

Maintaining your radiators also helps your boiler, if your radiators aren’t running efficiently, this can make your boiler work a lot harder. Bleed your radiators to release trapped air; you won’t need to call a plumber to do it for you. It’s as easy as opening a valve on your radiator and letting out the trapped air which can otherwise prevent them from fully heating up.

If you have the means, consider insulating your pipes too, as this will help reduce heat loss to keep your water hotter for longer, whether it’s in the radiators or on the way. This, of course, saves you money on your energy bill.

4. Consider power flushing your central heating

If you’ve bled your radiators and cleaned your boiler but your home still doesn’t feel warm, you may need a full system power flush cleaning session. This may be because of deposit and “sludge” build up in your boiler, which can result in poor circulation and fuel wastage.

Some of the warning signs include:

• Cold spots at the bottom of your radiator
• Banging sounds from the boiler
• Noisy pipes
• Dirty water when bleeding radiators

Our engineers can conduct a system power flush to remove any build up and improve central heating system performance, reducing your overall energy consumption.

5. Think about installing a new energy efficient boiler

Deciding to install a whole newhttps://butco.com/boiler-installation/ boiler is no easy decision. The cost of both the boiler and installation could put you off making the change, but the added efficiency is likely to save you money in the long run, depending on the operational limitations of your current boiler.

A new boiler could save you hundreds of pounds worth of energy each year, especially if your current boiler is quite old and outdated. Plus, with prices still on the rise, the number you save is only likely to get higher.

Not sure which type of boiler is best for you? Not to worry, we can talk you through every option in detail to ensure you make the correct choice, and our online boiler quotation tool can help you receive and instant, no-obligation quote to make your decision.

Talk to us about your options

From our boiler service and cover plans to the full installation of a new boiler system, we’re here to handle all your heating needs. Our landlord boiler insurance or boiler cover with a service will give you and your tenants the peace of mind you need should anything ever go wrong. 

If you’d like a no obligation chat with one of our qualified engineers to discuss which service could be right for you, get in touch.

Send an email to info@butco.com or call us on 0333 366 1121 to find out our recommendations today!

The Great British winter is not known for being forgiving. You may find yourself using your boiler significantly more over the winter months, which means you will want it running at peak efficiency. If your boiler is not within the optimal range of pressure (usually between 1 and 1.5 bar), then it may not be working quite as intended.

Many people don’t know this, but you can repressurise your own boiler without the need of an external boiler repair service. Our guide below tells you exactly what you need to know about repressurising your boiler using multiple different methods.

Important: If you follow these steps but your boiler does not repressurise, make sure you utilise our boiler cover with a service or your landlord boiler cover to organise an engineer visit as soon as possible.

When to repressurise your boiler

Your boiler may need repressurising when the internal pressure is not within its optimal range, often considered to be between 1 and 1.5 bar. This may result in your heating or hot water not quite working as intended.

The internal pressure of your boiler is indicated on the front of your boiler by either a digital reading or traditional pressure gauge.

If your boiler has a pressure gauge, you will know that it is not operating at maximum efficiency as the needle will be pointed towards a red section of the display. For digital screens, there will usually be a clear warning displayed or the pressure number will be flashing.

If your boiler pressure is too high, then it is likely that you need to bleed your radiators – if you’re not sure how to do that, we have uploaded a guide to help you.

If your boiler pressure is too low (below 1 bar), you will need to repressurise your boiler to ensure your system is operating at maximum efficiency. There are several ways to do this:

1. Using an internal filling key

Before filling up any boiler with water to help repressurise the system, you must first turn off its power.

Next, you want to detach the tray below the boiler system and take out the filling key. There will be a black plastic manifold at the base of the boiler which the key will fit inside – on this manifold, you will see two logos of a padlock, one open and one closed.

You will want to insert the key so that the arrow is pointing towards the open padlock and turn it to the closed padlock position. From there, you will want to twist the white plastic nut beside the black manifold to release some cold water in the boiler. You will be able to hear this happening.

Keep an eye on your boiler’s pressure display. Once it has reached the required 1.5 bar, tighten the white plastic nut to stop water flow, and twist the key to the locked position.

You can now safely remove the key, though be aware that a little bit of water may also leave the system here – this is perfectly normal.

If your system continues to drip after the removal of the key, ensure the nut is tightened as much as possible.

You can find a detailed video on our FAQ page!

2. Using an external filling hose

When using an external filling hose, first ensure that the boiler is switched off, and that both ends of the hose are securely connected to the corresponding valves. If you do not have your hose to hand, check around your boiler and beneath the kitchen sink.

Next, using a screwdriver, you need to open both valves so that the water can start filling into the boiler. Once you can hear the system filling up, keep your eye on the pressure reader, and isolate the valves once your system has reached the desired 1.5 bar.

Release the end of the hose that feeds into your boiler. At this stage, you can expect some water to drip out of the system, but this will stop after a few moments.

For a more detailed how-to on using an external filling hose, check our FAQ page.

3. Using a Worcester keyless filling link

The newest and most simple method of repressurising a boiler is with a keyless filling link. As always, make sure the power to your boiler is switched off before repressurising.

Remove the tray beneath the boiler and look for a blue lever on one of the pipes. Simply pull that lever down gently and keep a close eye on the pressure display. Once it has reached the desired pressure of 1.5 bar, release the lever.

If you’re not sure what you’re looking for, check out our video on using a keyless filling link on our FAQ page.

Contact us if your boiler hasn’t repressurised

If you’ve followed the steps for your type of boiler but it doesn’t appear to have repressurised, you may need the help of a qualified engineer. Our engineers are specialists in gas, electric, and combi boiler repair, and will get your system back up to full functionality in no time.

Whether our engineers are visiting as part of one of our boiler care service plans or to take a look at a faulty smart heating control system, rest assured knowing you’re getting the best service on the market.

Our boiler service cover plans can give you peace of mind knowing that we are just a phone call away to help get you back up and running. We also have landlord boiler cover options available to ensure your tenants have access to a quick fix if things go wrong.

Thinking of replacing your boiler, joining one of our boiler care plans, or repairing your central heating? Contact us today by emailing info@butco.com or call us on 0333 366 1121.   

Routinely servicing your boiler will support sustaining your boiler’s efficiency and how it functions, and it can also save you money. However, these are not the only benefits of frequent boiler checks.

Below, our expert team have highlighted 3 key reasons why you should regularly service your boiler.

1. Helps protect against breakages

When boilers and other gas appliances are not regularly serviced, they are more prone to breaking down. Routine servicing of your home appliances will reduce the possibility of this, meaning you can avoid any unexpected repair bills.

A gas leak or breakage can be costly to repair, especially if you are a landlord and have multiple properties to manage. However, we offer landlord boiler cover to ensure that the heating in all your properties is working as intended. We will also provide a Gas Safety Certificate for every inspection under a landlord boiler insurance plan, so you and your tenants can relax knowing that your property is well cared for. Not only this, but our landlord boiler cover comes with a free annual service to help keep your properties in line with the current safety standards without needing to book multiple services.

2. Increase appliance efficiency

With the energy price cap rising this month, the BBC predicts that the average electricity and gas bill for a typical household on a standard tariff will rise by almost £700 a year. Combining this with the ongoing supply chain problems in Europe and escalating geopolitical issues, it is likely that these costs will continue to rise.

Sky News also reports that the energy price cap increased last October and again this month by an unprecedented 54%, so a further increase in energy costs is expected due to growing inflation. It is therefore important to ensure that your appliances are as efficient as possible to minimise the cost of running your boiler.

Consider installing a smart heating control system, which will help you monitor and adjust the heating of your home from compatible devices, and help you measure your energy use. In addition to this, having a service carried out by a Gas Safe Registered Engineer will also help to ensure your appliances are running as efficiently as possible. They will carry out all the necessary checks to ensure that the appliances are running as instructed by the manufacturers’ recommendations. This is essential as this service will identify any problems with gas pressures, helping to reduce your bills.

3. Reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning

A poorly maintained boiler or heater might leak carbon monoxide, which can be extremely harmful and even deadly when inhaled. As carbon monoxide is invisible and odourless, it is difficult to detect in your home. If you aren’t sure whether your boiler has been serviced recently, it’s imperative to have your boiler checked to be on the safe side.

Failing to service your boiler could prove fatal, so it is crucial to make sure you book an annual check-up.

Contact us

Whether you want to discuss a boiler care plan or if you’re looking to install a new boiler, why not contact our expert team?

Call us on 0333 366 1121 or send an email to info@butco.com.

The boiler is the unsung hero of your home. Whilst it’s easy to overlook it, you will soon wish you hadn’t when your hot water or heating stop working!

It’s so important to take care of your boiler with regular servicing and maintenance so that you can help prevent a boiler breakdown and reduce the risk of potential damage to your home and health. This means that it’s vital to know the signs that your boiler needs an upgrade, and if you spot them, to organise an emergency boiler service.

Whilst regular services will help maintain your boiler, there will come a time when it needs to be replaced. Here are some of the top signs to look out for that your boiler needs an upgrade:

Your boiler is leaking

It goes without saying that when your boiler is leaking, it’s a clear sign that something is wrong. A leaky boiler could indicate that a seal or another internal component of the system has broken. If you leave a boiler to leak water, it can cause significant damage to other components in the boiler, or even short-circuit your electric.

Your radiators aren’t heating up properly

Faulty radiators are definitely something you’ll want to avoid in the winter months. It can be difficult to notice radiator problems while the weather is warmer, but it’s still important to check all your radiators when you turn them back on again. If your radiators are taking too long to heat up, it could be a sign your boiler needs an upgrade. Alternatively, your heating system might be blocked and may need cleaning out.

Your energy bills have increased

As your boiler gets older, it can become less efficient, costing you more to run it each year. Rapidly increasing energy bills can be a sign that your boiler isn’t working as well as it used to, and might need a service or an upgrade. For an inefficient boiler, you’ll need to contact a boiler service provider to help solve the problem or even replace the boiler if necessary. This can be costly, but if you invest in boiler and heating cover, you can potentially reduce the risk of an unexpected bill.

Your boiler is making too much noise

All boilers should make some noise when they’re on, however if your boiler is making loud, or unusual noises you’ve not heard before, it could be a sign that there is something wrong. Banging noises might indicate that something is broken within the boiler, meaning it should be turned off as soon as possible and an engineer should be called out to avoid further damage.

The boiler smells bad

If your boiler is working normally, there shouldn’t be any smell at all. If you notice any unusual or bad smells coming from your boiler, you must turn it off and contact an engineer right away, as this could be extremely dangerous. A foul, egg smelling odour can indicate a potential gas leak, which presents a significant fire risk.

Another smell that can leak from the boiler can be due to carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide in itself is odourless, however a leak of this gas can produce a smell if your boiler isn’t burning fuel properly. Carbon monoxide is an extremely dangerous gas that can cause illness or even death in high doses, so if this is the case, you must evacuate your home and call an engineer. To help detect this, you can install a carbon monoxide detector in your home.

Your heating isn’t working as well as it used to

If your heating is simply just not working as well as it used to, and is frequently breaking down, this could be a sign that your boiler may be coming to the end of its useful life, leading to pricey repair bills. For a fixed fee, one of our expert engineers will carry out a full inspection of your boiler.

How Butco Can Help

Recognising the signs that your boiler needs an upgrade is important, however, to prevent against unexpected bills and issues that can leave your home without heating, it’s essential to invest in a good quality boiler service cover plan. At Butco, we can provide boiler cover with service, meaning we can support you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

To learn more about our BoilerCare plans, talk to our friendly, local team by calling 0333 366 1121 or email us at info@butco.com.

As a landlord, you have a range of responsibilities when it comes to maintaining your properties and you must ensure you’re providing your tenants with a home that is protected and secure.  This means you must install and maintain the appropriate heating and security systems.

Studies show that up to 77% of UK residents use central heating to warm their homes during the winter, so chances are, your properties are likely to have boilers installed already.  It is essential that you ensure your properties heating system is maintained and in good working order, so your tenants are warm and safe in their homes.   

What is our BoilerCare Cover and What Does it Include?

Landlord Boiler Cover is an insurance for your heating system that gives you peace of mind knowing that any issues your tenants experience with their boiler could be covered.  By taking out landlord boiler cover with Butco you can remove the need for your tenants to contact you if their heating fails.

Whilst your home insurance may provide some level of boiler cover, you may find that the level of cover may be limited and you will still need to ensure your boiler has been serviced.  If you do not have any boiler cover as a landlord, it’s important you find a suitable boiler service cover plan to fulfil all your needs.

Choosing a dedicated and passionate boiler service provider that offers an industry-leading service and a wide range of cover to suit your requirements is essential.

How Long do Boilers Last?

Boilers will naturally deteriorate from usage over a period of time.   A well-maintained boiler should last between 10 and 15 years, with regular servicing and repairs if needed.

In the UK, the average domestic boiler is used more seasonally. Whilst the UK is familiar with fluctuating weather, we often experience extremely cold temperatures in the winter months, which is when we rely on our boiler systems to keep our homes warm.

How Can You Tell if there is Something Wrong with Your Boiler?

If you or your tenant is worried your boiler is breaking, it’s best to contact our call-out team. 98% of call outs are responded to on the same day, meaning you can rest assured that your tenants remain safe and warm in their homes.

Here are some features you should look for if you’re worried your boiler is breaking:

• Your boiler is making noises that are louder than usual.
• Your hot water is not as hot as usual.
• Your central heating and radiators are not working at optimal efficiency.
• The boiler itself has difficulty turning on when it should.

How Can Butco Help?

At Butco, our dedicated team of engineers are experts in heating. Our landlord boiler service plans include a FREE annual boiler service and safety check, and we operate a 24-hour callout service for boiler breakdowns. 

Find out what we can do for you by giving us a call on 0121 355 1121 today.

Don’t Just Take our Word for it!

Here’s what some of our customers have to say about our boiler service plans:

“Butco’s plans are great – I found that I can get everything I need for less than £10 a month. Even 24/7 callout for emergencies.”

“Excellent service, came out same day. Would recommend.”