Winter help
Every cold snap, this is the fault I get called about most. Modern boilers drain a little acidic water through a plastic pipe, and where that pipe runs outside it can freeze solid. The boiler senses the blockage and shuts down to protect itself. The fix is usually a jug of warm water.
Smell gas? Stop here. Open windows and doors, don’t flick switches, and call the National Gas Emergency line free on 0800 111 999 before anything else.
It's below zero outside, the boiler has locked out, and you may hear a gurgling sound from it. Many boilers show a specific code: F28 or F29 on a Vaillant, EA on a Worcester. Follow the white or grey plastic pipe from the boiler: if it goes through the wall and down outside, that's the suspect.
I’m Jamie, a Gas Safe registered engineer (No. 977838) in Burgess Hill. I handle boiler and heating repairs in Burgess Hill and across Mid Sussex, Mon to Fri with some evenings.
FAQ
A modern condensing boiler recovers extra heat from its flue gases, which produces a small, steady trickle of mildly acidic water. The condensate pipe drains that away, usually to a drain inside or outside. It is normal and means the boiler is running efficiently.
Foam pipe insulation on the outside run helps a lot, and increasing the pipe's fall or diameter, or rerouting it to an inside drain, sorts stubborn cases. I fit lagging in minutes on a service visit.
Note the fault code, try one reset, and if it comes back get in touch. Cold snaps also expose weak ignition parts and struggling pumps, so the code matters.
Get a quote
Send me a few details, and a photo of the boiler if you can. I'll get back to you quickly with a clear, no-obligation quote and honest advice.
