3 weeks Ago
Keeping your boiler maintained is a crucial thing to be on top of, especially if you don't want to be forking out a hefty bill to repair it. Even though central heating systems get less use in the spring and summer, it's still important to be aware of how they're functioning. It's during this time that it's pivotal to listen out for odd noises and fix them early before they become a major problem later in the year.
According to Gordon Wallis, a sustainable energy expert at Your NRG , one boiler noise in particular should never be ignored, and it could cost up to £300 to put right if left unresolved. The boiler noise you shouldn't ignore that could cost £300 to repair Most people will stop thinking about boilers during the warmer months of spring and summer, but that's a dangerous game to play. Small issues that arise in that period could lead to costly repairs later down the line if not addressed quickly.
One sound that should raise immediate concern is bubbling or popping, often caused by a phenomenon known as kettling. This happens when limescale builds up inside the heat exchanger, causing water to overheat and create steam bubbles. Wallis explains: “Kettling is more than just a noisy nuisance—it’s a red flag that your system is struggling.
“Left unchecked, it can seriously damage your boiler, reduce efficiency, and lead to repair costs that easily run into the hundreds. It’s far more cost-effective to get it sorted now, when you don’t need the heating every day.” For households that use heating oil, there could be even more at stake.
Wallis says: "If your home runs on heating oil, a faulty boiler doesn’t just risk your comfort—it risks wasting a valuable and increasingly costly fuel source. “Oil-fired systems are more common in rural areas, where repairs can take longer to arrange. If a problem like kettling causes the boiler to fail, any oil in the system may go to waste.
Recommended reading: Why does my boiler pressure keep going too high and how do I lower it? Ignoring this common boiler 'red flag' might cost you £1000s How often should you service your boiler? Best time to book it in revealed “At this time of year, it’s easier to arrange a service, and prices are often lower. “A quick check now could save you not just hundreds in repair bills, but also hundreds in lost oil. That’s money literally going up in smoke.
” Wallis also highlights the importance of dealing with other noises like hissing or gurgling, which can point to trapped air, circulation problems, or pressure issues that reduce your heating system’s effectiveness..
