Why Is My Hot Water Not Working?

Waking up to a cold shower is never pleasant. If your hot water has suddenly stopped, there are several common issues that could be the cause. Before calling in a professional, try these troubleshooting steps to identify and possibly fix the problem yourself.

Check for Boiler Error Codes

Modern boilers often display error codes when something goes wrong. For instance:

• Baxi Boilers: Error code E118 indicates low water pressure.
• Vaillant or Glow-worm Boilers: Error code F75 also points to low pressure.

Consult your boiler's manual to interpret error codes and follow the recommended actions. Often, these issues can be resolved with simple steps like repressurising the system.

Verify Water Pressure

Low water pressure is a common culprit for hot water issues. Your boiler's pressure gauge should typically read between 1 and 1.5 bar. If it's below this range, you may need to top up the pressure using the filling loop. Always refer to your boiler's manual for specific instructions.

Inspect Gas Supply

If your boiler runs on gas, ensure that your gas supply is active. Try turning on another gas appliance, like a hob or fireplace, to confirm. If there's no gas, contact the National Gas Emergency Service at 0800 111 999.

Examine Thermostat and Timer Settings

Incorrect thermostat or timer settings can prevent your boiler from heating water. Ensure that:

• The thermostat is set to the desired temperature (usually above 21°C).
• The timer is correctly set, especially after power outages or daylight saving changes.

Adjust settings as needed and observe if the boiler responds accordingly.

Reset the Boiler

Sometimes, a simple reset can resolve boiler issues. Locate the reset button on your boiler (refer to the manual) and follow the reset procedure. If the boiler doesn't restart or the issue persists, it may require professional attention.

Check for Frozen Pipes

In colder weather, the condensate pipe can freeze, causing a blockage. If you suspect this:

• Locate the condensate pipe (usually a white plastic pipe leading outside).
• Thaw it gently using warm (not boiling) water or a warm cloth.

Once thawed, reset the boiler and check if the hot water returns.

When to Call a Professional

If you've tried the above steps and still have no hot water, it's time to consult a qualified heating engineer. Persistent issues may indicate:

• Faulty components like the diverter valve or heat exchanger.
• Electrical problems within the boiler.
• Internal leaks or corrosion.

Professional diagnosis and repair ensure safety and restore your hot water efficiently.

Need Expert Help?

At Jones Heating, we specialise in diagnosing and repairing boiler issues promptly. Serving Dunfermline, Kirkcaldy, and surrounding areas, our experienced engineers are ready to restore your hot water.

📞 Call us: 01383 660098
🌐 Visit: jones-heating.co.uk/dunfermline-boiler-repair/

Don't let boiler problems leave you in the cold—contact us today for reliable service.