Guides/Boiler Breakdown

What to Do If Your Boiler Breaks Down in Winter

A boiler breakdown in winter is stressful — but there are steps you can take immediately, and you may even qualify for a completely free replacement.

Gas Emergency: If you smell gas or suspect a gas leak, call the National Gas Emergency Service immediately on 0800 111 999 (free, 24/7). Do not use any electrical switches or naked flames.

Immediate Steps When Your Boiler Breaks Down

Check the boiler pressure gauge — if it's below 1 bar, the boiler may just need repressurising

Check your thermostat settings and timer — ensure they are set correctly

Reset the boiler using the reset button (check your boiler manual)

Check your fuse box — a tripped switch may have cut power to the boiler

Check if your neighbours have heating — if not, it may be a gas supply issue

If none of the above works, call a Gas Safe registered engineer

How to Stay Warm While Your Boiler is Repaired

While waiting for your boiler to be repaired or replaced, there are several ways to stay warm. Use electric fan heaters or oil-filled radiators to heat the rooms you use most. Wear layers of clothing and use extra blankets at night. Keep doors closed to retain heat in individual rooms. If you are elderly or have a health condition, contact your local council's social services team — they may be able to provide emergency heating equipment.

Could You Get a Free Replacement Instead of a Repair?

If your boiler is old, inefficient, or repeatedly breaking down, you may be better off applying for a completely free replacement under the Government's ECO4 scheme rather than paying for repairs. If you receive a qualifying benefit such as Universal Credit, Pension Credit, or Housing Benefit, and your home has an EPC rating of D, E, F, or G, you could qualify for a brand-new, A-rated boiler at absolutely no cost.

Could You Qualify for a Free Boiler?

You receive Universal Credit, Pension Credit, or another qualifying benefit

Your home has an EPC rating of D, E, F, or G

Your boiler is old, inefficient, or frequently breaking down

Check If I Qualify for a Free Boiler

Your Rights as a Tenant

If you are a tenant and your boiler breaks down, your landlord is legally responsible for repairing or replacing it within a reasonable time. In winter, "reasonable time" is generally considered to be 24 hours for emergency repairs. If your landlord fails to act, you can contact your local council's environmental health team. You may also qualify for a free boiler replacement under the ECO4 scheme — contact us to find out more.