Winter in the South West can be unpredictable. One day you’re enjoying mild coastal breezes in Devon or Cornwall, the next a cold snap hits, and your boiler decides it’s had enough. Nothing ruins a cosy evening faster than no hot water or central heating when temperatures drop. As a trusted, family-run business serving homes and businesses across the region, we’ve seen our fair share of emergency boiler breakdowns at Watson and Sons Services.
While we’re always ready to help with reliable plumbing and heating solutions (including those urgent call-outs), we believe in empowering homeowners first. Before picking up the phone to us on 01803 844388, run through these essential checks. Many “breakdowns” turn out to be simple issues you can resolve yourself – saving time, money, and avoiding unnecessary engineer visits during peak winter demand.
1. Check the Basics: Is the Boiler Actually On?
It sounds obvious, but in the rush of a cold morning, it’s easy to overlook.
- Ensure the boiler is powered on – look for lights or a display screen.
- Verify the thermostat is set higher than the current room temperature.
- Confirm the timer/programmer is set to “on” or “constant” if needed.
- Check that the pilot light (on older models) is lit, or reset as per your manual.
A surprising number of winter “emergencies” are just a flicked-off switch or a low thermostat setting!
2. Boiler Pressure – The Most Common Culprit
Low system pressure is one of the top reasons boilers lock out in winter.
- Locate the pressure gauge (usually on the front or side of the boiler).
- It should read between 1 and 1.5 bar when cold (check your manual for exact specs).
- If it’s below 0.5 bar, top it up using the filling loop (two valves under or near the boiler – open slowly until pressure reaches the green zone, then close).
- Never over-pressurise – above 2.5–3 bar can cause leaks or safety valve discharge.
If the pressure keeps dropping after topping up, that’s when you need professional help to find the leak – and that’s where our experienced team steps in.
3. Radiators and Airlocks
Cold spots or radiators that won’t heat up? Air in the system is often to blame, especially after summer inactivity.
- Bleed your radiators: Use a radiator key to release air from the top (have a cloth ready for drips). Start upstairs and work down.
- If a whole zone is cold, check valves are open and the pump is running (you may hear it).
- Ensure thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs) aren’t stuck closed.
Bleeding is a quick DIY fix that restores heat in minutes for many South West homes.
4. Frozen Condensate Pipe – A Classic South West Winter Issue
In frosty Devon mornings, the condensate pipe (usually a white plastic pipe exiting the boiler to an outside drain) can freeze, causing the boiler to shut down safely.
- Look for the pipe outside – it’s often at ground level or against the wall.
- If frozen, gently thaw it with warm (not boiling) water poured along the pipe, or use a hot water bottle/warm cloth.
- Once thawed, the boiler should reset and restart.
To prevent repeats, lagging the pipe or rerouting it indoors is a smart upgrade we often recommend and carry out.
5. Power, Gas, and Fuel Supply
Quick safety checks:
- Is there electricity to the property? Check other appliances or the fuse box.
- For gas boilers: Ensure the gas supply is on (meter and isolation valve).
- Oil boilers: Check your tank level – winter usage spikes!
If there’s no gas supply across the street, it’s a National Grid issue – not your boiler.
6. Error Codes and Reset
Modern boilers display fault codes. Note the code, consult your user manual (or search online), and try a reset (usually hold the button for 3-5 seconds).
If it persists, that’s our cue to step in with proper diagnostics.
When It’s Time to Call Watson and Sons Services :
If you’ve tried the above and still have no heat/hot water, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re a local, family-run team based right here in Paignton at Yalberton Road Industrial Estate (TQ4 7PJ), proudly serving the South West with honest, quality workmanship. From plumbing and drainage to full heating system support, we handle it all under one roof – no subcontractors, no hassle.
Our approach? Dependable, friendly, and professional – exactly what you want when it’s freezing outside. With years of hands-on experience and a growing collection of 5-star reviews, we’re committed to getting your home warm and comfortable again quickly.
Reach us anytime on 01803 844388 or email info@watsonandsonsservices.co.uk. For urgent winter breakdowns, we’re here to help – because no one should shiver through a South West winter.
