Get answers to the questions we’re asked most often about heating, plumbing and boilers.
The team at Gas Tech Heating is always happy to help.
Boiler FAQs
Why do I need to get my boiler serviced?
Getting your boiler serviced regularly will ensure it’s running efficiently and will also ensure it’s safe. A faulty boiler can be dangerous. Do be aware that many warranties require regular boiler servicing too, usually annually.
How long will a boiler service take?
Your service will take between one and two hours, depending on your chosen level of service.
My boiler is old, can you still service it?
Yes – your boiler will probably be out of warranty but a service is still important to keep it working safely and efficiently.
Which boiler brands do you install?
We install all boiler brands and will be happy to talk to you about the best options for you.
Will my new boiler come with a warranty?
Yes. Different brands come with different lengths of warranty – we can tell you more about this. Through our professional memberships, we can also offer longer warranties on certain brands and will be happy to explain the benefits further.
Plumbing and heating FAQs
Can you complete small jobs like fixing a tap?
Yes, absolutely! Please get in touch about your general plumbing repairs.
Why are my radiators heating unevenly?
There may be some air or a blockage in the system. If this happens regularly, you could benefit from a central heating powerflush. Your heating system may also need balancing as well.
How can I control my boiler?
A boiler is usually controlled by a thermostat or a programmable device, which will either be hard wired or wireless. We can install smart controls and thermostats for you.
Will you tell me when my boiler service/gas safety inspection is due?
Yes – you will be sent a reminder via email.
Can you install my washing machine or dishwasher?
Yes we can. Just let us know what you need.
General FAQs
Do you offer a warranty on your work?
We offer a 12-month workmanship warranty.
Are you fully insured?
Yes – we have both public liablity and employer’s liability insurance.
How is payment made?
You can pay by card on the day, or alternatively we will send an invoice that’s due for payment within 24 hours. For larger projects e.g. full bathroom installations, a deposit will be required before any work can be started.
Do you charge an initial call out fee?
Yes, there will be a minimum of one hour’s charge for any booking or callout.
How long until I receive a written quote?
24-48 hours. We’ll get back to you quickly so that you can make a decision.
How will I know when you’re on your way?
When booking, you will be given a four-hour window. You will then get a text message when an engineer is on their way with an estimated time of arrival.
Top tips for dealing with common issues
How do I turn the water off in my home?
Turn the water off from the mains stopcock, which can usually be found underneath the kitchen sink although the location can vary depending on the system. There should also be a stop valve located outside, near to the property’s entrance.
What should I do if I have a burst pipe?
Isolate the water, turn off the water, and call us ASAP.
What should I do if I can smell gas?
Isolate the gas at the emergency control valve (ECV) located at the gas meter, open all windows and doors and call 0800 111 999 (the local gas emergency number).
What should I do if my toilet is blocked?
Try to plunge the toilet first. If you have no luck, contact us.
How do I repressurise my boiler?
Re-pressurising your boiler will let more water enter from the water mains supply through a filling loop. We always recommend consulting a Gas Safe engineer – re-pressurising requires the following steps and is quite an involved process:
- The boiler is switched off and allowed to cool
- Both valves are opened to allow cold mains water in
- The pressure gauge needs to reach 1.5 bar
- The valves are closed and the boiler is switched back on (a reset may be needed)
You should always refer to your manufacturer’s instructions and, if you are unsure, should contact qualified heating engineers like Gas Tech Heating to complete the process on your behalf.
How do I bleed my radiators?
Here’s how to bleed your radiators:
- Switch the heating off
- Always carry out these steps when the heating is cold
- Use a radiator key to turn the valve at the top of the radiator – turn it anticlockwise
- As you release the valve, you will hear a hissing noise as air comes out
- Water will usually come out so be prepared to catch it
- Once the hissing stops, tighten the valve quickly
- Switch the heating back on and check the pressure – this may need to be increased
- Switch the central heating on and ensure radiators are heating up evenly
If you are unsure at any stage, please contact qualified heating engineers such as Gas Tech Heating.
How do I know if I have a pipe leak?
There will be signs of water damage. Contact us and we can check it out for you.
How do I know if I have a gas leak?
You will be able to smell the gas – this is an emergency and you should call 0800 111 999. Please also isolate the gas at the emergency control valve (ECV) by the meter.
Why is my boiler making lots of noise?
There could be a number of reasons, so it’s always best to consult a Gas Safe engineer to run full diagnostic tests.
Contact Gas Tech Heating
Got another question? Talk to us – we’re experienced plumbers, boiler engineers and heating engineers in Hemel Hempstead.
Call Gas Tech Heating on 01442 832202 or email info@gastechheatingltd.co.uk and we’ll arrange a convenient appointment.