Why does my boiler pilot light go out?

Frustrated by your boiler’s pilot light that keeps turning off? The boiler is one of the most important elements of the home, providing us with warmth and hot water, and the moment it stops working is the moment we ask ourselves how could we ever live without it?

This month A&D Plumbing Services are here to run through some of the reasons why your pilot light might be cutting out.

The problems your boiler could be facing

If your boiler pilot light has gone out chances are…

There’s a blockage in your boiler’s flue.

Why is this a problem? If the flue is blocked, the burnt gases will be unable to escape and the built-up gases inside will extinguish the burning flame.

A draught that is turning off your pilot light.

Draughts should not be able to blow out your pilot light, so call a Gas Safe-registered professional, who will be able to solve your problem.

Why does this happen? If there’s a back-draught that finds its way down the flue of the boiler, the pilot light can be blown out.

If you cannot start or light your boiler?

As stated in the manual – you should call a registered Gas Safe engineer to solve the problem. Never attempt to fix a gas boiler yourself.

How do I know if it’s just my boiler that’s faulty?

There’s a chance that your boiler was either faulty to begin with or has developed a fault over time. If you can’t find any obvious signs – your best bet is to call a competent expert who will be able to repair, replace or install a new boiler.

Is there anything I can do?

Try resetting the boiler using the controls found on the outside of the unit.

As Gas Safe registered engineers, we are able to install, maintain and repair any boiler – no matter what the make, model or age. So for impartial, expert advice and quick, efficient boiler services, call A&D Plumbing Services today. Based in Colchester, we operate throughout Cambridge, Brentwood, Chelmsford, Royston, Madlon, Southend, Felixstowe, Bury St Edmunds, Haverhill, Ipswich, Basildon, Braintree, Harlow, Newmarket, Sudbury and beyond.

(Please don’t take off the boiler cover or try fixing any exposed wires and do not place any naked flames near the system. It’s important to always use an approved Gas Safe registered plumber, such as A&D Plumbing Services.).