Some of the most common Potterton boiler problems can be resolved without even having to get in touch with a heating engineer and with this guide you'll know which ones. If an engineer is needed, or you’re in any doubt whatsoever always consult one.
Consulting a boiler engineer is made easy with Boiler Guide. Just answer a few questions about your boiler and we’ll put you in contact with up to 3 different heating engineers in your area. Each will offer you their best quote for the repair service you need for free!
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When the radiators around your home aren’t heating up or are only partially heating up then it’s an indication that there’s too much air in the heating system, preventing the hot water from ciculating properly. To get your radiators heating up again, they need bleeding.
How to fix the radiators
By bleeding the radiators that aren’t heating up, you’re allowing the air to escape so that the hot water can circulate. Follow our guide to bleeding a radiator for step-by-step instructions on how to get your radiators working again.
Low boiler pressure (error code E119)
A sudden drop in boiler pressure is a strong indication that there’s a leak somewhere in the system. If this is the case, you should turn off the water supply and contact a Gas Safe registered engineer right away. Having said this, boilers can gradually lose pressure over time and increasing it is something you can do yourself.
How to increase boiler pressure
As well as the E119 error code, you can see if your Potterton boiler has low pressure by looking at the pressure gauge – if you see the needle pointing to anything lower than 1 bar, the system is low on pressure. Ideally, it should be around the 1.5 mark. Increasing boiler pressure is something you can do yourself, we have a guide to increasing boiler pressure that will take you through the process a step at a time.
No hot water
If there's no hot water coming from your taps, then there could be many potential causes but it’s commonly a fault with the diverter valve. The diverter valve is responsible for directing hot water to either the radiators or taps and showers, depending which you want at the time. If it gets stuck then only one of these will be getting the hot water.
How to get the hot water flowing again
You'll need to hire a Gas Safe registered engineer to to either repair the diverter valve or replace it, depending on its condition.
Frozen condensate pipe (error code E133)
Condensate pipes are responsible for transporting acidic water, produced by waste gas, away from the boiler and outside down a drain. Due to being outside, it faces the risk of freezing in the colder months. This will cause a blockage that prevents the water from leaving the boiler, as a result your Potterton boiler will lockout.
How to thaw a frozen condensate pipe
Thawing a frozen condensate pipe can be done yourself without the need for a heating engineer, you can find a guide to thawing out the condensate pipe on Boiler Guide (including a video) but if you feel the slightest bit unsafe get in touch with a Gas Safe registered engineer.
Boiler keeps turning off
If your boiler is experiencing low water pressure, thermostat issues, a lack of water flow due to a closed valve, then your boiler may keep switching off. If you can't put your finger on the issue, it's a good idea to call out a Gas Safe registered engineer.
While some common boiler issues are simple to fix, others may require the help of a professional heating engineer. Don’t wait for a small problem to become a major hassle. Get the best performance from your boiler by speaking with a heating engineer today.
We can help you find up to 3 different heating engineers in your area for free! Each engineer will offer you their best quote for the repair service. And the best part is that you’re under no obligation to accept any. The choice is all yours so that you’re able to get the best service for your boiler.
Which Potterton boiler problems need a heating engineer?
To help you identify the potential causes of some common boiler problems, we've put together the table below so you'll know if you'll need an engineer.
Problem
Possible Cause
Do you need an engineer?
No heat or hot water
Broken diaphragms and airlocks, failure of motorised valves, issues with the thermostat or low water levels
Yes
Leaking and dripping
Most common cause is a broken internal component but it will depend where the water is leaking from
Yes
Banging, whistling or gurgling noises
A common cause is air in the system, alternatively it could be that the water pressure is too low or it's kettling
Yes
Pilot light goes out
Could be a broken thermocouple which is stopping the gas supply
Yes
Losing pressure
Could be a water leak in the system, the pressure relief valve needs replacing or due to recently bleeding radiators
No, unless there’s a leak
Frozen condensate pipe
Your boiler should display a fault code or warning notification (consult your boiler manual)
Yes
Thermostat issues
Thermostat may be turned off or not set to the correct settings (time etc.)
Consider replacing the thermostat
Kettling
Limescale or sludge building up on your boiler's heat exchanger
Yes
Radiators not getting hot
Sludge or air may have built up in the system or there's an unequal distribution of heat
You will need to bleed the radiators which doesn't require an engineer unless you don't feel like carrying out the task yourself.
Boiler keeps switching itself off
Could be low water pressure, a problem with the thermostat or a lack of water flow due to a closed valve, air or the pump not circulating the water in the system properly
Yes
Potterton boiler warranty
The wide range of Potterton boilers offering varying warranty lengths from 1-7 years. Find out even more about what's covered by their warranties with our guide to Potterton warranties.
Once the warranty period has begun, you’ll need to keep the warranty valid by arranging an annual Potterton boiler service, which will also ensure the safe and efficient running of your boiler during its lifetime.
Boiler insurance and ongoing cover
Boiler insurance might be something you want to consider if your boiler warranty has come to an end. It can be simply taken out with your energy supplier but there's absolutely no obligation to do so. The boiler insurances worth making a note of will offer an annual service and safety inspection.
Is it time to replace your Potterton boiler?
An old Potterton boiler could be losing you money, for potential savings of up to £300* a year in a detached home it might be worth considering a new boiler. Use the table below to find out how much you could be saving depending on your current boiler rating and property.
House Type
G (less than 70%)
F (70-74%)
E (74-78%)
D (78-82%)
Semi-detached
£195
£140
£125
£110
Detached
£300
£210
£165
£135
Detached bungalow
£155
£110
£100
£90
Mid-terrace
£170
£120
£105
£95
Mid-floor flat
£80
£55
£50
£45
How to find the best installer to replace a Potterton boiler?
If you've been considering replacing your Potterton boiler with a brand new one then you need to think about who will carry out the installation. Your choice will come down to a national company or a local engineer.
In many cases, a local engineer will offer a very competitive rates and as they're more of than not, a man and his van, you'll be receiving service with a personal touch throughout.
Potentially slightly more on the expensive side, branded manufacturers will be able to offer extra services such as ongoing boiler cover and you'll have big brand protection, a great bonus.
When thinking about who you'd like to carry out the work, always remember to compare up to 3 quotes rather than just going with the first one you receive to give you more chance of getting the perfect deal for you.
If you’re ready to start searching for an engineer near you, just fill in our form below and we’ll put you in touch with up to 3 qualified boiler engineers that we’ve vetted.
