Boiler Ignition Fault?

If you have a boiler in your home and it's recently been refusing to ignite you may be wondering what the issue is. Boiler issues can be difficult to diagnose and repair but understanding the basics of why your boiler won't ignite can help you take the necessary steps to get it back up and running again. In this article we'll help you identify what might be causing your boiler to not ignite and provide tips for getting it back running again.

Faulty Thermostat Issues

A faulty thermostat can cause boiler ignition failure. The thermostat is responsible for regulating the temperature of the boiler and if it is not working properly it can lead to a fault in the boiler’s ignition process. Common issues include:

• The thermostat not being set correctly.
• The thermostat being stuck in a particular setting.
• The thermostat being broken or damaged.
• The thermostat not responding to changes in temperature.

If you suspect that your boiler’s ignition failure could be due to a faulty thermostat then it is important to get it checked out by a qualified engineer as soon as possible.

Frozen Condensate Pipe

This happens when the condensate pipe which carries away water from the boiler gets too cold and freezes. This can be caused by a combination of factors including cold weather, poor insulation or a lack of heat in the area around the pipe.

When a condensate pipe freezes it blocks off the flow of water away from the boiler. This can cause a pressure build-up in the system and lead to ignition failure. If your boiler struggles to ignite it’s important to check if this is the cause of your problem.

How to Check for a Frozen Condensate Pipe

The best way to check for a frozen condensate pipe is to inspect it visually. Look for any ice or frost on or near the pipe. If you see any then it’s likely that your condensate pipe is frozen and needs to be thawed out before your boiler will start working again.

How to Thaw Out a Frozen Condensate Pipe

Once you’ve identified that your condensate pipe is frozen there are a few ways you can go about thawing it out. The easiest way is to use a hair dryer or heat gun and point it at the affected area. You could also use a hot water bottle or heating pad placed against the pipe. Make sure not to put too much heat on the pipe all at once as this could damage it.

Preventing Frozen Condensate Pipes

To help prevent your condensate pipes from freezing up again in future, make sure they are properly insulated with foam lagging or other appropriate materials. You should also ensure that your boiler is situated in an area where there is adequate warmth and ventilation.

Tripped Fuse Box

A fuse box, also known as a consumer unit or distribution board is a cabinet that contains fuses and circuit breakers that are responsible for controlling the electrical current in your home. When too much electricity passes through the circuit an overload can occur which causes the circuit breaker to trip and turn off the power.

If your boiler has difficulty starting due to an overload it is likely that the fuse box needs to be reset. To reset your fuse box first ensure that all appliances are switched off in the house and then locate your fuse box. It is usually located near the main entrance of your home or in a cupboard. Once located open the door and look for a switch labeled “Reset” or “Trip”. Push this switch in and then switch on all of your appliances one by one.

Blocked Burner

One of the most common causes of boiler ignition failure is a blocked burner. A blocked burner can prevent fuel from reaching the boiler's combustion chamber leading to an inability to ignite.

Signs of a Blocked Burner

• The boiler fails to ignite.
• Unusual or loud noises coming from the boiler.
• An increase in fuel consumption.
• An increase in soot deposits.
• A strong smell of oil or gas near the boiler.

The engineer may advise replacing the burner if it is damaged. This may not be a low-cost solution however it will be more economical than purchasing a new boiler. It could be worth considering replacing the boiler if its age or lack of warranty makes it prone to needing repairs frequently.

Trapped Air in Your Radiators

The presence of air in the system can prevent your boiler from reaching the correct temperature for ignition and will cause it to fail.

How Does Trapped Air Occur?

Air can become trapped in your radiators due to a variety of reasons. These include:

• Water levels dropping too low, leaving a pocket of air between the water and the radiator components;
• Leaks or blockages in the system that allow air to enter;
• Inadequate bleeding or venting of radiators.

How To Remove Trapped Air From Your Radiators?

Removing trapped air from your radiators is relatively straightforward and you can do it yourself with a few simple tools. Here's how:

1. Locate the bleed valve:
   This is typically found at the top corner of each radiator.
2. Attach a bleed key:
   This is a small L-shaped tool which fits over the bleed valve.
3. Turn the key anti-clockwise:
   This will open up the valve and allow any trapped air to escape.
4. Close off the valve when done bleeding:
   Once you hear no more hissing sound and only water coming out close off the valve by turning clockwise.

You can read more information in our complete guide to bleeding radiators.

Insufficient Gas Pressure

Insufficient gas pressure is one of the most common causes of boiler ignition failure. Low gas pressure can prevent the flame from igniting or it can cause it to be too weak to stay lit. This can happen when the gas supply pressure is too low or if there are restrictions in the gas line that reduce the flow.

Signs of Insufficient Gas Pressure

• Boiler doesn’t ignite
• Weak flame
• Flame goes out after a few seconds

Troubleshooting Insufficient Gas Pressure

• Check your gas meter to make sure that you have sufficient gas supply.
• Check for blockages in your gas line.
• If necessary contact a qualified technician to check the pressure regulator and adjust it as needed.

A Fault with the Fan

The fan is an integral part of the boiler system and a fault with it can cause the boiler to fail to ignite. Common causes of problems with the fan include:

• Dirty or faulty fan blades - If the fan blades are dirty or damaged they will be unable to move air efficiently through the system leading to ignition failure.
• Faulty wiring - If the wiring in the fan is faulty it may be preventing it from running.
• Loose connections - Poorly connected wiring can cause the fan not to run properly leading to ignition failure.

To remedy any of these issues it is best to call a qualified heating engineer who can inspect and repair the system. They will be able to check for any faults with the fan and ensure that everything is working as it should.

Clogged Air Filter

This occurs when the air filter becomes blocked with dirt and debris preventing the necessary airflow needed for proper combustion. The lack of air intake causes the boiler to not ignite or run properly.

Signs of Clogged Air Filter

• Unusual noises coming from the boiler
• Boiler takes longer than normal to ignite
• Flame not burning properly or is extinguished
• Foul odours coming from the boiler
• Insufficient heat production

How to Fix a Clogged Air Filter

If you suspect that your air filter is clogged it’s important to inspect and replace it as soon as possible. To do this:

• Shut off the gas supply to the boiler.
• Remove the access panel and locate the air filter.
• Remove the air filter and inspect it for any dirt or debris.
• Replace the air filter with a new one.
• Replace the access panel and turn on the gas supply.

Remember that it’s important to regularly clean or replace your air filters to ensure proper performance and efficiency of your boiler. Doing so will help prevent further issues and keep your heating system running smoothly.

Thermocouple Failure

Thermocouples are a common cause of boiler ignition failure as they are the main tool used to detect whether a flame is present in the boiler. If the thermocouple has failed then it can prevent the boiler from lighting or cause it to cut out unexpectedly.

Signs of Thermocouple Failure

• The pilot light is lit but the main burner will not ignite
• The pilot light keeps going out unexpectedly
• The pilot light won't stay lit for more than a few seconds
• The burner will ignite but then cut out unexpectedly

Causes of Thermocouple Failure

• Dirt and debris clogging up the thermocouple
• Corrosion of the thermocouple due to high temperatures or humidity
• Age-related wear and tear on the thermocouple
• Improper installation of the thermocouple