• Sat. Oct 4th, 2025

What to Do If Your Oil Boiler Stops Working

Technician servicing heating boiler in a house. Maintenance concept

If you rely on heating oil Shropshire, homeowners know how disruptive it can be when an oil boiler suddenly stops working in the middle of winter. Before you call out an engineer there are a few simple checks you can carry out yourself. Acting calmly and methodically can save you time money and discomfort

Check the power supply
 Make sure the boiler is switched on at the mains and that no circuit breakers have tripped. Sometimes a simple power cut or blown fuse is the cause of the problem

Look at the thermostat and controls
 Ensure your thermostat is set high enough to call for heat. Double check any timers or programmers in case the settings have been altered or the clock has reset after a power cut

Check the oil level in your tank
 Running out of oil is surprisingly common. Look at your tank gauge and if it is low, order a top-up. If the tank has been emptied, your oil line may need bleeding by a qualified engineer

Press the reset button
 Most modern oil boilers have a reset button, often on the front of the unit. If the boiler has locked out due to a temporary fault, pressing reset may get it going again. If it locks out repeatedly, call an engineer rather than pressing reset multiple times

Inspect for obvious issues
 Look for signs of leaks around the boiler and the oil tank. Listen for unusual noises or smells. Do not attempt repairs yourself but make a note of anything unusual to tell the engineer

Bleed the radiators
 Sometimes air trapped in the system can prevent proper circulation. Bleeding your radiators can help restore heat but be careful if they are hot

Check the external flue and air vents
 Blockages caused by snow, leaves or debris can stop the boiler working correctly. Make sure vents and flues are clear and unobstructed

Call a qualified OFTEC-registered engineer
 If none of the above steps work, contact a professional who is registered with OFTEC. They have the right training and equipment to diagnose and repair oil-fired heating systems safely

Arrange regular servicing
 Annual servicing by a qualified engineer reduces the chance of breakdowns and keeps your boiler running efficiently. It also gives you peace of mind for the colder months

By carrying out these checks and keeping your system maintained, you can often avoid emergency call-outs and ensure your oil boiler works reliably when you need it most