This is a common choice for many households and has a number of advantages. ​

For small to medium sized houses, combi boilers can be an ideal choice. But they don’t suit every household.

There are a number of factors to consider when looking at installing a combi boiler. From the location of the boiler to whether it’s right for your household.
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These factors impact the viability of the job, cost of installation and the likely location of the boiler.

1. Gas pipe size

Because a gas boiler has to burn more gas to heat your hot water quickly, it is likely that your existing gas pipe will be too small. To deliver the right volume of gas at the correct pressure, the pipe has to be sized correctly. This means that a new larger bore gas pipe will need to be installed between your gas meter and the position of the new boiler.

This often means running a copper pipe externally round your house, or lifting carpets and  floorboards to install the gas pipe inside.

This is often a factor in determining the best location for your new combi boiler.

2. Number of bathrooms

If you live in larger house or have more than one bathroom, a combi boiler might not be the right option for you.

Most combis are designed to run one hot tap or shower at a time. If you have two showers in the house, using them both at the same time will cause very poor water flow through one or both showers.

3. Your current shower

If you have an electric power shower, this will not work with a combi boiler. These showers have a pump built into the unit in your bathroom and are designed to be fed at low pressure from the tanks in your loft. Putting a combi boiler on these units will quickly cause a leak.

So if you have one of these showers, this will need to be replaced with a standard thermostatic mixer unit. This is likely to mean re-tiling at least a section of your bathroom wall.

If you have a shower pump in your airing cupboard or an electric shower that runs directly off the mains water supply, the change to a combi boiler is much simpler. The electric shower can stay. The remote shower pump simply gets removed and bypassed.

4. Hot and cold water connections

Your old boiler has two water connections – the flow and return pipes for your heating. Your new combi boiler will also have a cold water inlet and hot water outlet.

If you’re fitting the boiler in your kitchen or utility, it is common to run the hot and cold pipes from under or near the sink. For ease of connection, a heating adviser might suggest locating the new boiler in your airing cupboard, where there are already heating, cold water and hot water pipes.

5. Your existing hot water system

We have occasionally been asked about removing an unvented hot water cylinder and replacing it with a combi boiler. Our strong advise here is, don’t do it!

An unvented or pressurised hot water cylinder delivers high pressure water at a good flow rate to multiple outlets.

Removing this cylinder and replacing it with a combi would reduce your hot water capacity significantly.

6. Condensate

Modern boilers produce condensation which runs out of the bottom of the boiler and into a drain. If your existing boiler doesn’t have a condensation outlet then provision needs to be made for the safe disposal of this water.

If you’re moving your boiler to an airing cupboard you can sometimes run the condensation pipe into the bathroom. If this isn’t possible, the water can run into a condensate pump, which sends the waste water into a remote outlet, such as your soil pipe. This would add to the overall cost of the installation.
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Combination boilers are available for use with natural gas, LPG or oil.  Should you be considering changing your system to a combi boiler, it is always best to consult a heating expert before making a decision.

If you live near Peterborough or Stamford, we’d be happy to give you any advice you need.

As homeowners across the UK search for more efficient, cost-effective ways to manage their heating, smart heating controls have rapidly become a popular solution. These intelligent devices let you monitor and adjust your home’s heating from anywhere, helping you save money and reduce your carbon footprint. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the leading smart heating controls available in the UK and provide ratings based on features, ease of use, and overall value.

Smart heating controls are systems that let you control your heating remotely via smartphones, tablets, or computers. They often include scheduling, automation, and zoning features, enabling you to fine-tune your heating to suit your lifestyle. Some even learn your routines and adjust themselves automatically for optimal comfort and efficiency.

Below, we review several popular smart heating controls currently available in the UK market. Each product is rated out of five stars based on performance, user experience, and features.

​Worcester Bosch Easy Control

• Rating: ★★★★☆
• Key Features: communicates directly with Worcester Bosch boilers which allows the boiler to reduce its output according to demand. This makes this device more efficient than standard smart thermostats. Controls heating and hot water
• Overview: The ideal control for your Worcesterr boiler, keeping the boiler at its lowest possible kilowatt output at all times. The disadvantage is that it has not batteries, so needs to be plugged in. This limits the possibility of wall mounting the unit.

Why Isn't Google Nest Included?
Many readers may notice the absence of the Google Nest Learning Thermostat in our recommended list. Although previously a market leader, the Google Nest Thermostat has been discontinued in the UK, making it no longer available for new installations. For this reason, we have omitted it from our selection to ensure this guide only covers products you can currently purchase and install with confidence.

When selecting a smart heating control for your home, consider factors such as compatibility with your existing heating system, the features you value most (e.g. zoning, automation, energy reports), and your budget. If you have a hot water cylinder in your house, you’ll need a dual channel controller. For comprehensive multi-room control, Honeywell Evohome or Tado are excellent options. Hive is a solid choice for those seeking simplicity and reliability.

Can I install my own smart thermostat?

​You can install it yourself if you’re confident with electrical work, especially if the thermostat controls a combi boiler.

If gets more complicated when you’re replacing a programmer for heating and hot water; and even harder with multiple zones. In this case it might be better to get a professional to do it.

Smart heating controls offer a convenient and effective way to improve your home’s comfort and energy efficiency. With a range of options available in the UK, there’s a solution to fit every household’s needs.
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We would be happy to discuss the thermostat that would best suit your home. If you’d like more information, feel free to get it touch.

Your heating is the unsung hero in your home.  It keeps you and your family warm and comfortable all year round, prevents damp and provides you with ample hot water.

While your boiler, radiators and cylinder are quietly doing their jobs, it’s easy to forget about them. It’s when things start to go wrong that you realise how important regular maintenance of your heating system is.
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With this in mind, here are our top 10 ways to make sure your heating runs perfectly all year round.

​An annual boiler service is essential for the health of your heating system. A qualified engineer will check for any potential problems, test vital components, and ensure the the appliance is burning correctly. Regular servicing can extend the lifespan of your boiler and help you avoid the most common breakdowns. We see many avoidable issues with boilers that have been neglected for years.

Modern heating controls, such as programmable or smart thermostats, allow you to heat your home precisely when you need. You can even monitor the temperature of your house while you’re out and about. Upgrading your controls can help you save energy and keep your home at the perfect temperature.

Heating system inhibitor is a chemical solution that helps prevent the build-up of sludge, rust, and scale inside your radiators and pipes. Adding inhibitor protects your system from internal corrosion, which can cause blockages and reduce efficiency. Whenever water is drained from your boiler or radiators, it’s crucial that the inhibitor is replenished.

If you still have an open-vented heating system, meaning the water is fed into the system from a small header tank in your loft, consider converting it to a sealed, pressurised system. Pressurised systems are less prone to air locks, leaks, and contamination, and they typically provide more consistent heating performance.

Even a small leak can lead to significant problems over time, such as low pressure, water damage, and reduced efficiency. Regularly check around your boiler, radiators, and pipework for any signs of dampness or scale build-up and address issues promptly.

If your radiators have cold spots or take a long time to heat up, they may contain trapped air. Bleeding your radiators releases this air, ensuring they heat evenly and efficiently throughout your home.
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You’ll know a radiator needs bleeding if it’s cold at the top and hot only at the bottom.

Balancing your radiators helps ensure that each room in your home receives the right amount of heat. If some radiators are hotter than others, adjusting the valves can help distribute heat more evenly, improving comfort and efficiency.

Insulating exposed pipes, especially in lofts or garages, prevents heat loss and reduces the risk of pipes freezing in cold weather. Pipe insulation is inexpensive, easy to fit, and can make a noticeable difference to your heating system’s performance.

Magnetic filters, capture rust particles that float around your system. Sludge that builds up in your system can block radiators or pipework, damage your pump or clog up the boiler’s heat exchanger, making the heating problematic and inefficient.
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As the sludge is your system is magnetic, a filter containing a powerful magnet fitted into the return pipe prevents the damaging substance entering your boiler. This gets cleaned out every year as part of a thorough boiler service.

Your boiler should operate at the recommended pressure level, usually between 1 and 1.5 bar when cold (check your boiler manual for specifics). Low pressure can cause heating problems, while high pressure can put stress on your system. If the pressure drops or rises unexpectedly, consult a heating engineer.
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Watch our video How to increase pressure on a Vaillant Combi boiler

By following these ten tips, you’ll keep your heating running perfectly, save money on energy bills, and avoid the inconvenience of unexpected breakdowns. If you need professional help, don’t hesitate to contact Fix First Heating. We’re always happy to help keep your home warm and comfortable.

Stay warm and worry-free!

A healthy central heating system is essential for keeping your home warm, energy-efficient, and reliable - especially during the colder months. Over time, your system can accumulate debris in the pipework and radiators, making it unreliable and inefficient. When this happens, you might need a powerflush. Here we explain exactly what powerflushing is, why it matters, and when you might need it.

Powerflushing is a specialist cleaning process used to remove sludge, rust, and debris from your central heating system. Over time, metal components inside radiators and pipework can corrode, creating a thick build-up of magnetite (black sludge). This build-up restricts water flow and reduces heating efficiency.
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During a powerflush, a powerful pump is connected to your system. Water and cleaning chemicals are circulated at high velocity through radiators, pipes, and the boiler to dislodge and flush out contaminants. Once cleaned, the system is refilled with fresh water and inhibitor to help prevent future corrosion.

Powerflushing offers several important benefits:

• Improved heating efficiency - Radiators heat up faster and more evenly
• Lower energy bills - Your boiler doesn’t have to work as hard
• Reduced risk of breakdowns - Less strain on pumps, valves, and other components
• Extended boiler lifespan - Cleaner systems last longer
• Quieter operation - Eliminates banging and kettling
• Helps meet boiler warranty requirements - Many manufacturers recommend or require a clean system

​For homeowners investing in a new boiler, a powerflush is often essential to protect that investment.

You may need a powerflush if you notice any of the following signs:

• Radiators are cold at the bottom but warm at the top
• Some radiators heat up slowly or not at all
• Your boiler is noisy or cycles on and off too quickly
• Dirty or discoloured water when bleeding radiators
• Heating system requires regular bleeding
• Higher than usual energy bills
• Radiators regularly corroding and leaking

​If your system is showing one or more of these symptoms, a professional assessment can confirm whether a powerflush is the right solution.

For most homes, a powerflush is recommended every 5–10 years, depending on:

• The age of your heating system
• Whether inhibitors have been used consistently
• Whether you have a sealed or open-vented system
• Past maintenance history

A powerflush is also strongly advised when:

• Installing a new boiler
• Replacing multiple radiators
• Fixing recurring circulation or blockage issues

​Regular servicing combined with inhibitor top-ups can help extend the time between powerflushes.

You can find the charge for a powerflsuh on a standard system on our prices page. There may be an additional cost depending on:

• The number of radiators
• Size and complexity of the system
• Level of contamination
• Property type

​While a powerflush seems quite an expensive, it often pays for itself through improved efficiency, reduced repair costs, and longer system lifespan.

At Fix First Heating, we can assess your system’s water quality and advise whether your boiler system would benefit from a powerflush.

Click on the link below to book a boiler engineer visit.

At Fix First Heating Ltd, our goal is always to make your life easier, especially when it comes to keeping your boiler safe and reliable. That’s why we put QR codes on every boiler we visit. It sounds technical, but for you, the customer, it means faster reporting, easier access to history, and a smoother way to book engineer visits.

Report an Issue Instantly
Imagine you notice a strange noise or a fault with your boiler. With the QR code label stuck on the boiler, you don’t need to remember a reference number or dig through old paperwork. Simply open your phone’s camera, scan the code, and you’ll be taken to a customer portal webpage that’s specific to your boiler. From there, you can report an issue directly to our system. This means you don’t have to call or send an email – just send a message via the QR code and we’ll pick up the message.

Making repairs easier
Because your boiler is tagged in our system, we already know exactly the model and serial number when you make a request. This makes diagnosing issues and identifying parts quick and easy. That means quicker repair times, less down time and no follow-up questions just to clarify model or past work.

• Convenience: No need to call, email or text. Just scan and book in seconds from your smartphone.
• Speed: Requests get routed straight into our system, reducing delays and making it easier to prioritise your job.
• Clarity: We keep a complete record of all the work carried out on your boiler from the first time we visited. Previous faults, parts replacements and service due dates are all listed.
• Safety & Reliability: Your boiler’s entire service history is recorded, helping us catch issues early and maintain optimal performance.

We can see your boiler’s history at a glance
When we scan your boiler’s QR code, we record all it’s relevant information. This includes the make and model, serial number, installation date and location. Every engineer that visits adds notes, photos, and inspection details to the same digital record.  Any engineer that visits your property can get a full history of the boiler and heating system giving them clarity about what’s been done and when.

When our engineer visits, they’ll scan that same QR code and open the boiler’s digital record via the ServiceM8 app. From there they run through a customised service checklist, complete inspection forms, take photos and log everything in real time. That means when they leave, the digital record is already up to date. You’ll then receive a clean, professional PDF service report after the job is done.
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If any follow-up work is needed, we can flag that immediately on our system, trigger a reminder, or even convert it into a new job so you don’t have to lift a finger.

By using these QR codes, Fix First Heating is putting you, the customer, at the heart of every interaction. We want to make it as easy as possible for you to reach us, to understand the condition of your boiler, and to make sure it’s always properly maintained. No hidden records, no lost inspection notes. Just a clear, modern, reliable way for us to support you and your central heating.

You can of course, still contact us in the usual way, by phone or email. These QR codes just help us to streamline our fault reporting process, making the repair process as smooth as possible.
So next time we visit your property, look out for the QR code appearing on your boiler. Scan it with your phone and see how easy it is to report an issue.

There are a number of factors to consider when buying a combi boiler. Price might be your first consideration. As with other consumer purchases, compromising on quality to reduce the initial cost may mean paying a price later in repairs and inconvenience. Cheap boilers are often difficult to repair and hard to find parts for, which means heating engineers may be reluctant to work on them.

Long-Term Peace of Mind
Long-term peace of mind is important to most boiler buyers. Some boilers offer up to 14 years of parts and labour warranty, meaning that if the boiler goes wrong, the manufacturer will fix it for free.

Minimum Heating Output
Another factor to consider is the minimum heating output. This means that the boiler can be adjusted to match the size of the heating system in your house. A combi boiler with a hot water output of 30 kW doesn’t need to work hard to heat your radiators. By lowering the heating output to match the size of your system, you will be wasting less energy. If your boiler’s minimum heating output can only be lowered to 10 kW, you’ll probably be burning more gas than necessary. The lower this number is, the more efficient your boiler.

What size boiler do I need? (theheatinghub.co.uk)

Hot Water Flow Rate
We also mention hot water flow rate, which is important when choosing your new combi boiler. Generally speaking, the higher the hot water output in kilowatts, the better the flow rate will be.

Let’s take a look at some of the most popular brands and see how they’re regarded by owners and installers. The scores shown against each manufacturer are taken from the Which? or Trustpilot websites, based on feedback from both installers and householders.

Worcester Bosch | Which? Score: 84%
Reviewers overwhelmingly had a great experience with this company. Customers consistently praise the company's service and products, highlighting their professionalism, efficiency, and knowledge of the engineers. Clear communication, helpfulness, and politeness of staff are also frequently noted.

Hot water flow rate: up to 16.4 l/min
Pros:

• Excellent reliability, highly recommended by Which?
• Parts widely available

Cons:

• Doesn’t work to maximum efficiency unless you use their own controllers
• Some repairs difficult

Common faults: Gas valve seizing, fan failure

Vaillant | Which? Score: 81%
Customers frequently commend engineers for efficient, knowledgeable, and friendly service. Reviewers often note individual engineers' professionalism, clear communication, and quick problem-solving.

Hot water flow rate: up to 15.9 l/min
Pros:

• Boilers very popular with users and engineers
• Easy to work on and parts widely available
• Excellent build quality and reliability

Cons:

• Fairly expensive
• Doesn’t work to maximum efficiency unless you use their own controllers

Common faults: Circuit board cutting boiler out, leaking diverter valve

Glowworm | Which? Score: 70%
The majority of reviewers reported highly positive experiences. Customers recognised the efficiency and quiet performance of Glow-worm boilers, frequently noting advantages over previous models or competing brands.

Hot water flow rate: up to 12.5 l/min
Pros:

• Cheaper to buy
• Good reliability

Cons:

• Build and component quality rated lower than other manufacturers
• Doesn’t work to maximum efficiency unless you use their own controllers

Common faults: Leaking diverter valve, circuit board failure

ATAG | Trustpilot Score: 4.8/5
Most reviewers report an excellent experience. Customers frequently commend the quality of products, pointing out efficient and quiet operation. Buyers also note reliability and a noticeable drop in energy costs.

Hot water flow rate: up to 16.1 l/min
Pros:

• High-quality parts
• Long warranty, lifetime warranty on main heat exchanger
• Heat recovery system for hot water adds efficiency

Cons:

• Historic problems with parts availability and aftercare (recently addressed)

Common faults: Unknown

Ideal | Which? Score: 77%
Ideal’s Logic and Vogue ranges run more cheaply than the average model. Most owners are satisfied, with a four-star customer rating.

Flow rate: up to 16 l/min
Pros:

• Very popular brand at an affordable price

Cons:

• Difficult to connect to the most efficient controllers
• Can become unreliable if not properly serviced

Common faults: Sump leaks, ignition problems

Baxi | Which? Score: 74%
Headquartered in Warwick, Baxi is one of the biggest boiler manufacturers in Europe, offering a lot of choice. Users have high satisfaction rates, resulting in a four-star customer score.
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Hot water flow rate: up to 16.4 l/min
Pros:

• Good value

Cons:

• Less well regarded by installers than many other brands
• Doesn’t work to maximum efficiency unless you use their own controllers

Common faults: Fan, burner, circuit board unit failure

A boiler is a long-term investment – and it needs regular care. Many homeowners forget to check what after-care is included, or skip servicing altogether.
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Fix First Tip:
Choose an installer that offers ongoing support, annual servicing, and extended warranties. Ask if they offer service plans or maintenance contracts.

Modern boilers paired with smart controls can significantly improve efficiency and comfort. But many people stick with basic thermostats or don’t install proper heating controls at all.
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Fix First Tip:
Invest in smart or OpenTherm-compatible controls. Options like Nest or Hive offer flexible programming and remote control – but check if they’re compatible with your boiler for full efficiency benefits.

Buying a new boiler doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By avoiding these common mistakes and asking the right questions, you can make a smart, informed choice that keeps your home warm, safe, and efficient for years to come.

At Fix First Heating, we believe in clear advice, honest pricing, and long-term customer care. If you’re ready to explore your options – or just want to ask a few questions – we’re here to help.

Need Help Choosing the Right Boiler? Get in touch with Fix First Heating today for friendly, no-pressure advice.

Why we champion the use of suppliers owned and run by the people of Peterborough.
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For Fix First Heating, supporting our community is the heartbeat of our business. As a trusted heating company serving homes and across our region, we know that every purchasing decision we make has the potential to strengthen the local economy and build a more prosperous future for everyone.

That’s why, at Fix First, we prioritise the use of local businesses. We buy our boiler parts and plumbing materials from smaller, independent merchants. Our marketing and office supplies are bought from nearby suppliers. We are proud members of BNI, an active network of 50 + business owners from around our local area.
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In this blog, we’ll demonstrate how Fix First Heating puts local businesses first: why we choose family-run, independent suppliers over multinational companies, how this decision benefits our customers and our community, and how our BNI membership enables us to support and collaborate with other local enterprises.

When you think of heating, you might picture boilers and radiators, but at Fix First, we see heating as something far greater: a vital service that brings warmth, comfort, and security to families, schools, and businesses. Every project we undertake is rooted in relationships, with our customers, our team, and the wider community.

One of the most profound ways we nurture these relationships is by supporting independent, locally owned businesses. In today’s globalised world, it’s often more convenient to buy from a massive international company, with their vast stocks, and streamlined logistics. But what’s the real cost of choosing these corporate giants over family-run suppliers right here in our region?
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The answer is clear to us at Fix First: local suppliers are the backbone of our community. By investing in them, we help create jobs, stimulate the local economy, and retain wealth within our area. When £1 is spent in our local community, it stays in the local community. It’s not used to boost the portfolio of international investors. We believe that when local businesses succeed, we all benefit.

At Fix First Heating, most of our suppliers are local, family-owned businesses. From the copper pipes and boilers, to leaflet printing and graphic design, we source as much as possible from independents who are invested in our community’s future.

Here’s what that looks like in practice:
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• Personal Relationships: We know our suppliers by name. We visit their premises, shake their hands, and exchange stories about our families and our plans for the future. These aren’t faceless corporations; they’re our neighbours, friends, and partners.
• Reliability and Accountability: Family-owned businesses depend on their reputation. When we work with local suppliers, we know we’re getting more than just the product. We’re getting quality, service, and accountability. If an issue arises, there’s no call centre halfway around the world; there’s a direct line to someone who genuinely cares.
• Quality and Craftsmanship: Local suppliers take pride in their products because their name is on the line. This pride translates into better materials, superior craftsmanship, and greater attention to detail. Our customers benefit from the kind of quality that only a close-knit, dedicated team can deliver.
• Unique Solutions: Multinational corporations might offer one-size-fits-all solutions, but local businesses are nimble and responsive. Our suppliers understand the distinct challenges of our region and can adapt to our needs, ensuring we always have the right materials and support for any project, no matter how unique.
• Keeping Money in the Community: Every pound we spend with a local business circulates within our economy, creating jobs, boosting public services, and helping other small businesses. By working with local organisations, we are contributing thriving community.

Let’s be clear: multinational corporations have their place in the modern economy. They can offer scale, consistency, and sometimes lower prices. But at what cost?

If we don’t use our local suppliers, they could disappear from our high streets and industrial areas, to be replaced by faceless multinationals with no interest in the preservation of local communities.

When local merchants are bought out by multinational companies, the priorities often shift away from the community. Decision-making moves to distant head offices. Jobs are consolidated or lost. Profits are extracted and sent far away, instead of being reinvested locally. The unique character of our high streets fades, replaced by a sea of identical brands.
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At Fix First Heating, we believe there’s a better way. By choosing local, family-owned businesses as our primary suppliers, we keep our region vibrant, diverse, and resilient. We maintain real relationships, and we know that our success is intertwined with the success of our partners.

 We use a number of local merchants to supply our boilers, spare parts, heating components and plumbing materials. These are our first choice for all heating projects:
 
PHC Supplies

PHC Supplies are a local, independently run business, priding themselves on their excellent reputation and customer service.

“We always ensure the customer’s experience is our top priority, whilst providing the right stock at the right price.”

BK Supplies – Bathroom Showroom and Design Service in Peterborough

After many years’ experience of working in the plumbing and bathroom industry for other companies Barry and Kevin (father and son duo) wanted to ‘give it a go’ for themselves – and BK Supplies was born.

Originally opened as a trade counter in October 2006; they could have only dreamed of how the business would grow.

James Hargreaves – Peterborough Plumbing Supplies

They have a team of local and friendly staff at our Peterborough Plumbing Supplies Branch located on Harvest Way, Fengate.

James Hargreaves extends beyond the tap, boiler, shower or any item that our customers need, to include the advice, understanding and assurance that comes with buying from people who know their stuff. Product Experts!

So what does that mean for our community?

BNI is built on the principle of “Givers Gain”, the idea that by helping others succeed, we create more opportunities for everyone. Through our membership, we connect with dozens of other local businesses: tradespeople, service providers, retailers, and professionals from every walk of life.
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• Referrals and Recommendations: We actively refer our customers to other trusted local businesses, and in turn, receive referrals from our network. This creates a virtuous cycle of support that helps keep money and jobs in our region.
• Shared Learning: Through BNI, we participate in workshops and share best practices with our peers. This constant exchange of ideas helps us innovate and provide even better service to our customers.
• Community Initiatives: BNI groups often organise charitable events, fundraisers, and volunteer projects. We proudly support our local chapter’s charity member, Peterborough Rape Crisis Care Group (PRCCG) Homepage - Peterborough Rape Crisis Care Group
• Mentoring and Growth: As seasoned professionals, we’re able to mentor new businesses joining our BNI group, helping them navigate the challenges of growth and establishing their place in the local economy. We benefit from their fresh energy and ideas, and they benefit from our experience and support.

How does our commitment to local businesses impact you, the customer? In more ways than you might think.
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• Faster Response Times: When you need a repair or installation, time is of the essence. By sourcing from local suppliers, we avoid supply chain delays and have greater flexibility to respond quickly to your needs.
• Better Service: Local suppliers are invested in our relationship and, by extension, in your satisfaction. If a part isn’t right or something goes wrong, we can sort it out quickly, with people we trust.
• Ethical Choices: Many customers today are looking for ways to make a positive impact with their purchasing decisions. By choosing Fix First Heating, you’re supporting a business that prioritises community wellbeing and sustainability in every choice it makes.
• Transparent Pricing: While multinationals may advertise lower costs, hidden fees and fluctuating pricing can quickly add up. Our local suppliers offer transparent, fair pricing, meaning you know exactly what you’re paying for, and where your money is going.

Our mission at Fix First Heating is about more than warmth and comfort. We want our community to thrive, not just today but for generations to come. We provide training opportunities for young people coming into our industry, which boosts the skills base around our city.
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By supporting local businesses, we’re helping to create a vibrant future where young people can find meaningful work, where family businesses can continue their traditions, and where our town remains a source of pride for everyone who calls it home.

Looking Ahead: New Initiatives and Ongoing Commitment

As we grow, we’re constantly looking for new ways to deepen our support for local businesses.

We’re committed to transparency: if you ever want to know where your parts come from, just ask. We’re proud to share the stories behind every project.

How You Can Support Local Businesses With Us

Supporting local isn’t just something Fix First Heating does, it’s something we invite our customers and community to be a part of. Here’s how you can join us:

• Choose local contractors and suppliers for your home or business needs.
• Participate in community events, trade fairs, and open days that showcase local talent.
• Share your experiences with friends and family, and leave reviews for the businesses you love.
• Ask questions about where your products and services come from – transparency helps everyone make informed, ethical choices.
• Consider joining local business networks like BNI to expand your own connections and support others.

At Fix First Heating, supporting local businesses isn’t just a business strategy. It’s a core part of who we are. We believe that by choosing to work with independent, family-owned suppliers, by engaging actively with our BNI network, and by always putting people before profit, we can make a meaningful difference.

The next time you call Fix First Heating, know that you’re not just getting top-quality heating services. You’re helping your community thrive. Our promise to you is simple: we’ll keep putting local businesses first, building relationships that last, and delivering warmth you can count on, season after season.

If you’d like to learn more about our local partners or find out how you can get involved, please contact us directly or visit our website. Together, we can keep our community strong.

​Thank you for choosing Fix First Heating. Where supporting local is always our first priority.

Loss of pressure on your boiler or heating system has only one cause: you have a leak.

The regularity of the pressure loss indicates the size of the leak. If you’re topping your pressure up hourly, the leak is significant. If it’s only every few weeks, it’s minimal.
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You can increase the pressure yourself on your boiler or heating system. But, if you have to do this regularly, there’s a problem that needs attention.

​A pressurised heating system has to be maintained at between 1-1.5 bar. If the pressure drops too low, it affects the performance of your heating.

You may find any of the following symptoms:

• The radiators don’t heat up properly: perhaps they are cold at the top, don’t heat up at all, or they are cooler than usual.
• The system may become louder as your heating pump may be struggling to circulate water effectively.
• The boiler may lock itself out and display a fault code.
• You may notice the boiler turning itself off and on more often than usual. This is called cycling and is caused by poor water flow through the boiler’s heat exchanger.

In this video we demonstrate how to put more pressure into your heating system using the filling taps below the boiler.

The pressure should sit between 1 – 1.5 bar. If the pressure falls below 1 bar, it needs topping up. If the pressure has risen above 2 bar, that’s a different issue that needs looking at.

The pressure is increased by putting water from your mains cold water pipe into the heating circuit. This is done from a filling device that will usually be in the airing cupboard or just below your boiler.

Combi boilers tend to have built-in filling devices. You should find the taps below the boiler on the right-hand side. There will be two taps that need to be gently opened up until the pressure returns to a normal level.

Each boiler has its own type of filling device. Check out our help videos for your boiler manufacturer: Ideal and Baxi/Potterton

On a system with a hot water cylinder, you’ll most likely find the filling loop in the airing cupboard. This will be a flexible braided silver hose between two valves that both need to be opened to pass mains water into the heating system.

Once or twice a year is about normal. If you’re doing it more often than this, especially during the winter months, when your heating is getting used often, then the boiler may need attention.

If you have to re-pressurise your boiler every day during the winter months, you probably have a deflated expansion vessel.

The pressure in your heating is regulated by a tank of compressed air somewhere on the system. Just like a car tyre, this needs regularly checking for the correct pressure. If the expansion vessel is empty, the pressure in your heating will start to fluctuate.

The pressure will rise as the water heats. If it gets to 3 bar, a safety valve opens, dumping pressure to a safe location. Once the water cools and contracts, the pressure will drop as low as 0 bar.
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Continuing to top your pressure up without dealing with the fault will cause damage to your system. Constantly adding fresh, oxygenated water into radiators will cause rust and corrosion. Get the help of a heating engineer as soon as possible if you are experiencing this problem.

Usually, a leak is easy to find. Stains on carpets of flooring will be an obvious sign. There may be a leak on one of your radiators or the valves that connect to it.

Before calling a heating engineer, check all the radiators in your house for signs of rust or staining. Look under and around your boiler to see if there are any connections becoming scaled or grimy.

It’s also worth checking outside your house for the pressure-relief pipe. If this is dripping it could go unnoticed, especially if it’s located somewhere inconspicuous.

Components inside the boiler that commonly leak are the pressure relief valve or automatic air vent. These can be easily changed by a qualified heating engineer.

In some case the leak is on the heating pipework. This may be visible pipework leading to radiators, or hidden behind walls or above ceilings.
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When heating pipework runs under solid floors, this can be expensive and very disruptive to repair. Your heating engineer may advise you to seek advice from a specialist leak detection company and to consult your insurance company.

If the leak is small and inaccessible, your heating engineer may recommend adding a leak sealing solution, such as Fernox F4, into the system. This uses a chemical to seal pinholes in the heating pipework without causing blockages.

When the leak is visible it can be repaired by replacing the faulty component. This might mean replacing a radiator valve, a boiler component, or renewing a section of your heating pipework.

It’s a good idea to seek help from your local reputable heating company before the problem gets worse.

Can’t find the leak on your system or struggling to get the help you need to fix it?

Ask your question in the box below and we’ll get back to you with our advice.

We’ve fixed heating in Peterborough for many years and know how to diagnose a fault on your boiler.

Often, your boiler will give you information about the problem. Some boilers have display screens which give you a fault code. By looking in the manufacturer literature, you can determine the nature of the fault.

For example, an Ideal Logic boiler showing the code L2, as shown in the video, has an ignition problem. This could be caused by an interruption in the gas supply, a faulty gas valve, broken ignition electrodes or a blocked condensate trap.

Other boilers indicate their faults by flashing lights in different sequences. A Worcester Ri uses its own form of morse code, flashing fast or slow to communicate the problem.

Your boiler may have locked out because there is no circulation in your heating system. If your heating pump has failed, the boiler may overheat, or turn itself off because its temperature sensor readings are not as expected. Many Glowworm and Vaillant boilers show a fault of F22 if there is poor circulation. This may be caused by a faulty circulator pump, some sort of restriction or blockage in the heating pipes, or an airlock.

Sometimes your boiler will indicate it has a problem with a particular component. If an electrical component has failed, such as the PCB (Printed Circuit Board) the boiler sometimes behaves in unusual ways, maybe running the fan sporadically or repeatedly trying to light the burner. A faulty circuit board on the Glowworm xi range often appears as a blank display screen.

On older boilers without these sophisticated diagnostic systems, a fault is determined by following the ignition sequence. This sequence usually starts with running the fan. If you don’t hear the fan running, or if you can hear a grinding or buzzing noise, the fan may have burned out and needs replacing.

You can do some basic fault finding yourself by checking the boiler for faults and noises. If you have an ignition problem, first check other gas appliances in your house to ensure your gas supply is working. You can even fix some problems yourself in some cases without calling out a heating engineer. If your boiler is showing a low pressure fault, all you need to do is top the pressure up. There will be a filling device on or near your boiler, or in your airing cupboard. You can often reset the boiler to get it going again. It’s a good idea to record the fault code first, as this information is useful for your heating engineer when diagnosing the fault.

You must never work on your own boiler unless you are qualified. However, having some background information on fault codes, noise or strange behaviour on your boiler will be useful when you call your local qualified heating engineers.