During cold spells, your boiler may stop working because the plastic pipe that carries condensation water from the boiler to the outside (the condensate pipe) can freeze. This is one of the most common causes of winter breakdowns.
How to spot if your condensate pipe is frozen:
- Your boiler may display a fault code and stop operating.
- You may hear a gurgling sound from the boiler.
- Water may be backing up inside the boiler or dripping near the external pipe.
What you can do safely:
- Locate the pipe. It is usually a white or grey plastic pipe that runs from your boiler to an outside wall.
- Thaw the pipe by carefully pouring warm (not boiling) water over the external section. Alternatively, you can apply a hot water bottle or heat pack.
- Once thawed, reset your boiler and it should restart.
If this does not work:
Please contact us on 01294 468113 and we will arrange for an engineer to attend.
Please note: Frozen condensate issues are caused by weather conditions and are not included in Home Plans by James Frew Gas Sure contract cover.
Engineer visits may therefore be chargeable unless otherwise advised.
Preventing future problems:
- Ensure your condensate pipe is properly insulated.
- Where possible, pipes should be run internally or with minimal external exposure.
- Ask our engineer about CondenseSure devices or a condensate pump upgrade – these can help protect your boiler from future winter failures.
We hope this advice helps you keep your boiler running smoothly during the winter months.
Watch the short video below on how to defrost your condensate pipe, or read our specialist advice on:
