Heating not working properly? 10 quick checks UK homeowners can do before calling an engineer

If your heating isn’t working properly, it’s easy to feel stuck, especially when you don’t know whether it’s a simple control issue or something that needs a professional.

This checklist is designed for UK homeowners. It won’t replace a qualified engineer, but it can help you spot common issues quickly and explain the problem clearly if you do need help.

1) Check the programmer/timer mode

Make sure it’s set to the correct mode:

• Heating ON (or Auto) when you expect it

• Not set to hot water only (where applicable)

2) Check the thermostat setting

If the thermostat is set lower than the current room temperature, the heating may not come on.

If you have a smart thermostat, check you’re not in:

• away mode

• eco mode

• a schedule you forgot about

3) Check whether it’s one radiator or the whole house

• One radiator cold = often a local valve/air/flow issue

• All radiators cold = more likely controls/boiler/system issue

4) Check radiator valves and TRVs

Make sure valves are open and TRVs are turned up in rooms you want heated.

5) Look for obvious draughts and heat loss

Sometimes the heating is working, but the house still feels cold because heat is escaping quickly.

Check:

• external doors

• window seals

• loft hatch

• chimneys (if unused)

6) Check boiler pressure (if your boiler has a gauge)

Low pressure can stop heating working properly on many systems.

If you’re unsure what “normal” looks like for your boiler, use the manufacturer guidance or call an engineer.

7) Listen for unusual noises

Banging, gurgling, or persistent clicking can be a sign something needs attention. Don’t ignore it, especially if performance has changed.

8) Check for leaks or damp patches

Any signs of leaking around radiators, valves, or the boiler should be dealt with promptly.

9) Check if hot water works (where relevant)

If hot water works but heating doesn’t (or vice versa), that’s useful information for diagnosis.

10) Check if the issue is weather-related or timing-related

If the heating “sometimes works”, note:

• time of day it fails

• whether it happens after the system has been off for a while

• whether it’s linked to a schedule change

When to call an engineer

Call a qualified engineer if:

• the boiler shows fault codes you can’t clear

• pressure keeps dropping

• there are leaks

• you smell gas (leave the property and follow official safety guidance)

• the issue is persistent and you’re not confident troubleshooting

Conclusion: start with controls, then move to system checks

Most “heating not working properly” problems start with controls, valves, or pressure, but if it’s not straightforward, professional help is the right call.

If you’re reviewing your home heating setup and want better room-by-room control, Trust Electric Heating can provide a free quote and practical advice based on your property.

Call 0800 5999 109 or email [email protected] for more information or a free quote.

Scott Conor

Chief Technical Officer

In 2012, Scott founded Trust and invented the NEOS electric radiator after finding a gap for a more innovative and cost-effective electric radiator within the industry. He’s the driving force behind Trust’s research and development, using market-leading strategies to keep customers warm.

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Tags: General Guides.