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Boiler broken down? Here’s what to do next.

26th September 2025

Introduction

As the temperatures drop and we move towards winter, we once again approach a season that can be highly stressful for our customers. Whether you stay in a rural area in East Lothian, or you are in the heart of Edinburgh City Centre……when the heating dies, it’s stressful. A clear plan, however can keep you warm and in control.

1) Stay safe first ⚠️

  • If you smell gas or suspect carbon monoxide, turn the appliance off, open windows, leave the property, and call us on 0131 660 1480.

  • Don’t try DIY fixes on gas or oil appliances.

2) Warm up — fast 🧣

  • Layer up and close curtains/blinds at dusk.

  • Block draughts with rolled towels or DIY excluders.

  • Use electric heaters sparingly: heat one small, well-insulated room rather than the whole home.

3) Plan the replacement calmly

  • Temporary heat / accommodation: arrange portable electric heaters; if anyone is vulnerable (young children, elderly, medical needs), consider staying with family or booking short-term accommodation for install days.

  • Get quotes from Gas Safe engineers: ask for like-for-like and upgrade options (efficiency gains, controls, warranties).

  • Know the timeline: swaps can be 1 day; moves/type changes may take several. Expect some noise and access to loft/pipework.

  • Finance & support: explore boiler grants (e.g., Warmer Homes Scotland) and installer payment plans if you don’t qualify.

4) Make install day smooth 😮‍💨

  • Clear access to the boiler, gas meter and pipe runs.

  • Put pets in a safe room; have essentials handy (kettle, blankets, hot-water bottles).

  • Keep in touch with your installer for updates and handover (controls demo, warranty registration, benchmark).

5) Prevent the next emergency 🛡️

  • Annual service, system filter, inhibitor, and a working CO alarm.

  • Consider a smart thermostat and frost protection settings.

Book Your Boiler Replacement Quotation in Edinburgh & The Lothians

Don’t wait for a breakdown. If you have any concerns that your boiler might not make it through the winter, get in touch for some expert, friendly and honest advice.

📞 Call us today on 0131 660 1480 or 01368 440123
🌐 Book online: limitlessheating.co.uk

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Gas Safe & Oftec registered engineers

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