Boiler alert issued to Brits as 'hidden danger' could surface in October

It's getting to that time of year when we're all starting to use our heating more - after all, the temperatures are dropping and most of us are starting to think about using the heating more regularly. However, before you crank up the heat, it may be wise to make a crucial check.

This is because an experthas warned there may be a "silent danger" in your home, and your boiler could actually be unsafe. Even though many of us think it's ticking along nicely and doing its job well - it turns out it may not be the case - and some simple signs can tell you if you're in potential trouble.

Patrick Garner, Gas Safe Engineer at Heatable, recently revealed what people need to know as we head into the autumn months. It comes after he previously shared a common boiler mistake could be costing Brits thousands.

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Your boiler might be an essential and seemingly harmless piece of kit, but missing the warning signs could soon lead to higher bills. Or, at worst, put your family at risk.

Patrick claims that homeowners should trust their senses, adding: "Your boiler will usually tell you when something is wrong."

According to Patrick, you need to look out for three big danger signs at this time of year, which include:

• The smell of gas - even a faint smell could indicate a dangerous leak and run the risk of fire or explosions.
• Dark marks or yellow flames - this means that the flame isn’t burning properly, which can produce carbon monoxide, a highly dangerous and potentially fatal gas.
• Weird noises - banging, whistling and gurgling sounds can be signs your boiler’s components are struggling and may fail if ignored.

Patrick explained the costs aren’t small either. He said: "Leave it and you could be hit with bills totalling hundreds of pounds. Worst-case, you might even need a full replacement. That could set you back up to £4,000."

It’s not just obvious issues you need to look out for. Condensation around the boiler, a pilot light that won’t stay on or family members feeling sick or drowsy are all subtle signs that could point to carbon monoxide exposure.

Patrick continued: "If anyone in your household starts to experience unexplained headaches or dizziness, it shouldn’t be ignored. This could be a serious warning sign from your boiler."

What to do if you spot a problem

Turn the boiler off straight away, open windows to ventilate and - if you smell gas - call the emergency gas line on 0800 111 999. You should also arrange for a Gas Safe engineer to check things over.

Looking ahead, you should consider fitting a carbon monoxide detector and also book an annual boiler service. "A yearly check is the cheapest way to keep your boiler safe, efficient and to stop small problems becoming big, expensive ones," Patrick added.

Simple checks and regular servicing can make all the difference between a safe, efficient boiler and a costly, dangerous breakdown. Naturally, you should always seek professional advice if you experience a problem.

Heatable is a leading online boiler installation and servicing company, helping households across the UK stay warm and safe with expert Gas Safe engineers.