Should I turn it off?+
If water is running out of the case, yes — isolate at the fuse spur and shut off the boiler's water valves.
Do you charge a call-out fee?+
No — fixed diagnostic price agreed on the phone; parts and further labour quoted before we touch anything.
Is a heat-exchanger leak worth fixing?+
Only on newer boilers under warranty. Off warranty and 10+ years old we usually recommend replacement.
Do you carry parts on the van?+
Yes — Worcester, Vaillant, Ideal and Baxi wear parts are stocked so most calls are same-visit fixes.
Warranty on the repair?+
12 months on parts and labour, in writing.
Do you cover Leigh specifically?+
Yes — Leigh (WN7) is 6 miles south-east of the depot and we're on the A579 / A580 East Lancs corridor most weeks. Same-week attendance is standard.
Can I leave a small boiler leak overnight if it's freezing?+
No, it's not advisable. Even a small leak can turn into a much bigger problem due to water freezing and expanding. This can crack pipes, damage electrical components, and escalate the repair cost significantly. It's always best to address any leak, regardless of size, immediately, especially in cold weather.
How do I know if my condensate pipe is frozen and leaking?+
A frozen condensate pipe often leads to the boiler displaying a fault code and stopping. You might also see water pooling externally around the pipe exit, or hear gurgling noises from the boiler. If you suspect this, check the external plastic pipe for ice blockages. It is a common issue in colder weather, particularly in exposed pipe runs.
Will thawing a frozen condensate pipe fix my leak permanently?+
Thawing a frozen condensate pipe is a temporary fix to get your boiler running again. However, if it's freezing regularly, the underlying issue is usually a lack of insulation or an incorrect gradient on the pipework, causing water to sit and freeze. We can assess and recommend a permanent solution, such as re-routing or proper insulation, to prevent future occurrences.
What's the difference between a minor condensate leak and a serious internal leak in winter?+
A condensate leak is typically from the external plastic pipe or trap and is often related to blockages or freezing. While inconvenient, it's generally a more straightforward repair. A serious internal leak, especially from a component like the heat exchanger, involves hot, pressurised system water. This type of leak poses a higher risk of significant damage, electrical shorts, and usually points to a costly repair or replacement. Our diagnostics will distinguish between these.
