Can Electricians Fix Boilers? Specialist Guide

Electricians are trained to work with electrical systems, but boiler repairs are a different matter. In the UK, only Gas Safe registered engineers are legally allowed to work on gas boilers. Electricians cannot repair or service the gas-related components of a boiler, such as the burner, heat exchanger, or gas valves.

However, some parts of a boiler rely on electrical components, and electricians can work on those. If there’s an issue with the power supply, wiring, or the boiler’s control panel, an electrician may be able to help. But when it comes to gas-related faults or major breakdowns, you must call a Gas Safe engineer.

When a Boiler Needs Repair

A faulty boiler can cause serious problems, from cold homes to safety risks. Here are some signs that your boiler needs attention:

No heating or hot water – Could be a pressure issue, thermostat problem, or broken component.
Strange noises – Banging, whistling, or gurgling may mean trapped air, low water pressure, or limescale buildup.
Leaks or drips – Water around the boiler suggests a faulty seal, valve, or internal component.
Frequent shutdowns – Could be caused by low pressure, overheating, or a faulty sensor.
Pilot light problems – A flickering or yellow flame instead of a steady blue one can indicate a gas supply issue.
High energy bills – An inefficient boiler could be working harder than necessary to heat your home.

If your boiler stops working, check basic troubleshooting steps like resetting it, checking for power supply issues, or ensuring the thermostat is set correctly. If the problem persists, you’ll need a qualified professional.

Who is Qualified to Fix Boilers?

Boiler repairs must be done by the right professional to ensure safety and compliance with UK laws. Here’s who can work on different aspects of a boiler:

Professional	What They Can Do
Gas Safe Engineer	Repairs gas-related faults, installs new boilers, services and maintains gas appliances. Legally required for any work involving gas.
Electrician	Repairs electrical components such as wiring, fuses, thermostats, and control panels. Cannot touch any gas parts.

To legally work on a gas boiler, an engineer must be registered with the Gas Safe Register. You can check if a tradesperson is registered by searching their name or business on the Gas Safe website.

If someone who isn’t Gas Safe registered attempts to fix a boiler, they are breaking the law and putting your safety at risk.

What Work Can an Electrician Do on a Boiler?

Although electricians cannot fix gas-related issues, they can repair or replace certain electrical components inside a boiler. These include:

Wiring faults – If the boiler isn’t receiving power, an electrician can check and repair the wiring.
Fuses and circuit breakers – If the boiler keeps tripping the fuse box, an electrician can diagnose the cause.
Thermostat issues – If the thermostat isn’t working properly, they can repair or replace it.
Control panels and PCB (Printed Circuit Board) faults – The boiler’s electronic control system may need troubleshooting.
Smart heating controls – Installation and setup of smart thermostats like Tado, Nest or Hive.

If your boiler is completely failing or showing a gas-related fault, such as a pilot light issue, gas smell, or a pressure problem, an electrician cannot help. You will need a Gas Safe engineer for those repairs.

How to Check if a Boiler is Safe to Use

A faulty boiler can be dangerous, especially if it leaks carbon monoxide (CO). Here’s how to check if your boiler is safe:

Warning Signs of an Unsafe Boiler

A yellow or flickering pilot light – The flame should always be blue. A yellow flame could mean incomplete combustion.
Soot marks or black stains – Around the boiler or on nearby walls can indicate a CO leak.
Condensation or excessive moisture – Unusual dampness around the boiler could suggest ventilation problems.
Strange smells – While CO itself is odourless, a burning or unusual smell from the boiler could signal a problem.
Frequent headaches, nausea, or dizziness – Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning can start subtly. If you feel better when away from home, suspect CO exposure.

Carbon Monoxide Risks and How to Stay Safe

Carbon monoxide is deadly. It has no smell or taste, making it hard to detect without a carbon monoxide alarm.

Install a CO detector near your boiler and check it regularly.
If the alarm beeps, turn off the boiler, open windows, and leave the house immediately.
Call the emergency gas number (0800 111 999) and don’t go back inside until it’s safe.

If you suspect your boiler is leaking CO, do not attempt to fix it yourself. Call a Gas Safe engineer straight away.

What to Do If Your Boiler Stops Working

Before calling a professional, check these quick troubleshooting steps:

1. Check for Power Supply Issues

Make sure the boiler switch is on and the fuse hasn’t tripped.
If the boiler has a digital display and it’s blank, it may have lost power. Try resetting it.

2. Check the Thermostat and Timer

Ensure the thermostat is set above room temperature.
If the timer or heating schedule has changed (especially after a power cut), reset it.

3. Check the Boiler Pressure

A pressure gauge below 1 bar means low pressure, which can stop the boiler from working.
Some boilers allow you to top up the pressure yourself, but if you're unsure, call a professional.

4. Look for Error Codes or Warning Lights

Modern boilers display error codes. Check the manual or manufacturer’s website to understand what it means.

5. Check for a Frozen Condensate Pipe (In Winter)

If it’s below freezing, the external condensate pipe might be frozen, causing a blockage.
Try pouring warm (not boiling) water over it to thaw it.

When to Call a Professional

If your boiler still isn’t working after these checks, call a Gas Safe engineer. Do not attempt to fix gas-related components yourself.

Do You Need a Gas Safe Engineer?

If your boiler has a gas-related issue, you must hire a Gas Safe registered engineer. This is a legal requirement in the UK.

What Only a Gas Safe Engineer Can Do

Repair gas leaks – If you smell gas, turn off the boiler and call 0800 111 999.
Fix boiler pressure problems – Issues related to the gas valve or heat exchanger need professional repair.
Replace internal boiler parts – If your boiler needs a new burner, fan, or heat exchanger, only a Gas Safe engineer can do it.
Carry out annual servicing – A yearly boiler service is needed to keep warranties valid and prevent breakdowns.

How to Check If an Engineer Is Gas Safe Registered

Ask for their Gas Safe ID card – It will show their registration number and what work they are qualified to do.
Search their details on the Gas Safe Register website before booking them.

Hiring someone who isn’t Gas Safe registered to work on your boiler is illegal and dangerous. Always check credentials before allowing work to begin.

Electrician repairing electric boiler for business in Wandsworth

Understanding Boiler Warranties and Insurance

Before paying for repairs, check if your boiler is covered under warranty, guarantee, or insurance.

How to Check If Your Boiler Is Still Under Warranty

Look at the documents provided when the boiler was installed.
If you don’t have the paperwork, contact the manufacturer to check if it’s still covered.
Some warranties require regular servicing to stay valid—check if this has been done.

Is Your Boiler Covered by Insurance?

Some insurance policies include boiler cover. Check if you have:

Home emergency cover – Often included in home insurance.
Boiler-specific insurance – Some people take out separate boiler cover for breakdowns.
Workplace benefits – Some employers offer home emergency cover as an employee benefit.
Bank account extras – Some packaged bank accounts include boiler repair services.

How to Compare Warranty and Insurance Options

If you have multiple policies, check:

Whether they cover both parts and labour.
If there’s an excess fee to pay for a claim.
How long repairs take under the policy.

If you’re not covered, you’ll need to pay for repairs or consider a grant if you’re eligible.

Financial Help for Boiler Repairs

Boiler repairs and replacements can be expensive, but grants, insurance, and funding schemes may help cover the cost.

1. Grants for Boiler Repairs and Replacements

If you are on a low income, have a disability, or receive certain benefits, you may qualify for financial support.

Energy Company Obligation (ECO) Scheme – A government-backed programme offering free or discounted boiler repairs and replacements for eligible households.
Local Council Grants – Some councils provide funding for heating repairs, especially for vulnerable residents. Check your local council’s website to see what’s available.
Disabled Facilities Grant – If you have a disability, you might be eligible for help with heating improvements through this scheme.

2. Boiler Cover and Home Emergency Insurance

If you have home insurance, check your policy to see if boiler breakdowns are covered. Some policies include:

Home emergency cover – Repairs for urgent boiler faults.
Boiler-specific insurance – Some people take out separate policies for boiler breakdowns.
Bank account benefits – Some packaged accounts offer boiler cover as an extra.

3. Charities and Home Improvement Agencies

Turn2Us – A charity that helps people find grants for home repairs.
Home Improvement Agencies (HIA) – If you're elderly, disabled, or on a low income, HIAs may offer financial assistance or advice.

If you don’t qualify for a grant or funding, you will need to pay for the repairs yourself. In that case, make sure you get multiple quotes from registered professionals.

Getting the Right Engineer for the Job

Not all tradespeople are qualified to fix boilers, so it’s important to find the right engineer.

1. Always Choose a Gas Safe Registered Engineer

Only a Gas Safe engineer can legally work on a gas boiler. To check their credentials:

Ask for their Gas Safe ID card – It shows their registration number and what types of work they are qualified for.
Look them up on the Gas Safe Register website before hiring.

2. Check Their Experience and Reviews

Look at online reviews and ratings.
Ask for references from past customers.
Make sure they have experience with your boiler brand and model.

3. Confirm Their Pricing and Guarantees

Ask if they charge a call-out fee before inspecting the boiler.
Check if parts and labour are included in the price.
Ask if they offer a guarantee on the work done.

Taking the time to check these details can save you money and ensure the job is done properly.

Comparing Quotes for Boiler Repairs

Getting multiple quotes is essential to avoid overpaying or hiring someone unqualified.

Why Multiple Quotes Matter

Prices for boiler repairs can vary significantly between engineers.
Some companies charge extra fees that aren’t always listed upfront.
Comparing quotes helps spot unreasonable costs or hidden charges.

What to Check Before Hiring

When comparing quotes, ask:

What’s included? – Ensure the price covers labour, parts, and any follow-up work.
Are there extra charges? – Some engineers charge call-out fees or diagnostic fees separately.
Is there a guarantee? – Check if the repair is covered under warranty.
How long will it take? – Some repairs require ordering parts, which could delay the fix.

How Many Quotes Should You Get?

Aim for at least three quotes before making a decision. This gives a good idea of average pricing and helps find a fair deal.

Can an Electrician Install a New Boiler?

Electricians cannot install a gas boiler. Boiler installation must be done by a Gas Safe registered engineer.

Who is Responsible for Boiler Installation?

Gas Safe Engineers – Legally required to install gas boilers. They ensure the system is safe, connected correctly, and compliant with regulations.
Electricians – Can wire the electrical components of the boiler, such as the thermostat or smart controls, but cannot handle the gas side.
Heating Engineers – Some specialise in boiler installation and may be Gas Safe registered. Always check their credentials.

When Can an Electrician Be Involved?

Electricians may assist with:

Wiring the boiler’s electrical components.
Installing smart heating controls (e.g., Hive, Nest).
Upgrading electrical connections for new heating systems.

However, they must not install, service, or repair gas parts. If a company offers "boiler installation" services, always check if they are Gas Safe registered before hiring them.

Alternative Heating Options

If your boiler is beyond repair or you’re looking for a more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly option, there are several alternatives to consider.

1. Heat Pumps

Extract heat from the air or ground to warm your home.
Work well with underfloor heating and larger radiators.
More energy-efficient than gas boilers but can be expensive to install.
Government grants like the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) can help with the cost.

2. Biomass Boilers

Burn wood pellets, logs, or chips instead of gas.
Lower carbon emissions than traditional gas boilers.
Require storage space for fuel.
Can be eligible for financial support under government renewable heating incentives.

3. Electric Boilers

Suitable for homes without a gas supply.
Generally smaller and quieter than gas boilers.
Higher running costs due to electricity prices.

4. Infrared Heating Panels

Heat objects and people directly rather than warming the air.
Energy-efficient and easy to install.
Best for small rooms or supplementary heating rather than full-home heating.

If you’re thinking about switching, check what grants and funding schemes are available to help with installation costs.

Staying Warm While Waiting for Repairs

A broken boiler in winter can be uncomfortable, but there are ways to stay warm while waiting for repairs.

1. Use Portable Heaters

Oil-filled radiators or fan heaters can provide temporary heat.
Be mindful of electricity costs, as these can be expensive to run.

2. Layer Up and Insulate Rooms

Wear extra layers of clothing, including socks and slippers.
Use thicker curtains or door draught excluders to keep heat in.

3. Heat One Room at a Time

Close doors to trap heat in the room you use most.
Spend time in rooms with carpets and soft furnishings that hold heat better.

4. Use Hot Water Bottles and Heated Blankets

Heated blankets are a cost-effective way to stay warm at night.
A hot water bottle under your duvet keeps warmth in for longer.

5. Eat Warm Meals and Drinks

Eating hot soups, teas, and stews can help regulate body temperature.
Avoid drinking too much caffeine as it can make you feel colder.

If your boiler is expected to be out of action for several days, consider staying with family or friends if possible.

FAQs About Boiler Repairs and Electricians

Who is responsible for fixing a boiler?

If you own your home, you are responsible for repairing or replacing a broken boiler. If you rent, your landlord must arrange repairs, unless you caused the damage.

Do you need an electrician to fit a boiler?

No, only a Gas Safe engineer can install a boiler. An electrician may be needed to connect wiring or smart controls, but they cannot install or service the gas system.

Can TNS Electrical Solutions in Wandsworth fix a boiler?

TNS Electrical Solutions is a qualified electrician service in Wandsworth. While they can fix electrical faults in boilers, they cannot repair gas-related issues. If your boiler has an electrical issue, such as a faulty thermostat or wiring problem, they can help.

Does TNS Electrical Solutions install smart heating systems?

Yes, TNS Electrical Solutions in Wandsworth can install smart heating controls like Nest, Hive, and other smart thermostats. They can also help with boiler wiring and electrical faults.

If you have a gas-related problem, you’ll need a Gas Safe registered engineer.

How to Avoid Boiler Breakdowns in the Future

Regular maintenance can prevent unexpected boiler failures and extend its lifespan.

1. Get an Annual Boiler Service

A Gas Safe engineer should service your boiler once a year.
Regular servicing helps spot early warning signs before they turn into major issues.
Some warranties require annual servicing to stay valid.

2. Check Boiler Pressure Regularly

Low pressure can cause the boiler to stop working.
Most boilers need a pressure level between 1 and 1.5 bar.
If the pressure keeps dropping, it could be a leak or faulty component.

3. Bleed Radiators When Needed

If radiators are cold at the top but warm at the bottom, there may be trapped air.
Bleeding radiators improves efficiency and reduces strain on the boiler.

4. Insulate Pipes in Winter

Frozen condensate pipes can cause the boiler to shut down in cold weather.
Use pipe insulation to prevent freezing.

5. Keep an Eye on Warning Signs

Strange noises, leaks, or error codes can signal an issue.
If something seems wrong, get it checked early before it leads to a costly breakdown.

Staying on top of maintenance helps avoid expensive repairs and keeps your heating system working properly when you need it most.