DIY Repairs: How to Solve Common Problems at Home

Many common heating and plumbing problems can be fixed without calling out an engineer. Whether your radiator is cold, your boiler pressure is low, or your tap won't stop dripping—there are a few simple things you can try first. At Thermo-Tec Plumbing and Heating, we believe in helping Wokingham homeowners stay warm and avoid unnecessary costs.

1. How to Bleed a Radiator

Issue: One radiator isn’t heating up properly—cold at the top, warm at the bottom.
Likely Cause: Trapped air.

DIY Fix:

  1. Turn off your heating and let the system cool.

  2. Locate the bleed valve at the top side of the radiator.

  3. Use a radiator key to turn the valve slowly.

  4. Listen for a hissing sound (air escaping).

  5. When water starts to come out, close the valve.

Tip: Keep a cloth or small container handy to catch drips.

2. How to Top Up Boiler Pressure

Issue: Your boiler is displaying low pressure (usually under 1 bar).
Likely Cause: A small leak or recently bled radiators.

DIY Fix:

  1. Locate the filling loop beneath your boiler.

  2. Open the valves slowly and watch the pressure gauge.

  3. When it reaches 1.5 bar, close the valves.

Important: Don’t overfill. Stop at the manufacturer’s recommended pressure.

3. How to Fix a Dripping Tap

Issue: Constant dripping wastes water and can be annoying.
Likely Cause: A worn washer or ceramic disc inside the tap.

DIY Fix (if you're comfortable):

  1. Turn off your water supply.

  2. Remove the tap handle and unscrew the valve.

  3. Replace the washer or ceramic disc cartridge.

  4. Reassemble and test.

Note: If unsure, call a professional to avoid damaging the tap.

4. Why Is My Radiator Still Cold After Bleeding?

Possible Cause:

  • Sludge buildup inside your system

  • Broken thermostat valve

  • Airlock in the pipework

Next Step: If the radiator stays cold after bleeding, it’s best to call a heating engineer. You may need a power flush or valve replacement.

5. Resetting Your Boiler

Issue: Boiler has stopped working after a fault or power cut.
DIY Fix:

  1. Find the reset button on your boiler (usually marked).

  2. Press and hold it for 5–10 seconds.

  3. Wait for the boiler to restart.

Note: If the fault returns, there may be a deeper issue. Always check the error code and consult the manual.

When to Call a Professional

While these tips can fix minor issues, don’t take risks with gas, electrical, or pressurised systems. If in doubt, always contact a Gas Safe registered engineer.

Need a Hand? Call Your Local Wokingham Heating Experts

At Thermo-Tec Plumbing and Heating, we’re here when DIY doesn’t work. Whether it’s a radiator that won’t warm up or a boiler breakdown, we offer fast, reliable service across Wokingham and surrounding areas.

Call: 07850 116944
Email: info@thermo-tec.co.uk