Pilot Light Keeps Going Out
The boiler pilot light repeatedly extinguishes, meaning the boiler will not fire up for heating or hot water.
What Is Causing This?
- 1Faulty thermocouple not sensing the flame
- 2Draught blowing the pilot out through a flue issue
- 3Gas valve not supplying consistent pressure
How Urgent Is This?
This should be fixed in the coming weeks. Leaving it may allow the problem to worsen and cost more to repair.
What Needs to Be Done
A Gas Safe engineer will test and replace the thermocouple if faulty, check the flue for draughts, and test the gas valve. They will also check for proper ventilation.
How Much Will It Cost?
National average estimate
Labour: £85 – £200 | Materials: £30 – £178
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Prices are estimates based on typical UK rates. Actual costs depend on the specific issue, accessibility, and your location. All quotes from tradespeople on Tradesfolk are completely free.
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Try Snap and FixHow to Prevent This
Have your boiler serviced annually to catch thermocouple wear early. Ensure the flue terminal outside is clear of debris.
Related Problems
The boiler shows an error code, flashes a warning light, or simply will not ignite when heating or hot water is called for.
Hot water taps run cold or lukewarm despite the boiler or immersion heater being switched on.
Both the central heating and hot water have stopped working completely, often during cold weather.
Other Gas Engineer Problems
Loud banging, kettling, or rumbling sounds coming from the boiler, particularly when the heating or hot water comes on.
A smell of gas (rotten eggs) inside the house, which could indicate a gas leak.
The boiler pressure gauge keeps falling below 1 bar, causing the boiler to lock out or lose heating efficiency.
The boiler shows an error code, flashes a warning light, or simply will not ignite when heating or hot water is called for.