Heating Hub

Sorting out your home's heating

Whether you're dealing with a boiler that won't fire up, planning a new installation, or just trying to keep your central heating running efficiently, getting the right help matters, and so does knowing who's actually qualified to give it.

Not every heating job needs the same tradesperson. Our guide on whether a plumber can fix boilers explains the key distinction: a plumber can handle radiators and general pipework, but anything involving the boiler itself, gas pipework, or a flue legally requires a Gas Safe registered engineer. If your boiler's stopped working entirely, our guide on what to do if your boiler isn't working covers the troubleshooting steps worth trying first.

If you're planning further ahead, our new boiler installation planning guide walks through boiler types and the installation process from start to finish.

The stages of a heating project

• Diagnose the actual problem first - see what to do if your oil boiler won't ignite or your boiler isn't working after a power cut for common faults

• Work out who you actually need - a plumber, or a Gas Safe registered heating engineer; see does a plumber fix boilers?

• Plan a new installation properly, if that's the route - our new boiler installation guide covers boiler types and what to expect

• Keep on top of ongoing maintenance - see our seven tips for central heating maintenance

• Budget realistically for running costs - our guide on the cost of running gas central heating helps with this

Always confirm Gas Safe registration before anyone works on a boiler or gas appliance; it's a legal requirement, not just good practice.

Looking to find out more about heating?

• Air source heat pump vs ground source heat pump: which is best?

• Heat pump servicing and repair cost

• How to hire a chimney specialist for sweeping and repairs

Questions for your heating engineer

Qualifications and Experience

• Are you Gas Safe registered? Can I see your ID card, showing your photo and the specific jobs you're qualified to carry out?

• Are you registered as a "plumbing and heating engineer," or do you specialise in one or the other?

Project Specifics

• Is this a job a plumber can handle, or does it need a Gas Safe engineer specifically? (Anything touching the boiler, gas pipework, or the flue needs Gas Safe registration by law)

• If it's an emergency callout with no heating or hot water, can you attend the same day?

• What's likely causing the fault, and is it a quick fix or something more involved?

Quotes and Contracts

• Does the quote distinguish between a scheduled visit and an emergency callout rate?

• Are parts and labour itemised separately in the quote?

Certification and Guarantees

• Can I verify your Gas Safe registration independently, via the Gas Safe Register website or phone line?

• What guarantee do you offer on parts and labour for the completed work?