BOXT used Google search data to reveal the most commonly searched boiler sounds in the UK, and has provided advice on how to resolve the issues associated with these noises.
Andy Kerr, founder and CEO at BOXT, said: “If you’ve noticed your boiler making a noise that varies from how it usually sounds, it’s best to act fast to prevent further damage. A noisy boiler isn’t always a cause for concern, but there are certain noises to look out for, and each comes with its reasons and remedies.”
Here are the boiler noises that BOXT has suggested to look out for and their potential causes:
Sounds like a kettle boiling
BOXT stated that one cause of a noisy boiler could be kettling, which happens when the flow of water through the boiler slows down, causing the water to be overheated and reach boiling point. This is when a kettling noise can be heard.
A lot of the time this can be a result of circulatory issues which means the water isn’t being pumped or moving around the system effectively, it noted. This could point towards a faulty pump and or central heating system issues.
Kettling can be a serious problem that should be looked at by a Gas Safe engineer, it added, but common causes include: limescale build-up, a leaking boiler or system with the incorrect amount of water in it, a faulty pump or a faulty thermostat that is causing the boiler to overheat
Knocking
If a clicking or tapping noise can be heard, BOXT suggested that it could be the boiler struggling to fire up. One potential cause for this is ignition failure. This is not something homeowners should try and resolve themselves, it advised, and instead highlighted the need to call a Gas Safe engineer as it could be related to the gas supply to their property.
Gurgling / Dripping
BOXT said that while there are other causes, for the most part a gurgling noise is caused by trapped air in a radiator. Sometimes, the gurgling sound coming from a boiler is the hot water moving, so there’s no reason to worry. However, if the sound is persistent and happens more frequently, BOXT advised that it’s best to take a quick look at by bleeding the radiator, checking the water pressure and checking for a frozen condensate pipe.
If the problem persists, there could be something else wrong with the boiler. BOXT suggested then speaking to a Gas Safe registered engineer who will be able to help tackle the situation.
Banging sounds
The company stated that a loud banging noise can come from limescale buildup inside the heat exchanger, a faulty boiler thermostat, or it could be something as simple as your thermostat being set incorrectly.
BOXT suggested calling a heating engineer who can check the temperatures of the flow and return pipes to check for overheating, and also check the boiler thermostat is set to its correct temperature. If either of the above are not causing the issue, they may need to access the pipework under the flooring to check it is clipped and supported correctly.
Buzzing sounds
If the boiler is making a buzzing sound, BOXT said that the best course of action was to seek help from a professional. Numerous issues could cause a buzzing sound, from electrical components failing, to a pump sticking.
Whooshing / Sounds like a washing machine
Whooshing noises are especially prevalent in combi boilers, the company said. These noises are usually made from a blocked circulation pump or trapped air in the system. BOXT suggested geting in touch with an engineer, who can check for any blockages or trapped air and diagnose the problem.
Alarm sound
If there is an alarm sound coming from a boiler it’s usually a signal that something is not quite right, BOXT noted. Common causes of this are low water pressure, a faulty thermostat and blockages. The company said homeowners should troubleshoot the boiler by checking the water pressure and the thermostat, if these are in working order and the beeping sounds persist, contact a Gas Safe registered engineer.