Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about our plumbing and heating services. Can't find what you're looking for? Contact us.

General Questions

How quickly can I book a plumber in London?

We offer rapid booking service, allowing you to schedule a plumber within hours of your request. Our online booking system is available 24/7, and we typically respond to bookings within 15 minutes during business hours.

How much does a plumber cost in London?

Our pricing is transparent and competitive. The first hour is £120, with payment taken at the end of the job. We provide clear, upfront quotes for any additional work, so there are no hidden fees.

Are your plumbers qualified and insured?

Yes, all our plumbers are fully qualified, Gas Safe registered (where applicable), and carry comprehensive insurance coverage. We conduct thorough background checks and regular training to ensure the highest standards of service.

Do you offer emergency plumbing services in London?

Yes, we offer emergency plumbing services during working hours. Our plumbers can attend within 4 hours for urgent issues. To book a morning emergency slot, please book before 3pm the previous day. For afternoon emergency slots, booking must be made before 10am on the same day.

What areas of London do you cover?

We provide plumbing services across all London boroughs. Our team of local plumbers is strategically positioned throughout the city to ensure prompt service regardless of your location in London.

What types of plumbing services do you offer?

We offer a comprehensive range of plumbing services including emergency leak repairs, hot water problems, plumbing leak fixes, pipework replacement, radiator and valve installations, stopcock repairs, tap repairs, thermostat installation, toilet repairs and installations, boiler repairs and servicing, and landlord gas safety checks.

How does your booking process work?

Our booking process is simple and efficient. You can book online through our website at any time. Select your service, choose an available time slot, and pay the initial callout fee upfront. We'll confirm your booking promptly and dispatch a qualified plumber to your location at the scheduled time.

What happens if additional work is needed beyond the initial callout?

If our plumber identifies that additional work is required beyond the initial callout, they will provide a clear explanation and a detailed quote before proceeding. We pride ourselves on transparency, and you'll never face hidden charges or unexpected costs. All additional work requires your approval before we begin.

Heating & Boiler Services

How long does a boiler installation take?

Most boiler installations take 1-2 days depending on the complexity. A straight swap of a combi boiler typically takes one day, while converting from a system to a combi boiler or installing in a new location may take longer.

What's included in your boiler installation service?

Our installation includes removing your old boiler, installing the new boiler with all necessary pipework and controls, system flushing, commissioning, and a full demonstration of your new system. We also handle all certification and warranty registration.

Do you help choose the right boiler for my home?

Absolutely. We assess your property size, hot water usage, existing heating system, and budget to recommend the most suitable boiler. We'll explain the benefits of different brands and models to help you make an informed decision.

What warranties do you provide on boiler installations?

All our installations come with manufacturer warranties (typically 5-10 years) plus our own workmanship guarantee. We also provide ongoing support and can arrange annual servicing to maintain your warranty.

Can you install a boiler in a different location?

Yes, we can relocate boilers to more convenient positions, such as moving from a bedroom to a cupboard or loft space. We'll assess the feasibility and provide a detailed quote for any additional work required.

How often should I service my boiler?

We recommend annual boiler servicing to maintain safety, efficiency, and warranty coverage. Regular servicing can prevent breakdowns, extend your boiler's lifespan, and is often required to maintain manufacturer warranties.

What's included in a boiler service?

Our comprehensive service includes checking all safety devices, testing gas pressure and flow rates, inspecting the heat exchanger, cleaning key components, checking controls and thermostats, and testing the flue and ventilation — plus a detailed service report and certification.

Will you identify potential problems during the service?

Yes, our engineers are trained to spot early signs of wear or potential issues. We'll advise you of any concerns and provide recommendations for repairs or replacements before problems become serious.

Do landlords need annual boiler services?

Whilst landlords are legally required to have an annual gas safety check, boiler servicing is also recommended to maintain efficiency and prevent breakdowns. We provide gas safety certificates and can arrange regular servicing schedules for multiple properties.

Can you service all boiler brands?

Yes, our Gas Safe engineers are qualified to service all major boiler brands including Worcester Bosch, Vaillant, Baxi, Ideal, and others. We carry common service parts and can advise on any brand-specific requirements.

What are common problems with boilers?

Common boiler issues include diverter valve faults (causing heat but no hot water), plate heat exchanger problems (often due to limescale), pressure loss, pump failures, and ignition problems. Our engineers can diagnose and fix these issues efficiently.

Why do I have heating but no hot water from my boiler?

This is typically caused by a faulty diverter valve, which should switch between heating and hot water modes. It's one of the most common boiler problems and one our engineers are very experienced in resolving.

How quickly can you repair my boiler?

We aim to repair your boiler on the first visit whenever possible. For standard appointments, we can typically attend within 24-48 hours. If specific parts need to be ordered, we'll provide a clear timeframe for completing the repair.

Is it worth repairing an older boiler?

This depends on the boiler's age, condition, and the nature of the fault. For boilers under 10 years old, repairs are usually worthwhile. For older models with significant issues, we'll provide honest advice about whether repairing or replacing your boiler offers better long-term value.

Why does my boiler lose pressure?

Boilers can lose pressure due to leaks in the system, issues with the expansion vessel, or problems with the pressure relief valve. Our engineers will identify the specific cause and provide a lasting solution rather than just topping up the pressure. If you're unsure what's causing it, try our low pressure diagnostic tool.

What are my legal obligations as a landlord for gas safety?

You must have all gas appliances, flues, and fittings checked annually by a Gas Safe registered engineer. You must provide tenants with a copy of the gas safety certificate within 28 days of the check, and before new tenants move in.

How do you arrange access to my rental properties?

We coordinate directly with your tenants to arrange convenient appointment times. We work around their schedules and yours to ensure minimal disruption while meeting your legal obligations.

What happens if my tenant refuses access for the gas safety check?

If tenants refuse reasonable access, we can provide documentation of our attempts to arrange the check. We'll work with you to find solutions, as you have legal rights to access the property for safety inspections with proper notice.

Can you manage gas safety checks for multiple properties?

Yes, we specialise in managing gas safety checks across property portfolios. We can set up annual schedules, send renewal reminders, and coordinate checks across all your properties to ensure continuous compliance.

How quickly can you provide the gas safety certificate?

We provide gas safety certificates immediately after completing the check, either digitally or in hard copy as you prefer. This ensures you can quickly provide copies to tenants and maintain compliance records.

What are common problems with Vaillant boilers?

Common Vaillant boiler issues include pressure loss, ignition failures, pump problems, diverter valve faults, and error codes like F.22, F.28, or F.75. Our engineers are familiar with all Vaillant fault codes and can quickly diagnose and resolve these issues.

How quickly can you repair my Vaillant boiler?

We aim to repair your Vaillant boiler on the first visit whenever possible. For standard appointments, we can typically attend within 24-48 hours. If parts need to be ordered, we'll provide a clear timeframe for the repair completion.

Will repairing my Vaillant boiler affect its warranty?

No, our repairs won't void your warranty as we use genuine Vaillant parts and follow manufacturer guidelines. If your boiler is still under warranty, we can advise whether the repair might be covered by Vaillant directly.

How long do Vaillant boilers typically last?

With proper maintenance, Vaillant boilers typically last 10-15 years. Regular servicing can extend their lifespan and maintain efficiency. If your Vaillant boiler is approaching this age, we can advise whether repair or replacement offers better value.

Is it worth repairing an older Vaillant boiler?

This depends on the boiler's age, condition, and the nature of the fault. For Vaillant boilers under 10 years old, repairs are usually worthwhile. For older models with significant issues, we'll provide honest advice about whether repairing or replacing your Vaillant boiler offers better long-term value.

How often should I service my Vaillant boiler?

Vaillant recommends annual servicing to maintain safety, efficiency, and warranty coverage. Regular servicing prevents unexpected breakdowns and keeps your boiler running at optimal efficiency, reducing your energy bills.

What's included in a Vaillant boiler service?

Our Vaillant service includes checking all safety devices, testing gas pressure and flow rates, inspecting and cleaning the heat exchanger, checking the condensate system, testing ignition and flame sensing, checking controls and thermostats, flue gas analysis, and a comprehensive service report.

Will servicing maintain my Vaillant warranty?

Yes, our servicing is fully compliant with Vaillant warranty requirements. We follow manufacturer guidelines and provide detailed service documentation that serves as proof of maintenance for any warranty claims.

Can you service all Vaillant boiler models?

Yes, our engineers are trained on all Vaillant models including the ecoTEC plus, ecoTEC pro, ecoTEC exclusive, ecoFIT pure, and older Vaillant ranges. We carry Vaillant-specific tools and common service parts.

What if you find a problem during my Vaillant service?

If we identify any issues during your service, we'll explain the problem and your options clearly. Minor issues can often be addressed during the service visit. For more significant repairs, we'll provide a transparent quote using genuine Vaillant parts.

How do I book a Vaillant boiler service in London?

Book your Vaillant boiler service online in minutes. Choose your preferred appointment time and our Vaillant-trained engineer will attend as scheduled. We provide Vaillant boiler servicing across all London areas.

What are common problems with Worcester boilers?

Common Worcester boiler issues include low pressure, ignition failures, frozen condensate pipes, PCB faults, and error codes such as EA, CE, and D5. Our engineers can quickly identify and resolve these and other Worcester-specific problems.

How long does a Worcester boiler repair typically take?

Most Worcester boiler repairs can be completed within 1-2 hours once we've diagnosed the issue. We aim to fix your boiler on the first visit whenever possible, carrying common Worcester parts in our vans.

My Worcester boiler keeps losing pressure - what could be causing this?

Pressure loss in Worcester boilers is typically caused by leaks in the system, issues with the expansion vessel, or problems with the pressure relief valve. Our engineers will identify the specific cause and provide a lasting solution. Try our low pressure diagnostic tool to find the most likely cause before booking.

Are Worcester boilers worth repairing?

Worcester Bosch boilers are high-quality systems that generally justify repairs, especially if under 10 years old. Their reliability and efficiency make them worth maintaining. For older models, use our repair-or-replace decision tool to get a personalised recommendation.

Will you honour my Worcester Bosch warranty?

If your Worcester boiler is still under warranty, we'll advise you on whether to claim through the manufacturer. For repairs outside warranty, we use genuine Worcester parts to maintain the integrity of your system and any remaining warranty coverage.

How often should I service my Worcester boiler?

Worcester Bosch recommends annual servicing to maintain safety, efficiency, and warranty coverage. Regular servicing can prevent breakdowns, extend your boiler's lifespan, and is required to maintain your manufacturer warranty.

What's included in a Worcester boiler service?

Our Worcester boiler service includes checking all safety devices, testing gas pressure and flow rates, inspecting the heat exchanger, cleaning the burner and main injector, checking the condensate trap and pipework, testing controls and thermostats, and checking the flue and ventilation. You'll receive a detailed service report.

Will servicing maintain my Worcester warranty?

Yes, our servicing follows Worcester Bosch manufacturer guidelines and maintains your warranty coverage. We provide a detailed service record that you can use as proof of maintenance for warranty claims.

Can you service all Worcester Bosch boiler models?

Yes, our engineers are trained on all Worcester Bosch models including the Greenstar i, Si, CDi, and Lifestyle ranges, as well as older Worcester boilers. We carry Worcester-specific service tools and common spare parts.

What if you find a problem during my Worcester service?

If we identify any issues during your service, we'll explain the problem clearly and provide options for repair. Minor issues can often be resolved during the service visit. For more significant repairs, we'll provide a detailed quote with no obligation.

How do I book a Worcester boiler service near me?

You can book your Worcester boiler service online in just a few clicks. Select your preferred date and time, and one of our Worcester-trained engineers will attend at the scheduled time. We service Worcester boilers across London.

What are common problems with hot water cylinders?

Common hot water cylinder issues include faulty immersion heaters, thermostat failures, leaking cylinders, pressure relief valve problems, and expansion vessel faults. Our engineers can diagnose and fix these issues efficiently.

Why is my hot water running cold quickly?

This could be due to a faulty immersion heater, thermostat issues, limescale build-up reducing cylinder capacity, or problems with the boiler's ability to heat the cylinder. Our engineers will identify the specific cause and recommend the appropriate solution.

Can you repair a leaking hot water cylinder?

Minor leaks from connections or valves can often be repaired. However, if the cylinder itself is leaking from the main body, replacement is usually necessary as repairs are rarely effective long-term. We'll provide honest advice based on the specific situation.

How long does a hot water cylinder repair typically take?

Most hot water cylinder repairs can be completed within 1-2 hours once we've diagnosed the issue. Replacing components like immersion heaters or thermostats is relatively straightforward. Full cylinder replacements typically take 4-6 hours.

Is it worth repairing an older hot water cylinder?

This depends on the cylinder's age, condition, and the nature of the fault. For cylinders under 10 years old, repairs are usually worthwhile. For older cylinders with significant issues, replacement might offer better value, especially as newer models provide better insulation and efficiency.

What's the difference between vented and unvented hot water cylinders?

Vented cylinders work at low pressure and require a cold water tank in the loft. Unvented cylinders connect directly to the mains water supply, operate at high pressure, and don't need a cold water tank. Unvented systems typically provide better water pressure but require additional safety devices and qualified installers.

How do I know what size hot water cylinder I need?

Cylinder sizing depends on your household size and hot water usage patterns. As a general guide, a 120-150 liter cylinder suits 1-2 people, 150-180 liters for 2-3 people, and 180-210+ liters for larger households. We'll assess your specific requirements to recommend the optimal size.

How long does a hot water cylinder installation take?

A straightforward cylinder replacement typically takes 4-6 hours. First-time installations or those requiring significant plumbing changes may take a full day. We'll provide a specific timeframe after assessing your requirements.

Which hot water cylinder brands do you recommend?

We install quality cylinders from leading manufacturers including Megaflo, Gledhill, Telford, and Santon. The best choice depends on your specific requirements, budget, and system type. We'll help you select the most suitable option for your circumstances.

How energy efficient are modern hot water cylinders?

Modern hot water cylinders are significantly more efficient than older models, with improved insulation reducing heat loss by up to 50%. This means your water stays hotter for longer with less energy input. Some cylinders are also compatible with renewable energy sources like solar thermal systems for further efficiency gains.

Plumbing Services

How quickly can you attend to an emergency leak?

We can typically attend emergency leaks within 4 hours during working hours. For next day appointments, please book before 3pm for morning slots and by 10am for afternoon slots.

What should I do while waiting for a plumber to arrive for an emergency leak?

If possible, turn off your water at the main stopcock to prevent further damage. Place buckets under active leaks and move valuable items away from the affected area. Take photos for insurance purposes if safe to do so.

How do you detect hidden leaks in walls or under floors?

We use professional leak detection equipment including acoustic devices, thermal imaging cameras, and moisture meters to precisely locate hidden leaks with minimal disruption to your property.

What causes emergency water leaks in homes?

Emergency leaks are commonly caused by burst pipes due to freezing, high water pressure, corroded pipework, failed pipe joints, damaged seals around baths/showers, or faulty appliance connections.

Do you charge extra for emergency leak repairs?

Our emergency leak repair service has a higher callout rate than standard appointments due to the urgent nature of the work. However, all costs will be clearly explained upfront before any work begins.

What constitutes a plumbing emergency?

Plumbing emergencies include burst pipes, major leaks causing property damage, complete loss of water supply, sewage backups, and no hot water in winter conditions. If you're unsure, call us and we'll help assess the urgency.

How soon can an emergency plumber arrive?

Our emergency plumbers can typically attend within 4 hours during working hours. We prioritize cases based on severity and potential for property damage.

What should I do before the emergency plumber arrives?

Turn off your water at the main stopcock, switch off water heaters or boilers if relevant to the emergency, and remove valuable items from affected areas. If safe, take photos for insurance purposes.

Do emergency plumbers carry parts for common problems?

Yes, our emergency plumbers carry a comprehensive stock of parts for the most common emergency situations, allowing us to complete many repairs in a single visit.

How much does an emergency plumber cost?

Emergency plumbing services have a higher callout rate than standard appointments due to their urgent nature. The initial callout fee is taken upfront during booking, and we'll provide clear pricing for any additional work required.

Why do I have no hot water but my heating works fine?

This could be due to several issues: a faulty diverter valve in combi boilers, problems with the hot water cylinder in conventional systems, thermostat issues, or pump failures. Our technicians can diagnose the specific cause.

How long does it typically take to fix hot water problems?

Most hot water issues can be diagnosed and repaired within 1-2 hours. However, if parts need to be ordered or if there's a complex underlying issue, it may take longer. We'll always provide a timeframe estimate after diagnosis.

Can you repair my immersion heater?

Yes, we repair and replace immersion heaters in hot water cylinders. Common issues include faulty thermostats, failed heating elements, or wiring problems, all of which we can fix.

Why is my hot water running cold after a few minutes?

This is often caused by a build-up of limescale in your system, a faulty thermostat, problems with the diverter valve, or insufficient hot water storage. We can identify and resolve the specific cause.

Is it worth repairing my hot water cylinder or should I replace it?

This depends on the cylinder's age, condition, and the nature of the problem. We'll provide honest advice on whether repair or replacement offers better value. Generally, cylinders over 10-15 years old with significant issues may be more economical to replace.

How can I tell if I have a hidden water leak?

Signs of hidden leaks include unexplained increases in water bills, damp patches on walls or ceilings, mould growth, warm spots on floors (for hot water pipes), the sound of running water when taps are off, and reduced water pressure.

Can you detect and repair leaks without damaging my property?

Yes, we use non-invasive detection methods like acoustic equipment and thermal imaging to locate leaks precisely. This minimizes the need for exploratory work and reduces disruption to your property.

How do you repair leaks in pipes that are behind walls or under floors?

Once we've precisely located the leak, we'll discuss the best approach. Sometimes we can make targeted access points to reach the pipe, while in other cases we might reroute pipework. We always aim for the least disruptive solution.

Will my home insurance cover leak detection and repairs?

Many home insurance policies cover leak detection and repairs, especially if they've caused property damage. We can provide detailed reports and documentation to support your insurance claim.

How can I prevent plumbing leaks in my home?

Preventative measures include regular plumbing maintenance, promptly repairing minor issues like dripping taps, insulating pipes in cold areas to prevent freezing, maintaining appropriate water pressure, and being cautious when drilling into walls where pipes might be located.

How do I know what size radiator I need for my room?

Radiator sizing depends on room dimensions, insulation levels, window sizes, and the room's purpose. We can calculate the correct BTU (British Thermal Unit) requirement for each room to ensure your new radiators provide adequate heat output.

Can you replace a radiator without draining the entire heating system?

Yes, we use specialized equipment to isolate and replace individual radiators without draining your entire heating system. This makes the process quicker and less disruptive.

What are thermostatic radiator valves and are they worth installing?

Thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs) allow you to control the temperature of individual radiators, creating different heating zones in your home. They're worth installing as they can significantly improve comfort and reduce energy consumption by up to 40% by preventing overheating in rooms.

How long does it take to install a new radiator?

A straightforward radiator replacement typically takes 1-2 hours. Installing a radiator in a new location may take longer (2-4 hours) as it requires additional pipework. Multiple radiator installations are usually completed within a day.

Do I need to redecorate after having a radiator replaced?

In most cases, radiator replacement doesn't require redecorating. We take care to protect your decor during installation. However, if you're changing to a different sized radiator, there may be wall areas that were previously covered which might need painting.

Where should stopcocks be located in my home?

Your main stopcock should be located where the water supply enters your property, often under the kitchen sink, in a downstairs bathroom, utility room, or near the front door. Additional stopcocks can be installed to isolate specific areas or appliances for maintenance.

Why won't my stopcock turn off completely?

Stopcocks can deteriorate over time due to limescale build-up, corrosion, or mechanical wear. If your stopcock doesn't fully shut off the water supply, it needs replacing to ensure you can control your water in emergencies.

How often should stopcocks be replaced?

There's no set timeframe, but stopcocks should be replaced if they become difficult to turn, leak, or fail to completely shut off the water. As a preventative measure, consider replacing stopcocks older than 15-20 years, especially if they show signs of corrosion.

Can you add additional stopcocks to isolate specific areas of my home?

Yes, we can install additional isolation valves to control water flow to specific areas, bathrooms, or appliances. This makes maintenance easier and limits the impact of any future plumbing issues to smaller sections of your home.

How long does it take to replace or install a stopcock?

A straightforward stopcock replacement typically takes 30-60 minutes. Installing a new stopcock in a different location may take 1-2 hours depending on access and pipework requirements. We'll need to turn off your water supply during the installation.

Why is my tap dripping and can it be repaired?

Taps typically drip due to worn washers, damaged ceramic discs, or deteriorated O-rings. Most dripping taps can be repaired by replacing these internal components, though very old or damaged taps might need complete replacement for a lasting solution.

How much water does a dripping tap waste?

A tap dripping at one drop per second can waste approximately 20,000 litres of water per year. This not only impacts the environment but can significantly increase your water bills, especially if you have a water meter.

Can you match my new tap to my existing bathroom or kitchen style?

Yes, we supply and install taps in a wide range of styles, finishes, and designs to complement your existing decor. From traditional cross-head designs to contemporary minimalist styles, we can help you select the perfect match.

Do I need to turn off my water supply to replace a tap?

Yes, the water supply needs to be turned off before replacing a tap. We'll locate and use the appropriate isolation valves to minimize disruption to your water supply, often only affecting the specific area being worked on.

How long does it take to replace a tap?

A straightforward tap replacement typically takes 30-60 minutes per tap. Kitchen mixer taps or special installations may take slightly longer. We'll ensure everything is properly installed, sealed, and tested before completing the job.

Why does my toilet keep running after flushing?

A constantly running toilet is typically caused by a faulty flush valve, damaged flapper, or problems with the fill valve. This wastes significant amounts of water and should be fixed promptly. We can quickly identify and repair the specific component causing the issue.

Can you fix a toilet that won't flush properly?

Yes, we resolve weak or incomplete flushing issues which may be caused by partial blockages, problems with the siphon or flush valve, incorrect water levels in the cistern, or limescale build-up in the rim jets or siphon.

Why is my toilet leaking at the base?

Leaks at the base of the toilet are usually caused by a failed wax ring or seal between the toilet and waste pipe. This requires lifting the toilet to replace the seal. We can perform this repair efficiently and ensure everything is properly sealed and secure.

How do you fix a toilet that keeps blocking?

For recurring blockages, we first clear the immediate blockage, then investigate the underlying cause. This might include checking for partial obstructions in the toilet trap or waste pipe, inspecting for inadequate flushing power, or identifying issues with the main drainage system.

Is it worth repairing an old toilet or should I replace it?

If your toilet is frequently requiring repairs, is very old (pre-2001), uses excessive water (more than 6 litres per flush), or has cracks in the porcelain, replacement might be more economical. Modern toilets offer better flushing performance and significant water savings. We can advise on repair versus replacement based on your specific situation.