Boiler Repairs We've Carried Out in Tonbridge
We recently carried out a boiler repair in Tonbridge where a homeowner's combi boiler had lost central heating while hot water continued to work normally — a classic sign of a stuck diverter valve. The diverter valve controls whether the boiler's output goes to the radiators or the hot water circuit, and when it sticks in the domestic hot water position, the heating simply won't come on regardless of the thermostat setting. We replaced the diverter valve cartridge on site and had the heating back up and running the same afternoon.
Stuck diverter valves are particularly common on Vaillant, Worcester Bosch and Ideal boilers that are more than 8–10 years old. The valve can stick gradually — you may notice the heating taking longer to come on, or running at lower temperatures than before, before failing completely. In Tonbridge's older housing stock where boilers often go many years without a service, this is one of the most frequent faults we attend. We carry diverter valve cartridges for all major boiler brands on the van and can usually complete the repair in under two hours.
Common Boiler Faults We Fix in Tonbridge
Most boiler faults can be diagnosed and fixed on a single visit.
No Hot Water
Usually a diverter valve or blocked plate heat exchanger. We carry parts for all major brands and can fix most cases same-day.
No Central Heating
Stuck diverter valve, faulty pump, or thermostat/control issue. We diagnose the exact fault before recommending any repair.
Boiler Losing Pressure
System leak, faulty PRV or waterlogged expansion vessel. We find the root cause rather than just topping up and leaving.
Boiler Locking Out
Ignition failure, frozen condensate pipe, or error code fault. We find the root cause and fix it properly, not just reset it.
Boiler Making Noise
Kettling, banging or gurgling usually indicates limescale build-up, sludge or a failing pump. We diagnose and advise on the best fix.
Pilot Light Issues
A pilot light that won't stay lit usually points to a faulty thermocouple or gas valve. Repairable on the same visit in most cases.
Repair or Replace?
We'll always give you an honest answer at the visit.
As a rough guide: if your boiler is under 8 years old, a repair almost always makes sense. If it's over 12–15 years old with recurring faults, a new boiler is usually better value long-term — lower bills, manufacturer warranty and no more repair callouts. We'll quote for both options so you can make an informed decision.
New boiler installations from £1,800 fully fitted. Repairs quoted before we start — no hidden extras.