Gas Board repairs

[Ric.ror]

My elderly mothers water is not heating up due, I supect to the boiler not firing up as it is not in use for her heating at the moment. How much do you think British Gas will charge to call out and remedy this?- Approx will do

[merciasounds]

a couple of teaspoonsful of gin perhaps

[Ric.ror]

Well they aren't getting mine

[The Builder]

Are you sure the programmer is set properly? It shouldn't make any difference that the heating is turned off. There should be a setting for hot water only.
As for British Gas ................ well, they do know how to charge!!
Could you ask around for a decent local plumber/heating engineer. Also, ask at your local plumbers' or builders' merchants for names. They deal with these guys all the time and would be glad to pass you onto someone sensible.

[Ric.ror]

Thanks for this
The BG guy came and said the boiler was obsolete - despite being at the very most 5 years old - he was young and really nice to my Mum so she trusted him. He had to put a sticker on the boiler to say it was not working. We have since made an appointment for someone from BG to come and give her a quote for a new boiler. I agree that they are costly but its the sense of well being she will get that we are paying for. I am getting a new heating sysem in my own home soon and will use a local guy for that - but for the old lady's piece of mind I think we will go with BG for her

[redcrx]

i know youve chosen to go with BG, but i would get a second opinion on the boiler if it is only 5 years old.

[Ric.ror]

He said it would be impossible to get parts for the boiler. I must add the flat is an ex-council flat we think the company who took over the running of the flats from the council put in 'not the best quality' shall we say double glazing and new boilers. Mum then bought her flat but to be honest she had minor problems from the start with it.
I hope this is not too rambling for you

[jackthehat]

ric.ror - It is in the best interests of BG to get you to needlessly fork out for a new boiler. They are just as capable of 'sharp practice' as any other company.
I would certainly get an independent 'someone' in to confirm what the BG chap has said is based on fact.........

[maclarencat]

Before you go ahead if you are in England speak to warmfront. It maybe that your mother can get a boiler for free. They will also check if she needs loft insulation and cavity wall insulation. It is means tested but if she is on a limited income they may be able to help.www.warmfront.co.uk