Boiler not working in freezing temperatures?
If your boiler has stopped working in freezing temperatures, then there is a good chance that your condensate pipe has frozen. Luckily, this isn't a big problem and it can be easily resolved yourself without the need for a heating engineer. This page will provide you with all the information needed to help you defrost your condensate pipe.
Condensing boilers require an additional pipe to be fitted to carry away waste water that forms as a result of the normal condensing process. This is called the condensate pipe, it is normally plastic and runs from the boiler to a household drainage system or soakaway outside.
Evidence of condensed water running through the condensate pipe is an indication that your boiler is working normally.
The condensate pipe runs from the boiler to a suitable existing waste pipe system, or external drain pipe. If it is connected to an external drain pipe, it will be found outside your property leading out from your boiler. Prolonged periods of freezing weather can cause this pipe to freeze, affecting the operation of the boiler.
If part of your condensate pipework is outside and does freeze during a prolonged period of very cold weather, you might hear a gurgling noise coming from the boiler and if your boiler has a digital display, you may see an ‘EA’ error code too. There’s no need to worry if your condensate pipe freezes. You can usually thaw it safely without the need to call an installer or engineer.
*It's usually white plastic connecting to an external drain
*Not boiling water
*If the pipe is defrosted
Your boiler is at the heart of your home. It provides comfort on cold nights, and hot showers before a hard day, so having a reliable boiler is a must.
Get ready for winter and replace an older, G-rated boiler with a modern, A-rated boiler with full heating controls could help you save up to £500 a year on your gas bills*.
*Source EST 2026 July 2026. Estimated figures based on installing a new A-rated condensing boiler with a programmer, room thermostat and thermostatic radiator controls (TRVs) in a gas heated detached GB home, from an older, G-rated boiler with a programmer and room thermostat. Savings will vary depending on the size and thermal performance of your home. https://energysavingtrust.org.uk/advice/boilers/
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