Troubleshooting, Costs & When to Call a Professional

When winter hits hard in Canada, your boiler becomes the unsung hero of your home or business. But what happens when it fails? Whether you’re dealing with no heat, strange noises, or a sudden leak, knowing what to do—and what it might cost—can save you both time and money.

In this guide, we’ll cover the essential information every Canadian homeowner or

property manager should know about boiler repair.

1. Signs Your Boiler Needs Repair

Don’t wait until your system shuts down completely. Here are early warning signs to watch out for:

• No heat or hot water
• Unusual banging or whistling noises (known as “kettling”)
• Low boiler pressure (typically under 1 bar)
• Leaking or dripping
• Boiler turning off frequently
• Radiators not heating evenly
• Pilot light keeps going out (in older models)

These symptoms can be caused by anything from airlocks and thermostat issues to broken valves or pump failure.

2. DIY Checks Before You Call an Engineer

Before calling a professional, you can perform these safe troubleshooting steps:

• Check the thermostat – Is it on “heat”? Is the temperature set high enough?
• Inspect the pressure gauge – If it’s below 1 bar, your system may need repressurizing.
• Reset the boiler – Most modern boilers have a reset button. Consult your manual.
• Bleed your radiators – Cold spots in radiators may be caused by trapped air.
• Check the power supply – Make sure the boiler is plugged in and circuit breakers haven’t tripped.

Warning: Never remove the boiler casing or attempt to repair gas connections unless you’re a licensed technician. In Canada,

this is illegal and unsafe.

3. Average Boiler Repair Costs in Canada (2024)

Costs depend on the type of boiler, parts needed, and whether it’s an emergency callout.

Repair TypeAverage Cost (CAD)Thermostat replacement$150 – $300Pump or valve repair$200 – $500Fan or ignition system fix$300 – $600Heat exchanger replacement$800 – $1,500+Minor leak repair$150 – $400Emergency call-out (nights/weekends)$200 – $500+

Tip: Repairs in major cities like Toronto or Vancouver may be higher due to labour rates.

4. When to Call a Professional Boiler Engineer

Call an HVAC technician if:

• Your boiler is leaking water or gas
• There’s a persistent error code you don’t understand
• The pilot light won’t stay on
• The unit makes loud or concerning noises
• You smell gas — in this case, turn off the main gas valve and evacuate immediately

In Canada, always choose a TSSA-certified or Gas Safe (or provincial equivalent) technician.

5. Emergency vs. Scheduled Repairs

Emergency Repairs

• No heat in freezing weather
• Gas leaks or water flooding
• Sudden total shutdown

Costs more, but many companies offer

same-day service (e.g. British Gas claims 80% of calls before 11am get same-day repair).

Scheduled Repairs

• Boiler still working but showing warning signs
• Cheaper and often easier to schedule during spring/summer

6. Boiler Repair Plans: Are They Worth It?

Companies like British Gas, Vaillant, and HomeServe offer repair+cover packages. Common features:

Plan FeatureIncluded?One-off repairYes (usually up to $1,500 value)12 months of coverYesUnlimited calloutsYesLabour and parts includedYesMonthly fee$30 – $60/month (avg.)

Ideal for:

• Older boilers

• Homes in remote or colder regions
• Those who want predictable annual costs

7. When to Replace Instead of Repair

Sometimes, repair isn’t the smart choice.

Replace if:

• Your boiler is over 15 years old
• Repairs are costing you more than 50% of the price of a new boiler
• It breaks down more than once a year
• It has a cracked heat exchanger (costly and dangerous)
• You notice inefficiency (skyrocketing energy bills)

Modern condensing boilers are up to 30% more efficient, which can translate to hundreds in annual savings.

8. Preventing Future

Breakdowns

The best repair is the one you never need. Preventive steps include:

• Annual service by a licensed technician
• Regular filter and condensate drain cleaning
• Checking boiler pressure monthly
• Bleeding radiators seasonally
• Installing a smart thermostat to avoid overuse

9. Choosing the Right Repair Provider

When hiring, look for:

• Proper certification (e.g., TSSA, HRAI)
• Positive online reviews
• Emergency support availability
• Clear pricing structure (e.g., no fix, no fee policies)
• Technicians experienced with your boiler brand (especially Vaillant,

Worcester, Navien, etc.)

Bonus Tip: Ask if they offer financing options or boiler rental programs, especially if a replacement may be needed.

Final Thoughts

Boiler breakdowns in Canada are more than just inconvenient — they can be downright dangerous. Being proactive, performing simple checks, and knowing when to call a professional are key to keeping your home warm, your family safe, and your wallet protected.

Need a repair fast? Don’t wait. Book a trusted local HVAC pro and consider ongoing coverage for long-term peace of mind.