Households are being warned about the potential dangers of trying to fix their own heating systems, with local technicians revealing their top ‘DIY fails’.

The most common bodged heating repair jobs include homeowners attempting to fix or replace their own boiler when it has broken down, installing a new oil tank or moving an existing one, incorrectly blocking up flues and trying to fit new radiators.

Malcolm Farrow, from OFTEC, which represents the oil heating industry, commented: “Many households will be thinking about tackling those long overdue home repairs. However, when it comes to heating systems of all types, it’s important to leave it to the experts.

“Trying to fix or service a heating system yourself could easily create a potential fire hazard, fuel or water leak, or put you at risk of Carbon Monoxide (CO) poisoning. CO is a highly poisonous gas caused by incomplete combustion. You can’t see it, taste it or smell it and it can kill quickly with no warning.

“OFTEC heating technicians have highlighted numerous cases where they have been called out to repair damage caused by attempted DIY jobs. Not only has this left families in the cold but it has created even more problems, making the heating system more expensive and time consuming to repair.

”Households experiencing problems with their heating systems are advised to always contact a local Gas Safe (for gas heating) or OFTEC registered technician (for heating oil and solid fuel) to deal with the issue professionally.

Malcolm added: “Now is the time to get your heating system serviced to check it is working correctly and efficiently. If you use an OFTEC registered technician you can be confident the work will be completed to a high standard.

“Whilst it is tempting to try and save money by doing any work yourself, with the price of heating oil so low, households are currently benefitting from huge cost savings. We recommend putting a little of this money aside to employ a professional who can safely carry out the work, providing you with complete peace of mind.”

Follow these links find a local OFTEC or Gas Safe technician.