Expert Advice
Heating & Plumbing Guides
Detailed guides written by Halo Heating's Gas Safe engineers — covering boilers, heat pumps, energy saving, safety, and more.
The Complete Guide to Buying a New Boiler
Replacing a boiler is one of the biggest home investments you'll make. This guide walks you through everything — from choosing the right type to understanding costs and warranties.
Air Source Heat Pump Buying Guide
Air source heat pumps are the future of home heating — but are they right for your property? This guide covers everything from suitability to costs and the BUS grant.
Understanding Central Heating System Types
Not all central heating systems are the same. This guide explains the key differences between combi, system, and heat-only systems so you can make informed decisions.
Gas Safety: The Homeowner's Guide
Gas appliances are safe when properly maintained — but knowing the basics of gas safety could save your life. This guide covers everything homeowners need to know.
Power Flushing: The Complete Homeowner's Guide
Cold radiators, noisy pipes, and slow warm-up times often point to system sludge. This guide explains what power flushing is, when you need it, and what to expect.
What to Expect During a Boiler Service
Annual boiler servicing is essential — but many homeowners don't know what it actually involves. Here's a clear breakdown of what happens during a professional boiler service.
Heat Pump vs Gas Boiler: A Detailed Comparison
Should you replace your gas boiler with a heat pump? We compare running costs, installation, efficiency, and suitability to help you decide.
Oil Heating Systems: The Complete Guide
Heating oil is the most popular fuel for off-grid rural homes. This guide explains how oil heating systems work, what they cost, and how to maintain them.
LPG Heating: Everything You Need to Know
LPG is a popular gas alternative for off-grid homes. This guide covers how LPG heating works, tank options, costs, and whether switching to a heat pump makes sense.
Underfloor Heating: Types, Costs, and Installation
Underfloor heating provides even, luxurious warmth and pairs brilliantly with heat pumps. This guide explains the two main types, installation considerations, and running costs.
UK Boiler Brands Compared: Worcester, Vaillant, Viessmann & More
There are dozens of boiler brands available in the UK. This guide compares the most popular options to help you choose the right one for your home.
Combi Boiler Guide: Everything You Need to Know
Combi boilers heat 70% of UK homes. This guide explains how they work, their advantages and limitations, and whether one is right for your property.
System Boiler Guide: When and Why to Choose One
System boilers are the ideal choice for larger homes and families with high hot water demand. This guide explains how they work and when they're the right option.
Boiler Grants and Finance: How to Pay for a New Boiler
A new boiler doesn't have to break the bank. This guide explains all the grants, schemes, and finance options available to UK homeowners in 2025.
Smart Heating Controls: Thermostats, Apps, and Scheduling
Smart thermostats and heating controls can reduce your bills and give you complete control over your home comfort. This guide explains what's available and what suits different homes.
Radiator Maintenance: A Complete DIY Guide
Keeping your radiators in good condition improves comfort and reduces energy bills. This guide covers everything from bleeding to balancing and TRV maintenance.
Boiler Pressure: Everything You Need to Know
Boiler pressure problems are one of the most common homeowner queries. This guide explains what correct pressure is, what causes changes, and when to call an engineer.
Carbon Monoxide: Detection, Prevention, and Safety
Carbon monoxide is a silent, odourless killer. Every homeowner with gas, oil, or solid fuel appliances needs to understand the risks and how to protect their family.
Making Your Heating System More Energy Efficient
With energy bills remaining high, improving the efficiency of your heating system is one of the best investments you can make. Here's a practical guide to meaningful improvements.
Landlord Heating Obligations: Your Complete Legal Guide
As a landlord, you have significant legal obligations around heating and gas safety. This guide explains exactly what the law requires and how to stay compliant.
The Boiler Installation Process: Step by Step
Worried about what a boiler installation involves? This guide walks you through every step — from the initial survey to commissioning and handover.
Emergency Plumbing: What to Do in a Heating Emergency
Burst pipes, boiler failures, and flooding don't wait for convenient moments. This guide explains exactly what to do in a heating or plumbing emergency.
Magnetic System Filters: Why You Need One
A magnetic filter is one of the most cost-effective investments you can make for your central heating system. This guide explains what they do and why they matter.
Heat Pump Grants: The Boiler Upgrade Scheme Guide
The government's Boiler Upgrade Scheme offers £7,500 towards a heat pump installation. This guide explains how to claim it, who qualifies, and what to expect.
Winter Heating Preparation: A Homeowner's Checklist
Don't wait for a breakdown to find out your heating system isn't ready for winter. This checklist covers everything to do before the cold weather arrives.
Boiler Error Codes: A Guide for Homeowners
Modern boilers display error codes when something goes wrong. This guide explains the most common codes for leading brands and what they mean.
How Long Do Gas Boilers Last? Maximising Boiler Lifespan
A well-maintained gas boiler should last 10–15 years. This guide explains what affects boiler lifespan and how to get the most years from your investment.
Heat Pump Installation: What to Expect
Thinking about getting a heat pump installed? This guide walks you through the entire process — from the initial survey through to handover and optimisation.
Boiler Cover and Care Plans: What's Worth Paying For?
Boiler cover plans vary enormously in what they offer and what they cost. This guide helps you understand what to look for and what to avoid.
Commercial Heating Systems: An Overview for Business Owners
Commercial heating is more complex than domestic. This guide gives business owners an overview of the main system types, compliance requirements, and maintenance best practices.
Bleeding Radiators: A Definitive Guide
Bleeding a radiator is one of the simplest DIY heating tasks — but many people don't know when to do it or how. This definitive guide covers everything you need to know.
Boiler Replacement Checklist: What to Ask Your Engineer
Before committing to a new boiler installation, make sure you're asking the right questions. This checklist helps you choose the right engineer and the right boiler.
Renewable Heating Options for UK Homes
Gas boilers won't be around forever. This guide explores all the renewable heating options available to UK homeowners, from heat pumps to biomass and solar thermal.
Gas Safe Register Explained: Why Certification Matters
Only Gas Safe registered engineers are legally permitted to work on gas appliances. This guide explains what the register is, how to check it, and why it matters.
Low Water Pressure: Causes, Fixes, and When to Call a Plumber
Poor water pressure affects showers, taps, and your heating system's performance. This guide explains the common causes and what you can do about them.
Thermostat Guide: Types, Settings, and Efficiency Tips
Your thermostat is one of the most important controls in your home. This guide explains the different types available and how to use them to maximise comfort and efficiency.
Boiler Inhibitor: What It Is and Why You Need It
Heating system inhibitor protects your boiler and pipework from corrosion. This guide explains what inhibitor is, how it works, and how to ensure your system is protected.
OFGEM Energy Grants: What Homeowners Can Claim
There are several government and Ofgem-backed energy schemes available to UK homeowners. This guide explains what's available, who qualifies, and how to apply.
Heat Pump Running Costs: Are They Really Cheaper?
Heat pumps are highly efficient, but electricity costs more than gas. This detailed guide explores the real running costs and when a heat pump genuinely saves money.
Condensate Pipes: What They Do and How to Maintain Them
The condensate pipe is a critical but often overlooked part of a condensing boiler. This guide explains what it does, why it freezes in winter, and how to prevent problems.
Need Personalised Advice?
Our Gas Safe registered engineers are happy to answer your questions and provide free, no-obligation quotes for any heating or plumbing work across Surrey.