Gloworm Boiler Ignition Problems!!!

stressedoutmumof1

I have a Gloworm Fuelsaver 35F boiler in my kitchen, but it just takes ages to light. It clicks and clicks and clicks and then eventually lights (about 10 mins later).

Does anyone know what the problem could be, and whether my husband (an electrician) would be able to fix it.

Many thanks

Str4berr3

HA!

I have the exact same problem, My Housing Association says it is'nt a emergency to fix, but still waiting for 2nd, 3rd 4th etc priority to fix (been about six months now) It does'nt bother me that much as I just have to make sure I have enought gas in meter for it to keep switched on.

I have for many occassions drank my coffee, had a fag and read a artical in a magazine while finger still on button before it is ok.

The longest I have pressed the button is 16 minutes!! finger was pretty stiff after that.

jimmyjim_uk

I'm not to familiar with this boiler. It must be fairly old as it doesn't trip out and give you an error code. Most new boilers trip out within a minute or two and blink an error code at you.

It could just be dirt, when was the last time you serviced the boiler?

stressedoutmumof1

The boiler is about 12 years old I think - it used to get regular services but since we moved in (7 years ago it hasn't had one! Naughty I know!!)

My husband has taken it apart and given it a good clean (well blew all dust out etc etc)

I read somewhere that it might be the thermocoupler (is that right!?!)

paul_h

I would advise getting the boiler serviced, especially if the burner flame is showing much yellow. Cleaning the burner and resetting the gas pressure will save you gas and money, and the boiler will be checked for gas and fume leaks.

As for your ignition problems, if it hasn't been serviced for a few years it might need the pilot cleaning or adjusting, or the piezo ignitor tip (like a small spark plug) might need cleaning or may simply be worn out. They do need replacing from time to time, especially if used regularly.

Also, make sure you are using the correct relighting procedure, instructions are usually printed somewhere inside the casing. There will be a delay after the flame goes out before the pilot will relight - to allow any collected gas in the burner chamber to disperse.

The thermocouple monitors the pilot flame and shuts of the gas valve if it goes out - it's called a 'flame failure device'. This will only be your problem if the pilot won't stay lit when you take your finger off the button and release the gas override, or if it goes out intermittently. It sounds like it's OK once it's lit, so it's unlikely that this will be the problem.

Incidentally, if you need to replace it, one of the cheap 'universal' thermocouple kits will fit these boilers and they are relatively easy to fit.

bruce2110

gloworm fuel savers... common fault is the thermocouple, as paul_f says, a unversal thermocouple will fit (about £6.00 incl vat from plumb centre or any resanoble merchants), should be able to change himself just replace old for new exactly as old part came out...

n.b. all maint work carried out on any gas appliance should be carried out by a registered CORGI ENGINEER if unsure always consult a professional installer.