During freezing weather, one of the most common boiler breakdowns is a frozen condensate pipe. As experienced Gas Safe registered heating engineers serving all areas of Leicestershire, Gas Care Plus is here to help you stay safe, keep your heating running, and avoid unnecessary boiler faults.
If your condensate pipe freezes, your boiler will often shut down for safety, leaving you without heating or hot water. Below is expert guidance from Gas Care Plus on how to deal with it safely.
For immediate advice or to book a service, call 07704 141410.
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What Is a Condensate Pipe?
Modern condensing boilers produce acidic wastewater known as “condensate”. This liquid exits your boiler through a condensate pipe, usually a white or grey plastic waste pipe running outside your property.
In freezing temperatures, any water sitting in this pipe can freeze and block the system.
Typical boiler symptoms include:
• No heating or hot water
• Gurgling noises
• Boiler lockout
• Fault codes related to “condensate” or “blocked pipe”
If you’re in Leicester City, Loughborough, Hinckley, Coalville, Melton Mowbray, Market Harborough, Lutterworth, Birstall, Wigston, Oadby, Syston, Ashby-de-la-Zouch, or any surrounding villages, Gas Care Plus can help quickly.
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How to Thaw a Frozen Condensate Pipe – Safely
1. Locate the Condensate Pipe
Look for a plastic waste pipe (21–32mm) leaving the boiler and running outside.
2. Warm the Pipe
Use warm water ONLY (never boiling).
Pour it slowly over the frozen sections or apply a hot water bottle.
3. Reset the Boiler
Once thawed, press the boiler reset button.
If the boiler still won’t fire, call Gas Care Plus on 07704 141410.
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Prevention – Stop Your Condensate Pipe Freezing Again
Gas Care Plus provides full gas, heating and plumbing services across Leicestershire, including:
✔ Condensate Pipe Insulation
Weatherproof lagging prevents ice build-up.
✔ 32mm Pipe Upgrades
Larger pipework reduces freezing.
✔ Condensate Trace Heaters
Heated cables automatically stop freezing in low temperatures.
✔ Boiler Servicing & Safety Checks
Annual boiler servicing, gas safety inspections, and full heating system checks reduce the chances of winter breakdowns.
✔ Plumbing Repairs & Drainage Work
Including frozen pipes, leaks, blocked drains, and emergency plumbing call-outs.
✔ Boiler Repairs & Replacements
We repair all major boiler brands and install energy-efficient A-rated boilers.
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Why Choose Gas Care Plus in Leicestershire?
Gas Care Plus is your trusted local provider for:
• Gas Safe registered boiler engineers
• Central heating repairs & installations
• Plumbing maintenance & emergency callouts
• Landlord gas safety certificates (CP12)
• Smart thermostat installation (Hive, Nest, etc.)
• Radiator repairs, power flushing, & system upgrades
We cover every area of Leicestershire, including:
Leicester, Beaumont Leys, Evington, Hamilton, Saffron Lane, Wigston, Oadby, Loughborough, Shepshed, Hinckley, Barwell, Earl Shilton, Coalville, Ashby-de-la-Zouch, Melton, Market Harborough, Syston, Birstall, Thurmaston, Lutterworth, and all surrounding villages.
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Need Help Right Now?
If your condensate pipe is frozen or your boiler won’t turn on, contact:
📞 Gas Care Plus – 07704 141410
Your local gas, heating & plumbing experts in Leicestershire.
We’re always happy to offer free advice, professional repairs, and fast emergency service.
