Wallstar Oil Boiler Problems

Many homeowners have relied on the HRM Wallstar Boiler for their home heating needs. For some, the experience has been largely positive, but like all machinery, issues can arise over time. Here are some of the problems homeowners have encountered with their Wallstar Boiler and possible solutions.

1. Intermittent Heating Issue

A homeowner reported that after around 4 years of usage, the boiler didn’t always activate as expected. The problem escalated to the point where the heating rarely turned on by itself. The manual override button needed to be pressed multiple times for the boiler to start, which is particularly distressing during cold months.

Possible Solutions:

• If you’ve had a plumber attending to the issue without resolution, it’s advisable to consult a specialized engineer, especially someone with expertise in oil boilers.
• It’s possible that the problem might not be with the boiler itself, but with the motorised valve on the system. A sluggish or sticking valve could cause inconsistent heating. Replacing the motorhead might solve the issue.
• It could also be a simple fix like fitting a new nozzle or adjusting the settings. Using tools like flue gas analysers can help pinpoint the exact issue.

2. Boiler Tripping the Electricity

Another user reported the boiler intermittently causing electricity trips. The boiler would sometimes run for about 20 minutes, while at other times, it would trip the electricity immediately upon being switched on.

Possible Solutions:

• Immediate consultation with an Oftec engineer is recommended. Their specialization in oil boilers can lead to an efficient diagnosis of the problem.

3. Intermittent Lock-Outs

There are a few common reasons why Wallstar boilers might experience intermittent lock-outs:

• A faulty solenoid coil that goes open circuit when it’s hot.
• A malfunctioning ignition transformer that doesn’t always produce an output.
• Air entering the system from mechanical joints in the oil line.
• A defective non-return valve, which in the Wallstar’s case is located in the fire valve.

Possible Solutions:

• Given the technical nature of these issues, consulting a service engineer is strongly advised over a general plumber.

General Advice:

• Ensure you are hiring an experienced and knowledgeable technician to avoid unnecessary service charges and prolonged inconveniences. Ask for recommendations from neighbors or other homeowners who have had similar issues.
• If a technician is unable to resolve the problem after multiple visits, consider not paying additional costs until the issue is resolved. After all, the expectation is for the problem to be fixed.
• For issues specific to oil boilers, always seek out experts, such as OFTEC registered engineers.

In conclusion, while the HRM Wallstar Boiler is known for its reliability, it is not immune to issues. Should problems arise, it’s crucial to approach them with a methodical mindset and to seek out specialized expertise when necessary. This will ensure that the boiler runs efficiently and safely, keeping your home warm and comfortable.