Regular boiler servicing helps keep your heating system safe, reliable and working as it should. It can also uncover faults before they develop into more expensive problems.
Here are the answers to some of the most common questions about boiler servicing.
How often should a boiler be serviced?
Most boilers should be serviced once a year. You should check the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific boiler, but an annual service is the usual recommendation.
If your boiler is still under warranty, annual servicing may be one of the conditions. Missing a service could affect your cover, so it is worth checking the terms provided by the manufacturer.
Why does a boiler need servicing?
Your boiler is used regularly throughout the year, particularly during the colder months. Parts can wear down over time, and faults are not always obvious until the boiler stops working.
An annual boiler service allows an engineer to check that the appliance is operating safely and correctly. It can help to:
- Identify worn or damaged components
- Spot leaks, corrosion or pressure problems
- Reduce the risk of a breakdown
- Maintain the boiler’s warranty
- Check whether the boiler is working efficiently
- Extend the working life of the appliance
Servicing will not prevent every possible fault, but it can reduce the chance of problems going unnoticed.
Who can service a boiler?
Gas boilers must be serviced by a Gas Safe registered engineer who is qualified to work on that type of appliance.
You can ask to see the engineer’s Gas Safe ID card before they begin. The back of the card lists the types of gas work they are qualified to carry out.
Boiler servicing should never be attempted as a DIY job. Removing the casing or working on gas components without the right training can be dangerous and may invalidate the manufacturer’s warranty.
Oil boilers should be serviced by a suitably qualified technician, such as an OFTEC registered engineer.
How long does a boiler service take?
A standard boiler service usually takes between 45 minutes and one hour.
The appointment may take longer if the boiler is difficult to access, requires cleaning or has a fault that needs further investigation.
Repairs and replacement parts are not always included in the cost of a standard service. If the engineer finds a problem, they should explain what is needed and confirm any additional costs before carrying out further work.
What does a boiler service involve?
The exact checks will depend on the boiler’s make and model. The engineer should follow the manufacturer’s servicing instructions.
A boiler service will usually include:
- Checking the boiler for leaks, corrosion or visible damage
- Inspecting the flue and ventilation
- Testing the controls and safety devices
- Checking the boiler pressure
- Taking combustion readings
- Inspecting seals and internal components
- Cleaning parts where required
- Checking the heating and hot water
- Recording the results of the service
The engineer may also ask whether you have noticed any unusual noises, pressure loss or changes in the performance of your heating or hot water.
Is a boiler service the same as a gas safety check?
No. Although some of the checks may overlap, a boiler service and a gas safety check have different purposes.
A boiler service looks at the condition, operation and maintenance of the appliance. A landlord gas safety check confirms that the gas appliances and flues provided in a rented property are safe to use.
Landlords must arrange gas safety checks every year. They are also responsible for ensuring gas appliances are properly maintained.
What happens if the engineer finds a problem?
The engineer should explain the fault, whether it is safe to continue using the boiler and what work is needed.
Small adjustments or cleaning may be completed during the service. Larger repairs or replacement parts may need to be quoted separately.
If the boiler is unsafe, the engineer may need to switch it off until the fault has been repaired. You should not continue using an appliance that has been identified as unsafe.
Book boiler servicing in Southampton
If your boiler is due a service, C.S. Plumbing and Heating Services can help. Our Gas Safe registered engineers provide boiler servicing across Southampton and the surrounding areas.
We will check your boiler thoroughly, explain any issues we find and let you know if further work is needed. Annual boiler servicing is also available through our Home Guard plans, which include a heating system health check and start from £7 per month. Call 0800 015 61 71 or contact our team for a free quote.