Boiler Service Guide: Ensuring your boiler is hazard free

🕑 7 minutes read

Your gas-powered central heating boiler plays a vital role in keeping your home warm and cosy. Having confidence that your heating system is running efficiently, safely and economically in the winter months is of prime importance.

Moreover, it's about safety—ensuring your boiler is free from hazards like gas leaks and carbon monoxide leakages.

This guide will outline a few practical tips to keep your boiler running smoothly and safely.

What Is A Boiler Service?
“A boiler service is like a health checkup for your boiler.”

A Gas-safe engineer looks at your boiler to ensure it works well. They check things like the pressure and how the gas flows to make sure everything is just right. By giving your boiler a little health checkup, you can keep it happy and working properly.

During the service, the engineer will take off the boiler's cover to inspect its various parts, like the burner, heat exchanger, and spark sensor probe. They will also assess the gas rate, which is the amount of gas the appliance consumes.

During a serviceteam boiler service at a London Property

During a Worcester Bosch boiler service

How Often Should You Schedule a Boiler Service?

Once every year.
When did you do your last boiler service? It is highly advised to schedule an annual boiler service for optimal functionality and safety.

For homeowners, the importance of regular boiler servicing is likely well-known. This routine maintenance is crucial for identifying and preventing potential issues, including water or gas leaks. Failure to conduct an annual boiler service may compromise its performance, resulting in emergency breakdowns and, potentially, voiding your warranty.

How Much Does a Boiler Service Cost?

On average, you can expect to pay around £80 - £100 (Excluding VAT).
The cost of boiler servicing in the UK varies depending on your boiler type.

“Most registered Gas Safe engineers provide this one-off charge, which usually takes 30 minutes to complete.”

Rest assured that this service ensures the proper maintenance and performance of your boiler.

How Long Does a Boiler Service Take?

Modern boilers can undergo thorough servicing in as little as 30 minutes, while gas boilers may require approximately 1 to 2 hours.

Investing in servicing is highly advantageous in the long term, ensuring seamless and safe operation of your boilers. Moreover, regular servicing enhances boiler efficiency, leading to reduced energy costs. Rest assured that timely maintenance will yield substantial benefits for your home heating system.

Boiler Type	Cost + VAT
Gas boiler	£80 - £120
Oil boiler	£75 - £120
Electric combi boiler	£65 - £100
Commercial boiler	£150 - £300

Average cost for boiler service in London, 2023

We've made a comprehensive guide that explains what is covered during a boiler service. If you're curious to know more, check it out!

Boiler Service Tips

Regular Servicing
An annual boiler service will maintain peak efficiency and the boiler's safety. Regular servicing often helps identify and address issues early, preventing costly breakdowns.

Choose Only a Gas Safe Engineer
Always hire a Gas Safe registered engineer for your boiler service. Their registration with Gas Safe ensures the engineer is qualified and authorised to work safely on your gas appliances.
Look for Early Warning Signs
Like unusual noises, odours, or changes in your boiler's performance, if you notice any of these signs, arrange for a system inspection immediately.

In Prepare for the Service
Before the engineer arrives, ensure clear access to your boiler and its surroundings. Remove any clutter or obstacles that might hinder the inspection.
Be Inquisitive
Don't hesitate to ask questions during the service. A reputable engineer will gladly share valuable maintenance tips to help you save both time and money.
Home Safety - Invest in a Carbon Monoxide Alarm
Install a carbon monoxide (CO) detector near or next to your boiler. Carbon Monoxide (CO) is a silent and deadly gas that can leak from faulty boilers. A Carbon Monoxide Alarm gives that extra layer of safety.
Keep Records
Maintain a record of your boiler servicing history, including dates and findings. This documentation can be valuable for warranties and future servicing.

A well-maintained boiler will keep your home cosy and warm and give you hot water on demand.
Consider a Service Plan
Some boiler manufacturers offer service plans that cover annual servicing and repairs. These plans can provide peace of mind and save you money in the long run.

Arranging a Boiler Service

An opened boiler case during annual boiler service in London

The engineer has removed the boiler case during an annual boiler service

Step 1: Find a Qualified Engineer
The first and most crucial step in arranging a boiler service is to engage a qualified gas engineer.
Here's how:

Gas Safe Register
The Gas Safe Register is the authorised list of engineers certified to work safely with gas appliances. A professional Gas-safe engineer will be familiar with the make and model of your boiler and skilled in their approach. Their legal accreditation assures you receive a high-quality and safe service for your boiler.

Check out Recommendations
Ask friends, family, or neighbours for recommendations. Personal referrals can help you find qualified and experienced engineers.

Step 2: Contact the Engineer or Service Provider
Once you've identified a potential engineer or service provider, it's time to get in touch:

call icon to indicate contacting the service provider

Make the Call
Reach out to the engineer or company and inquire about their availability for a boiler service. Be prepared to provide some essential details, including your location, the make and model of your boiler, and any specific issues or concerns.

Ask About Costs
Clarify the service cost. Some companies offer fixed-price boiler services, while others may charge based on the type of boiler.

Step 3: Confirm the Appointment

Confirm the date and time of the service. Ensure it aligns with your schedule, allowing you to be present during the inspection.

What's Included: Discuss the scope of the service. Typical boiler services include safety checks, cleaning, inspection of key components and testing.

Step 4: Prepare for the Service
As the service date approaches, take these preparatory steps:

Clear Access
Ensure the engineer has clear and unobstructed access to the boiler. Remove any clutter or items that might hinder the engineer's inspection.

Be Present

Whenever possible, be present during the service.
Clarify what the service will include.

This allows you to ask questions, receive insights, and address concerns directly.

Step 5: During the Service
Here's what to expect during the boiler service;

Safety Checks
Your boiler technician will conduct thorough safety checks to ensure your boiler operates safely. This also includes testing for gas leaks and carbon monoxide (CO) emissions.

Cleaning and Inspection
The engineer will clean and inspect various components of your boiler, including the burner, heat exchanger, and controls. They may also test the system's pressure and ventilation.

boiler check in a London property by a serviceteam engineer

Gas safety check at a property

Documentation
Request a detailed report after the service. It should outline what was checked, any issues identified, and actions taken. This documentation is valuable for your records and warranty claims against the boiler manufacturer.

Regular boiler servicing and boiler repairs are essential for home warmth and safety. By following these tips or scheduling an annual service; you ensure that your boiler operates efficiently, lasts longer, and remains safe. Book your service before winter is upon us and avoid the rush!

Book a Serviceteam Boiler Service!

A serviceteam engineer visits a London property for an annual boiler service

At serviceteam London, our heating engineers are available 24/7 for boiler service or any emergency boiler repairs in London and the surrounding areas.

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