A boiler service makes sure your boiler works well and safely. It keeps your boiler in a good functioning shape. Moreover, as energy prices rise and winters get chillier, you don’t want your boiler to fail and leave you freezing. So to keep your boiler working well, it needs regular servicing. But what exactly happens during a service, and when should you get one?

This blog will tell you all about the inspections and checks done during a boiler service, so you’ll know what to expect.

Why your boiler needs service?

A boiler service helps find any problems earlier. Moreover, during the service, engineers check if your boiler works efficiently. This keeps your energy bills low. As a result, regular servicing helps your boiler last longer. In fact, engineers look for any issues to fix them early. So booking a service ensures your boiler meets safety standards. Plus, it helps keep your boiler’s guarantee after the first year.

What are the real benefits of boiler servicing a boiler?

You might think it’s a hassle, but getting your boiler serviced each year is super important. Firstly, it ensures your central heating system is safe and works well. But there’s more to it than that. Here are the main benefits:

• It’s the law: If you’re a landlord, you must service your boiler annually. Even if you’re not, it’s still a smart move for safety and savings.
• Family safety: A faulty boiler can leak deadly carbon monoxide gas. So regular checks can spot leaks before they become dangerous.
• Lower bills: A yearly service can cut your energy bills by making sure your boiler runs efficiently. So with gas prices high, this is crucial.
• Early detection: Regular servicing helps catch problems early, before they get worse and cost more to fix.
• Warranty: Skipping service could void your warranty, leaving you with big bills for repairs. 

Signs it’s time your boiler needs a service

• It’s been a year: Even if everything seems fine, get your boiler serviced annually to keep the warranty valid. Without a doubt, a well-maintained boiler can last up to 15 years, but it needs regular service. 
• Inefficient performance: If your house is still cold with the heating on, your boiler might need a service or power flush.
• Pilot light issues: If your pilot light is off or keeps going out, it needs attention. Also, a yellow flame could mean a carbon monoxide leak, which is serious.
• Unusual odours: A strange smell could mean a gas leak. Moreover, look for dark marks on the boiler casing too.
• Loud noises: Boilers make sounds, but if they’re new or strange, something might be wrong.

What does a boiler service include?

When your boiler gets its yearly service, the engineer does a few checks:

Visual inspection

The engineer looks at your boiler, its connecting pipes, and controls to make sure everything’s okay.

Firing up

They turn on your boiler to see if it heats water properly and check it with special tools.

Casing removal

Taking off the boiler’s cover, they check inside for any issues like damage or leaks.

Flue check

They inspect the pipe that goes outside to make sure it’s clear and fitted properly.

Gas pressure checks

They make sure your boiler has the right gas pressure for heating your water correctly.

Additional checks

They test safety devices and make sure your boiler is in a safe spot.

Issuing a report

Finally, they write a report detailing what they found and any problems to fix later.

How long does it take to service a boiler?

Well, the time it takes to service a boiler can vary based on the brand and model. So always check with your engineer to make sure they can service your specific boiler. Usually, a service takes 30 minutes to an hour. If there are issues, it might take longer.

Boiler service cost estimates (excluding labour)

Brand	Model	Service Cost Estimate
Worcester Bosch	Greenstar CDI	£30 – £50
Viessmann	Vitodens 100-W	£25 – £45
Ideal	Logic Combi	£20 – £40
Vaillant	EcoTEC Exclusive	£35 – £55
Baxi	600 Series	£20 – £40

These are estimated costs for parts only and may vary depending on the specific model, local availability, and any unexpected issues encountered during the service. Moreover, labour costs are not included. They can vary depending on the engineer’s rates, location, and the complexity of the service. However, it’s always best to get quotes from several qualified engineers to compare service and labor costs before booking an appointment.

Can you service a boiler yourself?

No, you shouldn’t service your boiler yourself. Like a car, it needs a professional – a qualified engineer in order to efficient boiler system. However, there are things you can do to care for your boiler:

• Check the pilot light. It should be blue. But if it’s orange or yellow, call a professional.
• Check water pressure. It should be between 1 and 1.5 bar. If it’s not, follow the manual or call a plumber.
• Look for water leaks. Puddles or drips mean trouble so get them fixed fast.
• Use a carbon monoxide tester. Test weekly and call a gas engineer if it detects anything.

Remember, it’s better to call a plumber for any issues. But keep up with regular servicing and maintenance in the meantime.

Boiler service checklist

Before the service

• Clear the area around the boiler: Ensure there’s enough space for the engineer to work comfortably.
• Gather boiler documentation: If you have any manuals or service history documents, have them readily available for the engineer.
• Turn off the central heating and hot water: This helps the engineer work safely on the boiler.

During the service (observe the engineer)

• Visual inspection: Checks the boiler casing, flue, and pipework for leaks, damage, or signs of corrosion.
• Internal checks: May involve removing the boiler case to inspect the heat exchanger, burner, and other internal components for cleanliness and wear.
• Cleaning: The engineer will clean the boiler components as needed to remove soot, dust, and debris that can impact efficiency.
• Flue gas analysis: This test measures the efficiency of combustion and ensures proper gas burning.
• Pressure checks: Checks the gas pressure and water pressure of the boiler system.
• Safety checks: Ensures all safety devices are functioning correctly.
• Controls check: Verifies that the boiler controls are working properly.

After the service

• Engineer’s report: Ask for a service report outlining the work performed and any recommendations.
• Boiler operation: The engineer will typically turn the boiler back on and demonstrate its functionality.
• Ask questions: Don’t hesitate to ask the engineer any questions you may have about the service or your boiler.

Is Your Old Boiler Service Costing You Too Much?

If your old non-condensing boiler service is costing you too much and is inefficient, you may qualify for free boiler replacement from the ECO4 scheme. It is a government-backed scheme that helps eligible low-income households replace their old boilers with new, highly efficient ones for free.

Bottom line

In conclusion, having your boiler serviced is important. The checks are done during a service catch problems early, so your home stays warm and cosy without costly breakdowns. Moreover, visual inspections and gas pressure checks are key so never avoid them. In fact, regular services give you peace of mind, knowing your heating is reliable for the colder months.