5 reasons you should service your boiler annually

If you’re looking to avoid your boiler breaking down unexpectedly, or prevent those unexpected costs from repairs, you may want to consider an annual service to maintain the well-being of your boiler and keep your manufacturer warranty valid.

What is a boiler service?

An annual boiler service includes tests and checks on your boiler to ensure it’s operating efficiently and effectively. The service should only be carried out by a Gas Safe engineer. A boiler service will usually include the following:

• Boiler control checks (room thermostat etc.)
• Gas and pressure flow tests
• Inspection of the inside of the boiler
• Flue and combustion checks
• Inspection of water and gas pipework
• Checks on all electrical connections

In addition to the above, the engineer may also check that all seals on the boiler are intact to prevent leaks and corrosion on the pipework around the boiler. After the boiler service has been completed, the Gas Safe engineer will provide you with all the information or advice you need to help maintain your boiler between services. Manufacturers have checklists to ensure that a qualified engineer does everything necessary to keep your warranty valid.

How does an annual service cost?

One-off boiler services can cost anywhere from £60 to £100 depending on the age and model of your boiler. Prices vary from provider to provider (sometimes drastically!), and in addition to the one-off boiler service cost, you may have to pay for repairs if a fault is discovered. Repairs can cost upwards of £100.

Here are the top five reasons why you should have your boiler serviced annually:

Safety

A faulty boiler could be extremely dangerous, primarily if a gas leak occurs. Carbon monoxide (also known as the “silent killer”) is a scentless gas that can cause hangover-like symptoms, followed by loss of consciousness. A faulty boiler could potentially leak carbon monoxide, and it’s essential to have a carbon monoxide alarm installed to prevent any harm caused by a gas leak. A Gas Safe qualified boiler engineer will check for and fix any leaks or weak points during a service.

If you experience a carbon monoxide leak or can smell leaking gas, contact the National Gas Emergency Service number on 0800 111 999 immediately. Alternatively, you can contact the Safety Executive (HSE) Gas Safety Advice Line on 0800 300 363.

Reduce your energy bills

Looking to save on those ever-increasing energy bills? An engineer will be able to check that your boiler is running as efficiently as possible and not wasting energy unnecessarily. An efficient boiler will help save on energy bills while also reducing your home’s carbon footprint. You could save up to £350 per year with an efficient and regularly serviced boiler.

Save money on boiler repairs

Getting your boiler serviced annually will ensure that your boiler works correctly, saving money on any future maintenance or unexpected breakdowns. A fully qualified Gas Safe boiler engineer will be able to fix any small underlying issues before they lead to more significant problems later on.

Keeping your boiler warranty valid

Most boiler warranties will require an annual service to keep your warranty valid. Most home and business insurance policies also include a requirement for boilers to be serviced regularly so that they’re safe to use. An annual boiler service will meet most policy requirements, though it’s best to check with your insurance provider just to be sure.

Gas Safety Records & Certificates (Landlords & Businesses)

Landlords & businesses must keep their gas, LPG and oil appliances and installations maintained and safe to use, and must provide a valid Gas Safe certificate or Landlord Gas Safety Record for gas boilers. Your legal obligations can be found in The Health & Safety at Work Act (1974), Workplace (Health, Safety & Welfare) Regulations 1992 and Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998. When arranging a service visit or taking out cover as a landlord, it’s important to ask whether you will receive an LGSR (Landlord Gas Safety Record).