What is a Boiler Service?
A boiler service is a routine check of a central heating system’s boiler to ensure that it is operating safely and efficiently. The service should be carried out annually by a qualified Gas Safe Registered engineer to ensure the boiler continues to operate effectively and any potential issues can be recognised early.
Why is a Boiler Service required?
A boiler service is required to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the boiler. Regular servicing can help identify and prevent potential faults before they turn into more significant problems that could be costly to repair. A service can help extend the lifespan of the boiler and save on energy bills. Additionally on newly installed boilers an annual boiler service is required to meet the boiler manufacturer’s requirements for warranties.
What will be checked during the boiler service ?
During a boiler service the following checks will be carried out:
- The engineer will open up the boiler to check the combustion chamber and heat exchanger for signs of corrosion or leaks.
- The gas pressure and flow will be tested to ensure that it is at the correct level for safe and efficient operation.
- The flue and ventilation system will be inspected to ensure that they are working safely and are free of any obstructions.
- The safety devices of the boiler will be tested and checked to make sure they are operating correctly.
- The overall condition of the boiler including the casing and control will be checked to identify any potential hazards.
- The boiler pressure will be checked and topped up if necessary
- The radiators, valves and pipework will also be inspected to ensure they are functioning properly and there are no leaks.
- The combustion performance of a boiler will be checked using a gas flue analyser
Boiler Service Checklist for Occupants and Tenants:
To ensure a smooth boiler service it is important to prepare in advance. Here are some key points to keep in mind before the arrival of the gas engineer:
- Accessibility: Make sure that the gas meter and the gas boiler is easily accessible and free from any obstructions.
- Inactivity: The boiler should be turned off 30 minutes before and should be running hot or in use during the visit.
- Working order: The gas boiler that will be checked must be in full working order. If the boiler is not operational please inform us or the gas engineer in advance.
- Credit: If you have a pay-as-you-go or prepayment gas meter, make sure there is enough credit for checks to be carried out.
- Safety: Ensure the safety of children and animals during the visit by supervising them adequately.
- Accessibility to lofts or basements: Gas boilers in lofts or basements must be easily accessible via a secure staircase or fixed ladders.
- Flue inspection: The engineer will need access to the exterior grounds to check the condition of the boiler flue.
- Leaks: If there are any gas leaks, or if you suspect that there may be a leak from any of your gas appliances or the gas boiler, please let the engineer know in advance so that they can take the necessary precautions.
- Electricals: Make sure that all electrical appliances and devices near the gas boiler are turned off during the visit.
- Changes: Advise the engineer of any recent renovations or changes to the gas system, such as the installation of a new appliance or a new gas supply.
PLEASE ALSO NOTE that at present we are NOT able to offer boiler servicing for the below appliances. We reserve the right to charge an abortive fee if instructed to inspect these appliances:
- Back boilers
- Warm air units
- Open-flue boilers
