Do gas boiler need servicing?
Yes, boilers need to be serviced annually to ensure they run safely and efficiently, which also helps to maintain their warranty and can lower energy bills. A service is a professional inspection and maintenance check carried out by a Gas Safe registered engineer.
Why annual servicing is important
Safety:
A service includes safety checks, such as looking for gas leaks and ensuring the boiler is burning fuel safely, which helps prevent dangerous situations like carbon monoxide poisoning.
Efficiency:
Regular servicing keeps the boiler running at its most efficient, which can help lower your energy bills.
Warranty:
For new boilers, an annual service is often a requirement to keep the manufacturer's guarantee valid.
Preventative maintenance:
A service can detect minor issues before they become major, costly breakdowns.
Longevity:
Regular servicing can extend the lifespan of your boiler system.
What’s included in a typical boiler service?
Visual Inspection: Checking the boiler and surrounding pipework for signs of wear, damage, corrosion, or leaks.
Internal Component Check: The engineer will remove the boiler's casing to inspect internal parts such as the heat exchanger, burner, and electrodes. These parts are often cleaned to remove soot or debris buildup.
Safety Checks: This includes checking safety devices like pressure relief valves and performing gas pressure and flow tests. It also involves a flue gas analysis to ensure the boiler is burning fuel efficiently and safely, and that harmful gases are not being released into the home.
System Checks: The engineer will check the system's pressure, examine the condensate trap, and may also bleed radiators if needed.
Operational Testing: The boiler is fired up to ensure it is operating correctly, igniting, running, and shutting down safely. The engineer will also check that the ventilation and flue comply with safety regulations.
Documentation: The engineer will provide a written report confirming the service has been completed and note any issues found or repairs needed.