Most of us rely on our boilers every single day without giving them a second thought, until something goes wrong. An annual service is the simplest way to avoid that, but many homeowners are not sure what actually happens when the engineer arrives.
Think of it as an MOT for your heating. Here is exactly what a boiler service involves, how long it takes and how to get the most from it.
Why Service Your Boiler?
There are four good reasons to book a service every year:
- Safety – an engineer checks that the boiler and its safety devices are working properly, which helps protect your household from the risks of carbon monoxide
- Efficiency – a boiler that is running correctly uses less energy to do the same job
- Early fault detection – small problems can be spotted and dealt with before they become expensive repairs or a winter breakdown
- Warranty and insurance – failing to service your boiler regularly can invalidate your warranty and may affect home insurance, so it is important to follow the terms and conditions
What Happens During a Boiler Service?
At NCS, a typical service takes around an hour, although the exact time depends on the appliance, its condition and any issues found. A thorough service usually covers:
- A visual inspection of the boiler, casing and accessible components
- Checks for leaks, damage and corrosion that could affect safe operation
- Analysis testing, where required, using specialist equipment, including a flue gas analysis to check how cleanly and efficiently the boiler is burning
- Pressure, combustion and efficiency checks, as applicable to your appliance
- Testing of safety controls and protective devices
- Cleaning, lubrication and adjustment of relevant components and controls
- Cleaning of the boiler and accessible internal parts as appropriate
- Operational testing to confirm the boiler responds correctly
- A service report explaining the work completed and any recommendations
The exact steps depend on whether you have a gas, oil or LPG boiler. Gas appliances must be serviced by a Gas Safe registered engineer, and oil appliances by an OFTEC registered engineer.
What About the Service Report?
Do not file it away and forget it. Your report is a record of the checks and work carried out, and it is the evidence you may need if you make a warranty claim or sell your home. Many manufacturers also ask for the service to be recorded in the boiler’s logbook or service record, so make sure your engineer completes it.
What Is Not Included?
A standard service is a check-up, not a repair. Replacement parts and additional remedial work are normally separate and agreed with you first. If your engineer finds something that needs attention, they should explain what it is, why it matters and what your options are before going ahead.
How to Prepare for Your Service
A few simple steps help the visit run smoothly:
- Make sure the engineer can reach the boiler easily, clearing any stored items from the area
- Have your previous service report and boiler manual to hand
- Note down any symptoms you have noticed, such as odd noises, slow heating or pressure drops
- Let your engineer know if you have a warranty with specific servicing requirements
Signs Your Boiler Needs Attention Sooner
Annual servicing is the minimum, but some symptoms mean you should call an engineer earlier:
- Slow heating or unreliable hot water
- Unusual smells, or loud or unusual noises
- Leaks or dripping
- Frequent shutdowns or pressure problems
- Rising energy bills with no change in your habits
If you ever smell gas or suspect a carbon monoxide leak, switch off the appliance, open windows, leave the property and call the National Gas Emergency Service on 0800 111 999.
When Is the Best Time to Book?
Autumn is a popular time, as people prepare for winter, but engineers can be busy. Booking a little earlier, before the cold weather arrives, gives you the best choice of appointments and time to deal with anything that comes up. A service in the warmer months is just as valuable, and it can be easier to arrange.
A Small Job with a Big Payoff
A boiler service takes about an hour, but its benefits last all year. It helps keep your household safe, your heating dependable and your warranty valid, and it is far easier to arrange than an emergency repair on the coldest day of the year.
Is your boiler due a service? NCS Plumbing & Heating Specialists provide annual servicing for gas, oil and LPG boilers across Hertfordshire and the South East, carried out by experienced Gas Safe and OFTEC registered engineers. Book your boiler service today and head into winter with confidence.
