When life gets busy, booking your annual boiler service can feel like one more job you’ll “get round to later.” After all, if your boiler seems to be working fine, what harm can skipping a service really do?
The truth is, neglecting your yearly boiler service can cost you far more in the long run – not just financially, but also in comfort, safety, and peace of mind.
Here’s a closer look at the hidden costs of ignoring your boiler service, and why it should be at the top of your home maintenance list.
1. Higher energy bills
A boiler that isn’t regularly serviced can lose efficiency over time. Dust, soot, or limescale build-up inside the system makes it work harder to produce the same amount of heat. Even a small drop in efficiency can add up to a noticeable increase in your energy bills.
Hidden cost: Paying more every month for the same amount of heating.
2. More frequent breakdowns
During a service, an engineer checks for worn parts, leaks, and early signs of problems. Catching these issues early means they can be fixed before they cause a full breakdown. Without servicing, minor faults go unnoticed until they turn into major, expensive repairs – or worse, a sudden boiler failure in the middle of winter.
Hidden cost: Call-out fees, emergency repairs, and potentially days without heating or hot water.
3. Shorter boiler lifespan
A modern boiler should last 10–15 years with proper care. Without annual servicing, wear and tear accelerates. Dirt build-up, untreated faults, and poor efficiency put more strain on the system, meaning you may need a full replacement years earlier than expected.
Hidden cost: Replacing your boiler sooner than necessary – a bill that can easily run into the thousands.
4. Risk of dangerous faults
This is one of the most important reasons not to ignore your service. Boilers that aren’t maintained can develop leaks or faults that release carbon monoxide – a colourless, odourless gas that can be deadly.
During a service, a Gas Safe registered engineer will check safety devices, flues, and ventilation to make sure your boiler is operating safely.
Hidden cost: Risking your health and safety, along with the potential for costly damage if a major fault goes undetected.
5. Invalid warranty
Many boiler manufacturers require annual servicing to keep the warranty valid. If you skip a service and later need a repair or replacement under warranty, your claim could be rejected.
Hidden cost: Paying out of pocket for repairs or replacements that would have been covered.
6. Legal and insurance issues for landlords
If you’re a landlord, annual boiler servicing isn’t optional – it’s a legal requirement to ensure your rental property is gas safe. Failing to keep up with checks and certification can lead to fines, legal action, or insurance claims being refused.
Hidden cost: Penalties, legal trouble, and unhappy tenants.
How much does a boiler service cost vs the risks?
An annual boiler service is a relatively small expense – usually between £80 and £120 depending on your location and boiler type. Compare that with:
- £200–£500 for a single emergency repair
- £2,000+ for a replacement boiler
- Increased monthly energy bills that add up over time
It’s clear that servicing isn’t just about peace of mind – it’s one of the most cost-effective home maintenance tasks you can do.
What happens during a boiler service?
At NCS Plumbing & Heating, our Gas Safe registered engineers carry out a comprehensive service that includes:
- Checking the boiler and controls for correct operation
- Inspecting the flue and ventilation for safety
- Cleaning internal components (such as the burner and heat exchanger)
- Checking for leaks, corrosion, or wear
- Testing gas pressure and efficiency
- Providing a service record for your warranty and peace of mind
The bottom line
Ignoring your annual boiler service might save you a little time and money in the short term – but the hidden costs can be far greater. From higher bills and costly breakdowns to safety risks and invalid warranties, it’s a gamble that rarely pays off.
By booking a yearly service, you protect your boiler, your budget, and your home.
At NCS Plumbing & Heating, we’ve been helping Hertfordshire & South East homeowners stay safe and warm for over 20 years. Our expert engineers are fully Gas Safe registered, and we service all major boiler brands, including Worcester Bosch, Vaillant, and Ideal.
Is your boiler due a service?
Contact us today for a free, no-obligation quote and expert advice tailored to your home.
