What Does a Boiler Service Include?

A boiler service is essential for ensuring your heating system runs efficiently, safely, and reliably. Regular servicing helps maintain your boiler’s performance, extend its lifespan, and reduce the risk of costly breakdowns. But what does a boiler service involve, and why is it so important?

What Is a Boiler Service?

A boiler service is a professional inspection carried out by a Gas Safe registered engineer. It involves a series of checks, tests, and cleaning tasks designed to ensure that your boiler operates safely and efficiently. It’s recommended that household boilers be serviced annually.

What Should Be Included in a Boiler Service?

During a boiler service, an engineer follows a comprehensive checklist that includes inspecting key components, checking gas pressure and combustion levels, ensuring proper ventilation, and looking for any potential leaks or faults. This process ensures that the boiler meets safety and performance standards.

What Work Is Carried Out During a Boiler Service?

A typical boiler service includes:

• Inspecting the boiler’s interior and exterior for wear and damage.
• Checking the gas pressure and flow.
• Testing the flue and ensuring proper combustion.
• Cleaning essential components, such as the heat exchanger and burners.
• Checking the system’s safety controls and ensuring proper operation.
• Examining water and gas connections for leaks.
• Providing a boiler service report detailing the work done.

Do They Check Radiators During a Boiler Service?

A standard boiler service focuses on the boiler itself. While radiators aren’t typically included, some engineers may offer this as an additional service. Consider requesting a full heating system check if you suspect radiator issues.

Does a Boiler Service Include a System Flush?

No, a boiler service doesn’t include a system flush. A   is a separate service designed to clear out sludge and debris from the entire heating system.

How Long Does a Boiler Service Take?

A boiler service usually takes between 30 minutes and an hour, depending on the type of boiler and its condition.

What Do Engineers Check During a Boiler Service?

Engineers inspect key components such as:

• Heat exchanger
• Burner
• Flue and ventilation
• Ignition system
• Pressure and temperature controls
• Safety devices
• Gas pressure and flow

Who Can Perform a Boiler Service?

Only Gas Safe registered engineers are legally allowed to service gas boilers in the UK. This certification ensures they have the necessary training and expertise.

How to Pick the Right Gas Engineer

When choosing a gas engineer, consider:

• Gas Safe registration (always check their ID).
• Experience and customer reviews.
• Transparent pricing and service guarantees.

Can a Plumber Do a Boiler Service?

While plumbers specialise in general plumbing work, only Gas Safe registered engineers can legally perform a boiler service. At Metro Plumb, we have a growing network of GasSafe registered engineers across the UK. Click here to find your nearest engineer. 

Why Is a Boiler Service Important?

Regular boiler servicing helps:

• Maintain efficiency and lower energy bills.
• Extend the boiler’s lifespan.
• Prevent unexpected breakdowns.
• Reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Ensure compliance with legal and warranty requirements.

How Often Should You Service Your Boiler?

Experts recommend servicing your boiler annually to keep it running efficiently and safely. Heavy usage or older boilers may require more frequent checks.

Risks of Not Servicing Your Boiler Regularly

Failing to service your boiler can lead to:

• Carbon monoxide leaks, posing severe health risks.
• Boiler breakdowns and costly repairs.
• Increased energy bills due to reduced efficiency.
• Voided warranties and potential legal consequences.

Legal Requirements for Boiler Servicing

Homeowners aren’t legally required to service their boilers, but landlords must arrange annual gas safety checks for rental properties, providing tenants with a Gas Safety Certificate, this is known as a CP12 certificate.

Should You Turn the Heating Off Before a Boiler Service?

It’s helpful to turn your heating off a few hours before the engineer arrives to avoid a hot system that could delay the inspection.

How Do You Prove Your Boiler Has Been Serviced?

You’ll receive a boiler service report or certificate detailing the work carried out, which serves as proof of maintenance.

How Can You Prepare for a Boiler Service?

To ensure a smooth service:

• Clear the area around your boiler.
• Ensure easy access to the appliance.
• Have your boiler manual and previous service records available.

Our Gas Safe Engineers Offer a Range of Services

As Gas Safe specialists, our local plumbing experts can help you with a range of services including boiler servicing, boiler removal, installation, repairs, and maintenance.

The Metro Plumb team is available 24-7, wherever you live in the UK. Contact us today on 0808 250 9949.