How Often Should a Boiler Be Serviced?

Your boiler is the heart of your home’s heating system, keeping you warm during those chilly Cambridge winters and ensuring you have hot water on demand. But like any workhorse, it requires ongoing care and attention to keep it running smoothly. So, how often should a boiler be serviced? Read on for an in-depth guide, including answers to questions like “how often should a boiler be serviced by law?”

Why regular servicing matters

Boiler servicing can seem like just one more chore or expense on the ‘to do’ list. But when it comes to the comfort, efficiency and safety of your home, maintenance matters!

Why is servicing so important? Much like a car, a boiler needs regular check-ups to operate safely and efficiently. A properly cared for boiler is less likely to break down, inevitably saving you from unexpected cold showers and costly repair bills. Regular servicing can also extend the working life of your boiler and help keep down household expenses in the long run.

Annual servicing: the golden rule

Most households should have their boiler serviced once a year. This isn’t just a recommendation but often a requirement if you want to maintain the warranty on your boiler. If you fail to meet the requirement you may find yourself footing the bill for repairs that would usually be covered by the manufacturer.

An annual service ensures that all boiler components are checked, cleaned and working correctly. Servicing not only maximises efficiency but prevents minor issues from becoming major problems. It’s a bit like taking your boiler for a yearly MOT – a thorough check to make sure everything is in tip-top condition.

How often should a boiler be serviced by law if you’re a landlord? As stated in the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998, it’s your responsibility to keep gas appliances, including boilers, in good working order and have them checked every year by a Gas Safe registered engineer.

When should you schedule a service?

Timing your boiler service can make a big difference. Ideally, you should aim to have it serviced in late summer or early autumn. This gives you time to address any issues before the colder months set in and ensures your boiler is ready to handle the increased demand. Plus, boiler engineers tend to be less busy during these periods, so a service in late summer or early autumn means you’re more likely to get an appointment at a time that suits you.

What happens during a boiler service?

You might be wondering what goes on behind the scenes during a boiler service. When you enlist the help of Plumbox, we’ll send a qualified, Gas Safe registered heating engineer to carry out checks and tests. Here’s a rundown of what we do:

Visual inspection

We’ll start with a visual inspection of the boiler and associated pipework to check everything looks in order.

Component check

Next, we’ll move on to key components like the heat exchanger, burner and main injector. We’ll check they’re clean and in good working condition.

Flue check

The flue and ventilation will be inspected to make sure they’re not blocked and are allowing gases to escape safely.

Gas pressure check

The engineer will check the gas pressure to ensure it’s at the correct level.

Combustion analysis

Using a flue gas analyser, we’ll make sure your boiler is burning fuel correctly.

Safety devices

We’ll test safety devices to ensure they are functioning properly.

System controls

Finally, we’ll inspect the system controls to ensure everything is operating as it should.

At the end of the service, the engineer will provide you with a report detailing what’s been checked. The report will also list recommendations for repairs or maintenance.

Spotting the signs: when to call for an extra service

How often should a boiler be serviced? While annual servicing is standard, there are times when your boiler might need a little extra attention. Keep an eye out for the following red flags that indicate your boiler may need servicing sooner rather than later:

Unusual noises: Banging, clanging or whistling noises coming from your boiler are a telltale sign that something’s amiss.

Pilot light keeps going out: If the pilot light keeps extinguishing without an obvious cause, it’s probably time to call in an expert.

Radiators not heating up: If your radiators aren’t heating up as they should, or you’re finding cold spots, it could be a sign of an issue with your boiler.

Rising energy bills: Noticed a sudden spike in your energy bills? It could indicate that your boiler isn’t running as efficiently as it should be.

Leaks: Water leaks around your boiler are a serious cause for concern and should be checked out immediately.

DIY maintenance tips

Nothing replaces a professional boiler service but there are a few things you can do to keep your system in good shape between services:

Bleed your radiators

If you notice your radiators are warm at the bottom but cold at the top, bleeding them can help to release trapped air and spread heat more evenly.

Check the pressure

Keep an eye on the pressure gauge – it’s a small thing that can make a big difference. If the pressure's a bit off, either too low or too high, you may need to give it a quick tweak.

Keep vents clear

Ensure that any vents or flues are clear of obstructions.

Insulate pipes

Don’t let a Cambridge cold snap catch you out! Insulating your pipes can prevent them freezing in the winter, an issue that can wreak havoc on your boiler.

Choosing the right boiler service provider

Reputation is everything when it comes to choosing a boiler service provider. After all, your boiler is the backbone of your home heating system, so it makes sense to give it the TLC it deserves. This is especially true if you’re a landlord wondering how often a boiler should be serviced by law.

At Plumbox, we pride ourselves on our high-quality work and best-in-class customer service. Our team of qualified engineers knows their way around the latest systems to provide you with the best possible end-user experience. We also have extensive knowledge of older boilers, including those found in historic and period homes.

Whether it’s a routine boiler service or an emergency repair, we’re here to help keep your home warm and comfortable all year round. Give us a call today on 01223 867038 or send us an email to book your boiler service and enjoy peace of mind knowing your home heating system is in good hands.