Most manufacturers and heating experts recommend servicing your boiler once every 12 months. An annual service not only ensures your system is safe and running efficiently, but it also helps to identify small issues before they turn into expensive repairs. In many cases, annual servicing is also a condition of your manufacturer’s warranty, meaning if you skip it, you could end up paying out of pocket for breakdowns that might otherwise have been covered. 

 

A Gas Safe registered engineer will carry out a series of checks to make sure your boiler is working safely and efficiently. This usually includes inspecting the internal components, cleaning the burner and heat exchanger, testing the gas pressure, checking the flue system, and ensuring there are no leaks. They’ll also look for signs of wear and tear that could cause problems in the future. At the end of the visit, you’ll receive a service record or certificate, which is useful for warranty purposes and as proof the work was done by a qualified engineer. 

 

Boilers are one of the hardest-working appliances in the home, especially during colder months. Regular servicing helps to keep them efficient, which in turn lowers your energy bills. It also reduces the risk of carbon monoxide leaks, a major safety concern if left unchecked. Another key benefit is reliability: boilers that are serviced annually are less likely to break down unexpectedly, saving you the stress of an emergency call-out in winter. 

 

A standard boiler service normally takes between 40 minutes and an hour, depending on the type and condition of your boiler. Older boilers or those with existing issues may take a little longer as the engineer needs to carry out more checks. If any faults are found during the service, your engineer will discuss the next steps with you before carrying out any extra work. 

 

Yes. A well-maintained boiler runs more efficiently, meaning it uses less energy to heat your home and hot water. Over time, that adds up to noticeable savings on your gas bills. More importantly, servicing helps prevent expensive breakdowns. Fixing a small issue during a service is usually much cheaper than dealing with a major repair after a complete breakdown. 

 

Although you can service your boiler at any time of year, late summer or early autumn is ideal. This means your boiler is in top condition before the colder weather arrives and demand for heating engineers increases. By servicing early, you avoid waiting lists during peak winter months. 

 

Yes. UK law requires landlords to have an annual gas safety check carried out on all gas appliances, including boilers, in their rental properties. This must be completed by a Gas Safe registered engineer and recorded on a certificate (CP12). Tenants should be provided with a copy of this certificate within 28 days of the inspection.