Keen to know how to service a boiler? What do you need to know about boiler servicing? And can you take care of it yourself?
Boilers play an essential role keeping our homes and businesses warm and comfortable, particularly during the chilly winter months. We rely on them for hot water as well as heating, and when they break down it can be a costly inconvenience. Regular servicing can help ensure you’re not left without heat and water when you need it most and, most importantly, that your boiler is safe.
Can I service a boiler myself?
Boilers are complex pieces of equipment, and servicing them is a specialist task that requires expert knowledge and skills. You should therefore hire a qualified professional to ensure the job is carried out safely and correctly. In the UK, it’s important to follow the regulations outlined by the Gas Safe Register, which governs the safe installation and maintenance of gas appliances, including boilers. If you’re not a gas professional or a Gas Safe engineer, then servicing your own boiler is illegal under The Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998. Fitting or removing gas boilers and other gas-related appliances is also covered by the act.
Indeed, any insurance or warranty on the boiler will be invalidated if the servicing requirements are not met. In practice, this usually means a yearly service by a Gas Safe engineer who will then provide the necessary certification. Gas boilers can pose potential hazards if they’re mishandled incorrectly, such as gas leaks or carbon monoxide emissions – both of which can be life-threatening.
Professional engineers have undergone thorough training and gained the necessary certification to handle boiler maintenance and repairs. They possess the know-how to identify potential issues, carry out inspections, and clean or replace components.
How to service a boiler
As explained above, a boiler should be serviced by a qualified Gas Safe registered engineer. However, acquiring a general understanding of the process can be helpful for home and business owners. If you’re wondering how to service a boiler, then the following steps outline what’s involved in broad terms. Your Gas Safe registered engineer will usually be happy to tell you more about what they do and how they ensure that your boiler is working properly. During the servicing, the engineer will perform a range of tasks. These will include visual inspections of the boiler and connecting pipes for any signs of leaks or damage.
They will assess the combustion process of the boiler, checking the burner and ensuring that it’s operating efficiently. An engineer will also measure the levels of carbon monoxide and other gases to ensure the boiler is operating safely. A list of tasks also includes cleaning the boiler’s internal components. This helps to remove any dirt, debris, or scale build up that can impact performance and efficiency. The various components, such as the valves, pumps, and controls, will also be inspected for wear and tear. Any faulty or worn parts may need to be replaced. The boiler’s pressure levels will be checked as well to ensure they are within the recommended range, and adjustments made if they’re not.
A key part of the servicing process is safety checks. Safety devices and controls, such as the pressure relief valve and thermostat, will be tested to ensure that they are working correctly. Once the service has been completed, the engineer will then provide the boiler owner with a service report that details the work that has been carried out, any recommendations, and the overall condition of the boiler. This is often essential for insurance purposes and preserving the warranty.
So, if you’re wondering how to service your boiler, the answer is to leave it to the professionals. They are qualified to verify that your boiler is safe, is working efficiently, and can be relied upon when you need it most.
How long does a boiler service take?
The complexity of the boiler, its location, age and the time that’s passed since its last service and the amount of cleaning required will all impact the length of time a boiler service takes. In most cases, boiler servicing will usually take somewhere between one and two hours. It’s important the process isn’t rushed to allow the engineer to conduct a thorough examination, cleaning and testing to ensure the boiler’s safe and efficient operation. Investing the necessary time in servicing your boiler can help to identify potential issues early, prevent breakdowns, and ensure the longevity of your heating system.
Get in touch
At Bumblebee Plumbing & Heating, we can carry out a comprehensive service of your boiler. This is recommended for any boiler type to ensure your system is kept in optimum condition and is operating to its maximum performance. Maintaining your boiler helps to protect against carbon leaks, poor plumbing and heating, and boiler breakdown and prolongs the lifespan of your boiler.
Contact us today to find out more, or to book a service.
