Is a boiler service worth it? What you need to know

What is a boiler service?

A boiler service is the general cleaning of some components coupled with a series of routine checks to make sure your boiler is working properly and safely.

Just like an MOT for your car, a boiler service helps identify any issues early on and keeps things running efficiently. It’s one of the best ways to keep your heating system healthy and your home cosy all year round.

What does a boiler service include?

As detailed in our boiler service checklist, a boiler service includes:

• A full inspection of the chimney structure and any ventilation requirements, including cleaning and checking of the burner, combustion chamber, injectors, heat exchanger, and ignition devices (if required).
• Checking of all seals and gaskets.
• Inspection of condensate traps and drains.
• Testing the appliance according to the manufacturer's instructions.
• Combustion analysis to measure performance and efficiency.
• Functional testing of both heating and hot water.
• A visual inspection of any other gas appliances that may be encountered.
• An assessment of your heating controls, along with best practice advice for improving energy efficiency.
• Checking the inhibitor levels in the heating system to ensure it is adequately protected from corrosion.

These checks ensure your boiler runs smoothly, safely, and efficiently.

How often should a boiler be serviced?

Boilers should be serviced once a year. Regular servicing helps to identify issues with your boiler early, keeps your boiler working efficiently, and reduces the risk of unexpected breakdowns.

It’s also important for your boiler’s warranty. Most manufacturers require an annual service to keep the warranty valid, so if you miss one, you could lose that protection.

If you’re a landlord, you must legally have your gas boiler, flues and other gas appliances checked every 12 months in rental properties to meet the requirements of current regulations. You’ll need a Gas Safety Certificate to prove that everything has been checked properly.

Is a boiler service worth it?

A boiler service isn’t just a tick-box exercise. It has several benefits that make it worth it:

• Keeps your boiler’s warranty valid: Many manufacturers' warranties often require an annual boiler service to stay valid.
• Improves safety: Gas Safe registered engineers check for leaks, faults, or signs of incomplete combustion, making sure to keep you safe.
• Prevents potentially costly repairs: Small issues can be spotted early on and fixed before they turn into more expensive problems.
• Reduces the risk of boiler breakdowns: Regular maintenance helps to avoid inconvenient malfunctions (especially when they’re mid-winter!).
• Boosts efficiency: A well-maintained boiler runs more efficiently, helping you save on energy bills.

Even if everything appears to be working as expected, an annual service provides peace of mind and could save you inconvenience and cost in the long run.

How much does a boiler service cost?

On average, a boiler service costs between £100 and £130, depending on factors such as the type of boiler you have, the fuel it uses, and where you live.

With HomeServe, a boiler service costs £60 for the year, or £5 a month, offering a straightforward and affordable way to stay on top of your boiler maintenance.

How long does a boiler service take?

A boiler service usually takes around 30 to 60 minutes. In some cases, it may take a little longer depending on the type of boiler and how easily it can be accessed, but most services are completed within about an hour.

Book your boiler service with HomeServe today

Whether it’s about safety, saving money, or simply avoiding the stress of a boiler breakdown, we’re here to help. Our friendly, Gas Safe registered engineers will make sure everything’s working as it should, so you can relax knowing your home is in good hands.

Book your boiler service today with HomeServe and keep things running smoothly.