Servicing your boiler once a year is not just recommended, it’s essential. Most manufacturers require it to keep the warranty valid. Beyond that, it keeps the appliance safe, efficient, and reliable. Miss a service and faults can quickly turn into major breakdowns, often during the coldest days when you need it most.
Annual Boiler Servicing – The Golden Rule
You should book a boiler service every 12 months. It applies whether you have a combi, system or regular boiler. Leave it any longer and you’re running a risk, carbon monoxide leaks, falling efficiency, and costly repairs can all follow. Gas Safe regulations support this timeline for safety reasons. For new installations, the first service must be within 12 months of the fitting date to keep your warranty active. Miss that window and you could be paying out of pocket even if the fault isn’t yours.
Why Annual Servicing Matters
- Efficiency drops when a boiler isn’t maintained. You’ll see it in your energy bills. A blocked heat exchanger or a worn-out burner uses more gas.
- Hidden faults can go unnoticed. Engineers often find problems long before they cause a breakdown. Catching them early saves money.
- It’s a legal requirement for landlords. If you’re renting out property, you must have a Gas Safety Certificate issued annually. That means getting the boiler serviced by a registered Gas Safe engineer.
What’s Included in a Boiler Service?
During a proper service, a Gas Safe engineer will carry out:
- Visual inspection for corrosion, leaks, or loose connections
- Flue and combustion checks to ensure safe operation
- Gas pressure tests to confirm the boiler is running correctly
- Inspection of internal components, including burner, heat exchanger and ignition system
- Cleaning of essential parts
- System controls check, including thermostats and timers.
It usually takes 30–60 minutes, depending on the make and model. A well-maintained boiler can last 10–15 years or more.
Signs You May Need More Frequent Servicing
While once a year is standard, some households might benefit from more regular checks:
- Older boilers that are out of warranty
- Properties with multiple occupants, where usage is high
- Homes with poor water quality, which causes more scale buildup
- Systems that heat large areas, putting extra strain on the boiler
In these cases, servicing every 6–9 months might be a safer bet. Speak to your engineer about what’s appropriate for your system.
How Much Does a Boiler Service Cost?
Prices in the UK range from £80 to £120 on average. Location, boiler type, and who you hire affect the cost. Local engineers usually offer better rates than large firms, and many include free safety checks as part of the service. Avoid anyone offering services for significantly less. It often means corners are being cut, something you can’t afford when gas and heating safety are at stake.
When’s the Best Time to Book a Boiler Service?
Avoid the winter rush. Spring and summer are ideal times to book in. Engineers have more availability, and you’re less likely to experience downtime if repairs are needed. Waiting until October or later means busier schedules and potential delays if your system needs attention.
Choose a Reliable Engineer
Always use a Gas Safe registered engineer. Ask for their ID and check the Gas Safe register online. A reputable engineer will always be willing to explain the work and offer a record of the service for your files. If you’re comparing options for a boiler service, find someone local, transparent, and responsive. A good service now means fewer surprises later.
Summary
Service your boiler once a year. No excuses. It keeps your warranty valid, reduces your bills, and keeps your home safe. Don’t wait for something to break. Book the service, keep the paperwork, and get peace of mind all year.
