What actually happens in a boiler service?
All boiler services are not the same. A proper one follows the manufacturer's checklist and takes the best part of an hour; the cheapest ones are a visual once-over and a signature. Here's what should be happening, so you know what you're paying for — from anyone, not just us.
What a proper service includes
- Flue gas analysis — an electronic analyser confirming the burner is running safely and efficiently
- Gas tightness test — proving there are no leaks on the installation
- Casing off: inspection of the burner, electrodes, seals and heat exchanger, cleaned where the maker specifies
- Condensate trap checked and cleaned — the number one cause of winter breakdowns
- System pressure and expansion vessel checked and recharged if needed
- Safety devices tested, controls checked, and everything recorded in writing
Why it matters even when nothing's wrong
Two reasons. First, the warranty: almost every manufacturer requires an annual service by a Gas Safe registered engineer, and a missed year can void cover on a boiler you might otherwise claim on. Second, the failure curve: seals, electrodes and condensate traps fail gradually — a service catches them at the cheap stage, in summer, instead of the expensive stage on a December weekend.
Questions worth asking any engineer
- "Will you do a flue gas analysis?" — if the answer's no, it's not a full service
- "Are you Gas Safe registered?" — and ask to see the ID card; genuine engineers are never offended
- "Will I get a record of what was checked?" — you need it for warranties and, for landlords, the law