A gas boiler is a vital part of any home, providing warmth and hot water throughout the year. However, it’s one of those appliances that is often overlooked until something goes wrong. Regular boiler servicing is essential to ensure it operates efficiently, safely, and reliably. In this blog, we’ll explore the numerous benefits of having your gas boiler serviced, offering you compelling reasons to make it a priority in your home maintenance schedule.
1. Enhanced efficiency and lower energy bills
One of the most significant benefits of regular boiler servicing is improved efficiency. Over time, boilers can become less efficient due to the buildup of dirt, debris, and limescale. This forces your boiler to work harder, using more energy to produce the same amount of heat.
A professional service includes cleaning internal components and ensuring that the boiler is running at peak efficiency. An efficient boiler consumes less fuel, which translates to lower energy bills. Especially with rising energy costs, a well-maintained boiler can save you a substantial amount of money over the year.
2. Increased lifespan of your boiler
A gas boiler is a significant investment, and you’ll want to get the most out of it. Regular boiler servicing can help extend the lifespan of your boiler. By identifying and addressing small issues early, you can prevent them from developing into major, costly problems that could lead to a premature replacement. The life expectancy of a gas boiler according to the leading manufacturers is 12 – 15 years.
During a service, an engineer will check for wear and tear on components, replace any faulty parts, and ensure the boiler is running smoothly. This proactive maintenance helps ensure your boiler remains in good condition for as long as possible, and our Heating & Plumbing services can further extend the life of your boiler or assist you in selecting a new one if necessary.
3. Improved safety
Safety is paramount when it comes to gas appliances. Faulty boilers are a leading source of carbon monoxide (CO) exposure in homes. A study by the UK National Poisons Information Service found that, among reported CO poisoning incidents occurring at home where the source was known, 62% were linked to faulty boilers. Carbon monoxide is particularly dangerous because it is odourless and colourless, making it almost impossible to detect without proper equipment. According to the Office for National Statistics and the Carbon Monoxide and Gas Safety Society, approximately 50 people die from CO poisoning each year in the UK.
A boiler servicing appointment includes thorough safety checks to ensure there are no leaks and that the boiler is functioning safely. Engineers use specialised equipment to check for carbon monoxide and test all safety features of your boiler, giving you peace of mind that your household is safe.
4. Prevention of breakdowns
There are few things more inconvenient than a boiler breakdown, especially in the middle of winter. Across England, an estimated 5% of households experience boiler failures over a decade, leading to annual repair costs totalling £32.1 million. Regular servicing helps identify potential issues before they escalate into full-blown breakdowns, reducing the likelihood of unexpected repair costs. A trained engineer can spot worn-out parts, leaks, or other concerns that may not be immediately apparent.
Preventative maintenance minimises the risk of unexpected breakdowns, ensuring your boiler is reliable when you need it most. This not only saves you from the stress and discomfort of a cold home but also reduces the cost of emergency repairs, which can be much higher than the cost of regular servicing—unless you have a boiler care plan in place. If you’re looking for added peace of mind, see Hewer FM’s Failsafe boiler care plan to protect your boiler and heating today, with tailored plans for oil and gas boilers.
5. Compliance with warranty requirements
Most boiler manufacturers require regular boiler servicing as part of their warranty terms. Failing to service your boiler annually could void your warranty, leaving you unprotected if something goes wrong. By having your boiler serviced, you can ensure that you remain compliant with warranty conditions and that any repairs or replacements covered by the warranty are still valid.
6. Better heating performance
A non-serviced boiler can struggle to heat your home efficiently, leading to uneven heating or rooms that take longer to warm up. A serviced boiler operates more effectively, distributing heat evenly and quickly. This not only improves comfort but also ensures you’re getting the best performance from your heating system.
Additionally, regular boiler servicing can optimise your hot water supply, preventing issues like inconsistent water temperature or low pressure.
7. Environmental benefits
A well-maintained boiler is not only more cost-effective but also better for the environment. An efficient boiler uses less fuel, which reduces your carbon footprint. Regular boiler servicing ensures that your boiler burns fuel cleanly and operates at optimal efficiency, helping you contribute to a greener planet.
Some engineers may also recommend upgrades or adjustments that can further improve your boiler’s environmental performance, such as installing a programmable thermostat or improving insulation around pipes.
8. Maintaining home insurance compliance
In some cases, home insurance policies require regular maintenance of your gas appliances, including your boiler. Neglecting this maintenance could affect your ability to claim on your insurance if an issue arises. Keeping your boiler serviced ensures that you remain compliant with any policy requirements, safeguarding your home and finances.
9. Peace of mind
Perhaps one of the most overlooked benefits of regular boiler servicing is the peace of mind it brings. Despite the risks of breakdowns and inefficiencies, over 3 million UK households have never had their boiler serviced. Regular maintenance ensures that your boiler remains in optimal condition, reducing the risk of unexpected failures and safety concerns. Regular servicing eliminates the uncertainty of potential breakdowns and ensures you’re doing everything possible to protect your household.
If your boiler is due for a service, finding a trusted local engineer who can offer boiler servicing near you can help keep your home warm and safe.
10. Avoiding emergency repair costs
Emergency callouts for boiler repairs can be expensive, especially if they occur outside of normal working hours. Regular boiler servicing reduces the likelihood of needing such repairs, as potential problems are addressed before they become critical. This can save you hundreds, if not thousands, of pounds over the lifespan of your boiler.
What does a boiler service involve?
If you’re curious what happens during a boiler service, a standard appointment typically includes:
- Visual inspection: Checking the boiler for visible signs of damage, corrosion, or wear and tear.
- Cleaning components: Removing dirt, debris, and limescale from key parts, such as the heat exchanger and burner.
- Safety checks: Ensuring there are no gas leaks and that carbon monoxide levels are within safe limits.
- Pressure testing: Checking the pressure levels to ensure they are correct.
- Flue examination: Inspecting the flue to make sure it’s not blocked and is expelling gases properly.
- Performance testing: Assessing the overall efficiency and functionality of the boiler.
So how often should you service your boiler?
It is recommended to have your boiler serviced once a year. This annual timetable represents the standard boiler servicing frequency, ensuring your boiler is ready for winter when it’s most needed. Scheduling your service before the colder months—in late summer or early autumn—is a practical approach.
Summary
Servicing your gas boiler may not be the most glamorous home maintenance task, but it is undoubtedly one of the most important. From improving efficiency and extending the life of your boiler to ensuring safety and reducing energy costs, the benefits of regular boiler servicing are numerous and far-reaching. Whether you’re concerned about what happens during a boiler service or want to maintain consistent boiler servicing frequency, it pays to stay proactive.
If you haven’t had your boiler serviced recently, consider Hewer FM as a trusted solution. Their professional team can help you avoid breakdowns, keep your energy bills in check, and maintain a safe home environment all year round. By prioritising regular servicing, you can enjoy a warm, worry-free home throughout every season.
