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The Benefits of an Annual Boiler Service

Published: 08 Nov 2023 ・ Read time: 5 mins
As homeowners, we often take our boilers for granted, assuming they will keep working without issue. 
Like any other home appliance, boilers require regular maintenance to function efficiently and, most importantly, keep your loved ones safe from harm.
Did you know that between 2010-2020, over a hundred homeowners a year died because of accidental carbon monoxide poisoning in England and Wales?
This is why arranging for a gas safe engineer to come and service your boiler is paramount, as you are not only prolonging the lifespan of your boiler but also ensuring it runs smoothly and safely throughout the year, as a faulty boiler can be incredibly dangerous.

What Does an Annual Boiler Service Include?

When arranging an Annual Boiler Service, there are a few things your Gas Safe Engineer will carry out.
First, your gas-safe engineer will inspect your boiler and the boiler controls to make sure everything’s safe and operating correctly. 
Second, the engineer will open up your boiler to thoroughly check the internal components.
Next, they will check for corrosion and leaks in the boiler and in your heating system.
If required, the engineer will also clean the system filter and other parts before providing you with a boiler safety check and advice on energy efficiency recommendations.
When Do I Need an Annual Boiler Service? 
The smallest of problems can become a big one if you do not arrange an annual boiler service.
By ensuring that your gas boiler is operating correctly, you can save money on unwanted future repairs. Your gas-safe engineer will be able to identify and fix any minor problems with your boiler, helping you avoid future faults that could be costly.
Your boiler should be serviced once every 12 months; however - there is really no right or wrong time. While you can have your boiler serviced at any time of the year, it's advised to arrange a boiler check during the summer months when you rely on your boiler the least.
There are a few signs to keep an eye out for which may indicate your boiler needs servicing (outside of your regular 12 month service), such as:
  • Poor energy efficiency
  • Slow to heat up
  • Notice that your boiler has started making noises.
  • Boiler leaks
  • Poor air circulation, which could be a related issue to the fan or belt
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Can an Annual Boiler Service Affect Home Insurance?

An annual boiler service is an insurance requirement. 
This is because, with many boiler warranties and business insurance policies, you are legally required to complete a routine service to ensure your boiler unit is safe for you and your family. 
If you avoid getting your boiler serviced, it could run the risk of invalidating your policy as an annual boiler service will meet most requirements set by most insurance policies. However, it is important to check with your insurance provider first to be sure.
It is important to keep in mind that most insurance companies won't cover the cost of a broken boiler if it's not been adequately maintained, nor do they cover the costs of the gas service, however - getting an annual service will eliminate and avoid these potential problems. 
If your boiler is new and has been installed recently, your service may even be free in the first year after your boiler was installed.

Do I Need an Annual Boiler Service as a Landlord?

A yearly boiler service is a legal requirement if you are a landlord, according to the Landlord and Tenant Act (1985).
If you are a landlord, you are obligated to arrange for a qualified Gas Safe registered engineer by law to check the gas appliances and flues yearly to ensure everything is safe and secure. 
The required check outlines that boilers must be serviced in rental properties once a year. This also includes all boiler repairs, including wiring, ventilation, flues, heating, hot water, and sanitary fitting; however, as a landlord, this is up to you.
It is also recommended that other gas appliances also receive a full check, such as gas hobs and fireplaces, must also be checked, as well as the boiler. 
If you’re a tenant, it is important to remember that landlords are not responsible for safety checks on gas appliances that you own or any flues that solely connect to your own gas appliances.
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An Annual Boiler Service Will Keep Your Warranty Valid

If you have a new boiler, one of the many benefits of having an annual boiler service is that you can keep your boiler guarantee valid because without it your boiler can become invalidated if you don’t arrange a yearly service. 
In fact, most boiler manufacturers require a gas-safe engineer to perform a yearly boiler service or any repairs needed; otherwise - you may run the risk of your boiler guarantee becoming invalid.

An Annual Boiler Service Can Reduce Energy Bills

Did you know that by having your boiler serviced every year, you will help your boiler perform at its best and help to reduce your energy bills?
If you have a boiler that has not been serviced in a long while, the boiler will begin to lose efficiency, which will have a knock-on effect on your bills.
By having an annual boiler service it will keep your boiler in top working condition, helping to prevent heating fuel wastage and keeping your energy bills in check.

Prevent Surprising Winter Breakdowns

There is nothing worse than trying to turn your boiler on so you can heat up your home when the colder months set in, only to find there is an issue with your heating system. 
Without heating, it leaves our entire home freezing and grumpy family members with frosty fingers and feet - while trying to keep warm underneath a blanket.
By having your boiler serviced before the coldest months roll around, you can rest assured there won’t be any issues when you first switch on your boiler when you need your heating most.
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It's important to remember that regular maintenance not only ensures the safety of your home and loved ones but also saves you money in the long run. 
Don't wait until it's too late and book your annual boiler service with a trusted gas-safe engineer - so you can enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a well-maintained heating system.
If you require further information, then get in touch with our heating experts or visit your local City Plumbing branch.

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