Annual Gas Boiler Service or Boiler Breakdown Repair
A boiler service should only be carried out by a qualified and registered heating engineer who will:
- check that the heating system is correctly installed in line with regulations
- check that it is working safely and
- check it is working correctly and efficiently according to the manufacturers' instructions
The engineer is checking and testing to a well defined set of criteria, standards and regulations. There is a guide to the service procedure in the manual which accompanies the boiler and should be retained by the homeowner from when the boiler was installed. The boiler must be working for it to be serviced.
A boiler service is not:
repairing a faulty appliance, this is a different job altogether
a homeowner's or landlord's gas safety check, although checking safety is a part of it.
Different types of boiler will require different work, at the very least the engineer should:
- check the condition of the boiler
- test for leaks
- test the gas pressure
- check valves and pump
- check the appliance is working correctly
- ensure it is not producing excessive carbon monoxide
- check that there is adequate ventilation
- and make sure that the flue is clear and safe
They will also check the position of the boiler. Things that have happened around the heating system since the previous inspection may have an impact on the safety of the system, such as anything which blocks the flue or ventilation.
An old style cast iron boiler with open flue will involve lots of dismantling and cleaning which is not required for modern boilers. A modern boiler may require more of a system performance test rather than a full clean.
How Long Will a Boiler Service Take?
The engineer could take from as little as thirty minutes to well over an hour, this will depend on the work involved, the type and condition of the boiler. It is not the same thing as a Homeowner or Landlord Gas Safety Record as defined by law in the U.K. which requires the completion of form CP12.
How Much Should a Boiler Service Cost?
Obviously the price will vary because of the different work involved. Some of the major British companies advertise prices in the range of £60-£75, however, in excess of £100 may be reasonable for some situations. It is usually cheaper in the summer months as heating engineers are busy with faults in the winter.
You are paying for an expert who has trained and undertakes regular training; who is qualified; who holds insurance; and who pays for annual registration with the professional licensing body. This is a very competitive industry, therefore, many gas engineers will offer you a good deal for your annual service in the hope that they will also win the more lucrative work of undertaking your boiler repairs and eventually replacing your boiler.
When do I Need a Gas Boiler Service?
The boiler manufacturer will probably recommend it be serviced every year. The details of frequency of servicing and what is involved will be detailed in the user manual.
When was your boiler last serviced?
Call Combi Gas on 07964 097821 or email us at info@combigas.co.uk to arrange an appointment.
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