When your heating’s working fine, it’s easy to forget about your boiler. But when the cold weather arrives, the last thing you want is to wake up to no heating or hot water. That’s where regular boiler servicing comes in.
If you’ve ever wondered whether a yearly service is really necessary, you’re not alone. It might seem like another job to add to the list, especially when everything seems to be running smoothly. But having your boiler checked once a year can save you money, prevent problems, and keep your home safe.
What Happens During a Boiler Service
A boiler service is a full check-up for your heating system. It’s carried out by a Gas Safe-registered engineer and usually takes less than an hour. During the visit, they’ll inspect, test, and clean all the main components of your boiler to make sure everything’s working as it should.
They’ll usually:
- Check the pressure and temperature settings
- Clean the burner, heat exchanger, and internal parts
- Test for carbon monoxide leaks
- Inspect the flue and ventilation
- Make sure all safety devices are working properly
At the end, you’ll get a report showing what’s been checked and whether anything needs attention.
Why It’s Important to Use a Gas Safe Registered Engineer
Only Gas Safe-registered engineers are legally allowed to work on gas boilers in the UK. It’s always worth checking that the person servicing your boiler is qualified and registered. Ask to see their Gas Safe ID card before they start, and you can also look them up on the official Gas Safe Register website.
Hiring someone unregistered can be dangerous and might even void your boiler’s warranty or home insurance. When you book professional boiler servicing, always make sure you’re using a qualified engineer. It’s the best way to keep your system safe and your home protected.
Why a Yearly Service Makes Sense
Even if your boiler seems fine, small issues can build up slowly over time. An annual service helps catch them before they turn into bigger, more expensive problems.
Here’s why it’s worth doing every year:
- It keeps your boiler efficient: Dust, rust, and debris can make your boiler work harder than it should. A clean, well-maintained boiler uses less energy to heat your home and can lower your gas bills.
- It keeps your home safe: A faulty boiler can leak carbon monoxide, which is dangerous and has no smell. A service includes safety checks to make sure everything’s properly ventilated and running safely.
- It protects your warranty: Most boiler manufacturers require yearly servicing to keep the warranty valid. If you skip a service and something goes wrong, you could end up paying for repairs that would otherwise be covered.
- It prevents winter breakdowns: Boilers often fail when they’re first switched back on in autumn. A quick service before the cold weather hits helps ensure your heating is ready when you need it most.
What Happens If You Skip a Service
It might not seem like a big deal to miss a year, but even small problems can get worse if they’re left too long. A small leak, a blocked flue, or low pressure might not stop your heating immediately, but they can cause bigger issues down the line.
A neglected boiler also runs less efficiently, which means higher energy bills and more strain on your system. And if you’re a landlord, annual servicing isn’t just recommended – it’s required by law.
How Much Does It Cost?
In 2025, you’re looking at around £70 to £120 for a standard boiler service, though for more complex systems, it may be a bit higher. It’s a small price to pay when you consider that a new boiler can cost thousands. Some people choose to take out a service plan that covers both annual checks and emergency repairs, which can make budgeting easier.
When’s the Best Time to Book?
The ideal time for a boiler service is late summer or early autumn. Engineers are less busy, and you’ll have peace of mind knowing your heating will be ready when the cold weather arrives.
If you can’t remember the last time your boiler was serviced, it’s definitely time to book one.
Keep Your Boiler Happy All Year
A yearly boiler service is one of the easiest ways to keep your heating reliable, efficient, and safe. It helps prevent breakdowns, keeps your bills down, and can extend the life of your boiler.
It’s a simple job that makes a big difference – and once it’s done, you can relax knowing your heating will be there when you need it most.
