​​Why do I need a boiler service? Here’s what happens when you don’t service your boiler. ​

Neglecting to service your boiler can have serious consequences, both financially and in terms of safety. Although it might feel like an unnecessary expense, skipping routine maintenance on your boiler can end up costing you much more money in the long run.

Time is money, or in this case energy, which could cost you.

Firstly, not servicing your boiler can lead to a decrease in its efficiency. Over time, debris and dirt can build up inside the boiler’s components, causing it to work harder than necessary. This results in higher energy bills as the boiler consumes more fuel to produce the same amount of heat. According to Energy Saving Trust, an inefficient boiler could increase your heating costs by up to 30%. By regularly servicing your boiler, a heating engineer will clean out any buildup and ensure that all parts are working efficiently, helping you save on energy costs.

You break it, you buy it. Or in this case, buy it again.

Another consequence of neglecting to service your boiler is potential breakdowns and repairs. Just like any other mechanical equipment you own, boilers are prone to wear and tear with regular use. Without proper maintenance and upkeep, small issues can escalate into bigger problems that require costly repairs, replacement of parts or even the boiler altogether. So, the next time you find yourself reconsidering getting your boiler serviced based on what one boiler service costs, don’t forget to calculate the expenses of future repairs.

Being without hot water or heating during the spring and summer months might not seem so bad, but let’s not forget that British summers tend to fluctuate as much as the tides. A cold shower on a hot morning might seem refreshing, but it becomes inconvenient and uncomfortable when you don’t have the option to switch back to hot water for those colder evenings. 

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Investing in the lifespan of your boiler could be beneficial for your health and safety. 

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One of the most important reasons to prioritise regular boiler servicing is to ensure the safety of your home and family. A boiler that is not regularly maintained can pose serious safety hazards, including carbon monoxide leaks, fire risks, and explosions.

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colourless, odourless gas that can be produced by faulty or poorly maintained boilers. It is extremely dangerous as it can cause severe health issues such as headaches, dizziness, nausea, and even death. Without regular servicing, small cracks or leaks in the boiler’s heat exchanger can go unnoticed and result in CO emissions. In fact, according to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), gas appliances are responsible for over 50 deaths each year due to carbon monoxide poisoning.

You have given you plenty of reasons as to why you should service your boiler even when it’s working just fine. Maybe you’ve waited a bit too long and your boiler is in need of more urgent TLC. Find out what a boiler service actually includes here. If you’re just looking for answers as to what’s happening with those noises coming from your boiler, keep reading below. 

Gurgling, whistling or banging noises, no hot water or a leaking boiler.

Whether it’s a pilot light that keeps going out, a boiler that is making a vibrating noise, or a leak that is starting to create damage, if you can avoid issues with your central heating system, you also don’t need to pay for expensive repairs. 

A leaking system for instance, can result from a broken component, such as a seal or valve. It could also be the result of corrosion. While potential breakdowns and repairs are an inevitable part of owning a boiler, prioritising regular boiler servicing significantly reduces the risk.

One of the main reasons why boilers breakdown is due to neglecting regular maintenance. Over time, boilers can accumulate dirt, debris, and mineral deposits which can affect their efficiency and performance. This build-up can also lead to overheating, which puts extra strain on various components of the boiler, eventually causing them to fail.

Warranty goes beyond the receipt

Another potential hazard of an unmaintained boiler is the risk of fire. When boilers are not serviced regularly, dust and debris can accumulate inside the unit which can lead to overheating and potentially start a fire. Additionally, if there are any electrical faults within the boiler’s wiring or controls, it could also increase the risk of a fire breaking out.

In addition to preventing health issues, property damage and breakdowns, regular servicing also extends the lifespan of your boiler. By ensuring all parts are functioning properly and replacing any worn-out components, you are reducing the chances of major malfunctions or complete system failure. A well-maintained boiler can last up to 15 years, whereas a neglected one may only have a lifespan of 8-10 years. By having your boiler serviced annually, you can identify any potential issues and have them fixed before they escalate into bigger problems that affect its lifespan. This means you won’t have to spend large sums on expensive repairs or even a full replacement in the future. 

It’s important not only to schedule yearly services but also be aware of warning signs that indicate your boiler needs immediate attention. These include unusual noises such as banging or whistling sounds coming from your boiler, leaks or drops in water pressure levels, fluctuating temperature settings, and a yellow or orange flame instead of a blue one.

So what a boiler service costs is not just about the actual service, but also about the costs made over time. Furthermore, most manufacturers require proof of annual servicing in order for their warranties to remain valid. If your boiler breaks down within its warranty period and you cannot provide evidence of regular maintenance, you may end up having to cover repair costs out-of-pocket.