To be honest, It’s difficult to predict exactly when a boiler is about to break down, but when it does, it’s when you least expect it and often in the midst of winter! However, with an annual boiler service, a gas boiler’s running condition and efficiency can be assessed to check if all is running as per the manufacturer’s instructions. This means you have heating and hot water and a cosy environment.
An annual boiler service usually detects any early signs of a fault and nips it in the bud before it becomes an expensive breakdown/repair. Being without heating or hot water during the winter months can be dreadful, especially for the vulnerable in society.
Heating and hot water are key, but how your boiler manages the harmful CO fumes generated is more important. Sadly, every year in the UK, a number of people lose their lives to carbon monoxide poisoning because of problems with combustion. If there isn’t enough oxygen, it produces this deadly byproduct – Carbon Monoxide (CO). This toxic gas needs to be removed via the flue. If it enters the home, then the inhabitants are at risk of poisoning!
A few (among many) of the prime inspections during an annual boiler service is flame performance – is it burning correctly (to avoid CO forming)? Are the fumes being removed effectively? Any CO leaks will be identified by the service engineer, and recommendations will be given. So, don’t wait until it’s too late, i.e., in the middle of winter, to have your boiler serviced. Book your service BEFORE winter sets in, September/October is an ideal time for a boiler service rid your boiler of any obvious faults that could end in a breakdown!
An annual boiler service by a gas safe registered engineer ensures that all potential boiler problems are addressed before they become expensive and or jeopardise anyone’s well-being. We believe that implementing these preventative measures can prolong the service life of a boiler and increase its energy efficiency, which could keep those expensive energy bills in check.
Why is it necessary to have an annual boiler service?
- Save money in the long run.
- Ensure the safety of your boiler.
- Increase the efficiency of your boiler.
- Keep your boiler from breaking down.
- Comply with the conditions of the boiler warranty.
A few signs of a faulty boiler
1. Insufficient heat.
Radiators not heating, no hot water or both could point to a faulty diverter valve.
Have you noticed a radiator or radiator warming up in the middle of summer when the heating is turned off? It could be the diverter valve is letting hot water pass into the radiators caused by a faulty valve.
You may have noticed the boiler pressure is too low or too high, a faulty pilot light, a frozen condensate pipe causing the boiler to shut down, or, worst still, an intermittent problem, where it seems the heating/hot water cycle has a mind of its own! These problems are beyond an easy tweak, as recommended in the fault-finding section in the boilers manual. You can only go so far with some faults that don’t require a qualified gas-registered engineer. Anything outside the fault-finding section (that you can do) should be left to a professional.
2. Boiler pressure fluctuations. (low or high)
Boiler pressure is just like the heartbeat; it should remain constant. However, if the boiler’s pressure is too low or high for an extended period, it could indicate an underlying issue. Again, this should be diagnosed by a professional boiler repair engineer.
3. Yellow/orange colour boiler flame.
While it’s normal for the flame of your appliance to burn bright blue, a yellow or orange tint is a warning sign that something might be amiss with combustion. You’ve probably experienced this with your gas cooker in the kitchen. The same goes for boiler combustion. With a clear blue flame, it implies that the gas has burned completely and safely. Any yellow/orange or red in the burner flame could indicate insufficient combustion. If you recognise these visual symptoms, then call serviceteam Ltd. Our gas safe registered engineers will investigate and rectify the fault.
Don’t delay calling us if you find something out of the ordinary.
4. Boiler temperature or circulation problem.
Debris in the radiator (sludge) may cause thermostat or circulation problems if the boiler continues to run even when the pre-set temperature has been reached. These issues can be identified during an annual boiler service.
What does an annual boiler service cover?
Undoubtedly, an annual boiler service aims to keep your heating system running smoothly for longer and ensure it’s in good working condition.
1. Visual inspection.
Once the boiler cover has been removed, the boiler will first undergo a visual inspection by the gas-safe engineer. They will search for any visible damages or wear and tear to identify any emerging issues. Additionally, they will clean the boiler and check the pipework connections. Use a flue gas analyser to check if any dangerous fumes are present. Gas-tight and watertight tests and any indications of overheating or damage to the electrics.
2. Check for combustion and flue.
During the boiler service, the engineers will also check the flue to make sure nothing is restricting the egress of gasses from the property. The boiler’s ability to burn the correct proportion of gas and air will be evaluated using a flue gas analysis.
In addition to the above inspections, our engineer will check the system pressure, gas pressure, ventilation, thermostat, pilot light, and safety controls as part of this annual boiler service.
Plan your boiler service ahead!
Regarding the annual boiler service, the best advice is to have it serviced during the summer months or late autumn, as you will benefit from shorter waiting times and more appointment flexibility. Gas-safe registered companies typically charge between £80 and £90 plus VAT for an annual boiler service. An annual service plan could be the best option to give peace of mind.
For instance, a WHICH survey has found that, on average, £297 is spent on boiler cover per annum; depending on the type of cover you select, it may include the cost of the call out, replacement parts and labour. If you opt to ‘pay as you go,’ you only pay for the visit plus parts (if required), a one-off payment. With a boiler cover policy, you may have several years trouble-free but will still have to pay the annual insurance premium. With ‘pay as you go’, you are in charge. Investigate which service strategy works best for you.
When you have a newly installed boiler, the manufacturer will ask that you service it once a year to keep the warranty/certificate valid. The manufacturer’s warranty or guarantee may be voided if the boiler breakdown and service records are not continuous. This implies that you will be liable for covering the cost of the repairs.
Book a gas-safe engineer to service your boiler!
Serviceteam gas-safe engineers are available 24/7 throughout London and its surrounding areas. We won’t leave you out in the cold. Pre-book your annual boiler service now and keep your home and family warm and cosy.
Contact our 24/7 customer help desk, or book us online.
To discover our complete range of services, visit www.serviceteam. We’ve got you covered.