We can all agree that a working boiler is a necessity when the weather is out of sorts, and all you can do is dream about walking into a warm, welcoming home.
It is also nice to have hot water because of creature comforts and all that.
In all seriousness, though, even though boilers these days are very reliable and will last for years, it is still a good idea to have them serviced regularly.
Honestly, it should have a spot on your yearly home maintenance checklist.
Maintenance vs Safety Checks
Annual boiler servicing keeps your family safe and protects your home from potential damages. When seeking out a professional to check for issues, always verify that it is a Gas Safe registered engineer doing the work.
Safety checks let you know that everything is working correctly and safely, but it is not the same thing as servicing your boiler. A proper servicing includes inspecting the combustion chambers are in working order as well as all other internal components.
Servicing must be done by a professional.
Warranty Requirements
New boilers have warranties or some sort of guarantee for the first several years after installation. Should you choose to purchase an extended warranty, it is not unusual for one of the requirements to be mandatory annual boiler servicing.
You will need to check the requirements because, in some instances, there are additional requirements stating that only approved engineers can perform the servicing.
Remember to read the fine print, so you do not haphazardly invalidate your warranty.
During the Service
When getting your boiler serviced, several steps are followed to ensure the unit is working as designed. They will typically start with the controls to verify that they were working correctly.
The boiler is also inspected for any leaks or corrosion that could cause future problems. The casing is then removed to examine the inner components. Gas pressure is also checked and verified for what is expected of your model.
A boiler servicer will also test your flue for noxious or dangerous fumes that could harm you or your family. If they detect anything, they will let you know so you can decide what to do next.
In the end, the casing will be popped back in place with a final check of any exposed seals. If everything passes the inspection, then you would typically receive a report or checklist of everything that was examined.
Getting Your Boiler Serviced
Having your boiler serviced is undoubtedly best practice, but if you see other signs indicating service is needed earlier, do not hesitate to call on your local boiler repair specialist.
Some signs include a yellow flame instead of a blue flame, marks or stains around a gas boiler, a pilot light that refuses to stay on, or an increase in the amount of condensation in your boiler room.
Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include nausea, vomiting, headaches, dizziness, fatigue, and difficulty breathing. If you suspect a gas leak, get your boiler inspected as soon as possible and vacate your family and pets.
