Boilers or water heaters are a popular option in colder climates and areas of the US and their efficiency is fundamental for reducing energy costs. 

Although modern-day boilers are incredibly advanced and are designed to be impressively long-lasting, they are still subject to wear and tear and will develop problems eventually. Like all appliances, they need to be cared for and maintained.

This is why boiler service plays a significant role in ensuring your boilers' longevity, functionality, and efficiency. 

Like most homeowners, if you are wondering what you can get from regularly servicing your boiler, this is for you. You'd want to be able to maximise the use of your boiler for a long time, so read on!

Overview of Boiler Servicing

Yes, your boiler needs to be maintained. You may have heard that it should be at least once a year, and this is true. Every boiler manufacturer would agree that scheduling yearly maintenance and servicing is the best idea. For newly purchased boilers, this is covered under the warranty of the installation.

Annual boiler servicing is essential for updated diagnostics. A proactive approach is crucial to minimize the risks of your boiler acting up or encountering problems on days you most need it. 

Aside from this clear reason, learn more about why regular boiler servicing is essential:

1. It can save your life

This is the alarming truth: more than 30 deaths and over 1,000 injuries have been associated with boiler-related issues that could have been avoided if servicing had been done. In 2015, 393 deaths occurred due to accidental carbon monoxide poisoning. Most tragic losses happened in December, January, and February—the coldest months when boilers and heating systems were in full blast 24/7.

You don't want anyone to experience discomfort, pain, or worse, because of your boiler malfunctioning. This should be enough for you to understand the importance of regular inspections and servicing. Let your boiler's technicians run tests on your system every year to ensure it passes regulations. It is imperative to get it done because it can save your life and those of your loved ones.

2. It can minimise unwanted expenses

Boiler repairs can make a considerable dent in your household budget. By following the recommended regular servicing schedule for your boiler, you can be confident that it won't cause any problems in the future. Minor issues can be addressed in real time, keeping your expenses low.

Remember that unresolved, unrepaired issues can lead to bigger, more severe problems and damage in the near future. You might have to choose between getting your badly malfunctioning boiler repaired or purchasing a new one, and unfortunately, both will cost you a lot.

3. It can lower your energy bills

Regular maintenance of your boiler not only prevents breakdowns but also ensures efficient operation, leading to lower energy bills. The fuel consumption of a gas boiler depends on factors like its type, age, condition, and efficiency rating, as well as the size of your home. An efficient boiler, especially in its first year, can significantly reduce utility costs. Hence, annual check-ups are essential to maintain optimal efficiency.

4. It will help you identify problems and damage early

When you schedule boiler servicing, you are not just doing yourself a favour. Your boiler manufacturer and engineer will benefit when you know the importance of preventive maintenance. The longer you let a problem go, the worse it becomes and more complicated for these professionals to resolve. Let them know of any issues you have been experiencing with your boiler so they can track down the root of the problem.

Consulting with your boiler servicing team will help them identify certain problems. This will give them a good idea of the potential causes of why your boiler is not performing optimally or correctly.

5. It guarantees your boiler’s insurance coverage

Most, if not all, of the boiler warranties offered today, including their insurance coverage, require you to do your part to ensure that the boiler is subjected to regular servicing. This is a small part that you have to fulfil, knowing that it is a requirement for homeowners.

Note that replacing a boiler is quite a considerable expense and even a liability for the manufacturer and insurance companies. So, when you get your boiler serviced regularly, you are not just abiding with the stipulated policies but also doing yourself and your wallet a favour.

Usually, when you get your boiler, it comes with an operation manual and a maintenance milestone. This is a guide on what you need to keep an eye on and certain elements for your boiler inspectors to check and track. This document will prove that you are upholding and fulfilling what's expected from you as an owner, as stated in your warranty.

6. It ensures your boiler always delivers

Imagine your boiler working perfectly throughout the year, but it malfunctions in the middle of winter. You'll be left with a freezing house and family members that are grumpy and cold. Don't let this happen. A winter breakdown is the last thing you will worry about if you get boiler servicing done regularly.

You can always be confident that it will deliver when you need your boiler during the cold months. Your system will warm your home in minutes and provide you with all your hot water needs.

Landlords are legally required to have a yearly gas safety inspection and certificate. This will ensure that all installed boilers, flues, pipe works, and other elements associated with your heating system are repaired, checked, and safe for everyone living on the property.

The Boiler Servicing Process

So, what happens when your boiler is subjected to maintenance? Note that the primary goal of boiler servicing is to ensure that all equipment is operating as expected because this would directly impact safety issues and related regulation standards.

During a boiler service, the assigned engineer will do the following:

  • Evaluate the physical appearance of the boiler and how it functions. The gas pressure is checked to ensure it delivers as needed. You can share your own observations about how the boiler has been performing.
  • Make sure there are no indications of leaks and corrosion on the exterior.
  • Ensure that the ventilation requirements of your boiler are met and that it is at par with industry standards.
  • Check that the pipes are clean and intact.
  • Clean certain areas as needed and inspect the ins and outs of the heating system, such as the filters.
  • Ensure that your boiler is Gas Safe by performing a Gas Tightness test.
  • Provide recommendations if repairs or further inspections are needed.
  • Issue your Boiler Service Certificate.

Conclusion

Getting your boiler serviced and maintained will benefit your household in the long run. Not only will you be confident that your boiler is working as efficiently as it should, but it will also provide you peace of mind that it won't cause you or your loved ones harm. Don’t delay or find excuses not to get this done.