It may be tempting to leave it if your boiler appears to be running, and save the cash. At least in the UK, an annual boiler service is one of those “boring but worth it” tasks that should be part and parcel for reasonable quality installs. It incentivises your system to do its job; you will not be broke from heating bills if working properly, and best of all keeps everyone that comes through comfortable and safe.

Does your boiler need a service every year?

A boiler service is not normally a legal obligation for house owners. But, as a rule of thumb, you should be getting it serviced at least every 12 months anyway, and most manufacturer warranties are written with the expectation that your boiler will have regular maintenance. For Boiler Service Cheltenham, contact hprservicesltd.com/cheltenham-boilers/boiler-service-cheltenham

If you are a landlord, you must have an up-to-date Gas Safety Certificate (CP12) at least annually on any gas appliances provided. Again, a gas safety check is not quite the same as having your boiler serviced, but most landlords will book both at the same time.

Benefits of an annual boiler service

Service = Your boiler’s health check. Boiler servicing usually includes inspection of major parts, safe operation tests, leakages/corrosion checks, and testing the correct combustion if it burns fuel properly, which is carried out by a Gas Safe engineer. They’ll also examine flue performance and ventilation, as malfunctions here can have dire consequences.

What happens if you skip it?

Not having a service doesn’t automatically mean your boiler will pack in tomorrow, but it does allow problems to go unnoticed, and there’s more chance of them developing over time.

Common consequences include:

A greater probability of breaking down (that always seem to happen when you have some big party or family trip planned over those cold snaps and winter weekends).

Lower efficiency, which can result in greater heating costs.

Minor flaws escalating to major repairs, all for the want of early detection.

Warranty problems (If your manufacturer needs proof of service).

Danger of fire and explosion (especially if ignition or the flame is affected)

So, is it worth it?

For most households, yes. A boiler service generally tends to cost less than an emergency call-out, and with a yearly service, you’ll be instantly updated on the safety of your property as well as ensuring boiler efficiency.

If it has been longer than 12 months, securing your service now is a wise action, so you are not nervously awaiting issues when winter rolls around.