When you’re paying for central heating, it’s worth ensuring the system is working as efficiently as possible to keep costs down. One of the best ways to do this is to book a gas boiler service, which helps catch any small faults before they escalate into bigger ones. The price of a gas boiler service can vary, but you can typically expect to pay between £75 and £250. The exact cost will depend on what the engineer finds and if any parts need replacing.
The most obvious reason to get your boiler serviced is if the pilot light is out. A pilot light is the ignition for your boiler and if it’s out, you won’t be getting any heat. Other signs that you need a gas boiler service include yellow flames, which indicate that the system isn’t burning cleanly. Additionally, if you notice a foul, metallic odor coming from your boiler, it could be a sign of carbon monoxide poisoning. If this is the case, it’s essential to call an engineer as soon as possible to prevent further damage and potential death.
Another important aspect of a gas boiler service is checking the flue and chimney to ensure there aren’t any cracks or leaks. A leaking flue or chimney can cause dangerous carbon monoxide (CO) to escape into the home, which can make people ill and even lead to death. A carbon monoxide detector can help detect CO and save lives.
During the gas safety check, an engineer will also inspect all of your other gas appliances and make sure they’re operating safely. This includes examining the flue, checking air supply and pressure and checking whether appliances comply with building regulations. Additionally, the engineer will check all of the internal air vents to make sure they’re sealed correctly.
A gas boiler service isn’t the same as a gas safety check, despite being a similar type of inspection. The main difference is that a gas safety check covers more general aspects of your gas appliances, while a gas boiler service focuses on specific areas of the appliance.
In addition, a boiler service can usually be booked more easily than a gas safety check. While both services can be expensive, they’re worth the investment to ensure your boiler is running at its optimal level. Keeping your boiler in tip-top condition will not only improve energy efficiency, but it’ll also increase the life of the machine and prevent costly repairs. If you’re worried about the cost of a boiler service, look into insurance packages that cover part replacement and labor for a set amount of time. In addition, if your boiler is newer and still under warranty, the manufacturer may provide free parts as part of a maintenance package.