Do I need to get my boiler serviced?

It might seem like yet another extra expense, but there are some very good reasons to get your boiler serviced every year.

Keep your family safe

There are lots of reasons why you need to get your boiler serviced, but the most important is to keep your loved ones safe from harm. Getting your boiler serviced regularly will help to keep it running safely. A faulty boiler can be incredibly dangerous. From 2010-2020, over a hundred people a year died because of accidental carbon monoxide poisoning in England and Wales.1

During your boiler service, a Gas Safe registered engineer will check for leaks and issues, giving you the peace of mind that comes from protecting your family.

Early warning of issues

Small problems can become big ones if left unattended. By ensuring that your boiler is running properly, you can save money on future repairs. Your engineer can detect and fix any minor problems to help avoid future malfunctions that could be costly.

Save on energy bills

Servicing is, of course, another home expense. But it could help to save you money in the long run. During your service, your engineer will carry out a host of checks to make sure that your boiler is working efficiently. This will, in turn, save you money over time, as a more efficient boiler costs less to run. How efficient your boiler can be depends on its age and the type you have, but it’s worth trying our tips to improve your boiler's efficiency.

It’s an insurance requirement

With many boiler warranties and business insurance policies, you’re actually required to complete a regular service to ensure your boiler is safe. If you don’t, it could invalidate your policy. An annual boiler service will meet most insurance policy requirements, though you’ll need to check with your insurance provider to be sure.

If you’re a British Gas HomeCare customer, then your cover includes an annual service visit. And even if you’re not, you can still book a boiler service with us.

Legally required for landlords

If you’re a landlord, then a gas safety check is a legal requirement. A qualified Gas Safe registered engineer must, by law, check gas appliances and flues annually to ensure everything is safe and sound. The required check includes boilers, but they also cover other gas appliances such as hobs and fireplaces. If you’re a tenant it’s worth noting that landlords are not responsible for safety checks on gas appliances that you own, or any flues that solely connect to your own gas appliances.

When should you get your boiler serviced?

Summer is the best time to book your service in. Not only will you be making sure you’re set for winter when you’ll need your boiler the most, but also engineers tend to be less busy during the warmer months of the year.

Whenever you decide to get your boiler serviced, make sure to note the date and set yourself a reminder to book the next one in. And always book a Gas Safe registered engineer.

Book a boiler service

Additional information

  1. Carbon monoxide deaths and poisonings for the past 10 years Source: ons.gov.uk