Why do we get our boilers serviced?

Why do we get our boilers serviced?  Having a boiler serviced may initially appear like an unnecessary expense.  However, if your boiler needs a service; the longer you leave it, the less efficient it will be running, the more money it will likely cost and the more at risk of a total breakdown you would be!  Having your boiler regularly serviced (recommended annually) means a trained engineer can check it is working as it should be – ensuring all the functions, specifications and parts are working correctly and safely.

Why do we get our boilers serviced? – Benefits of boiler servicing include:

• Improved efficiency – therefore reduced cost in the general running
• Reduce the risk of carbon monoxide gas being released
• Prevention of boiler breakdowns
• Soot production removal
• Carbon Monoxide poisoning risk assessment
• Validation of warranty

One of the main things that can happen within a boiler across the year(s) is excessive soot production.  Operating a gas or oil-burning boiler – a certain amount of soot is normal but an excess of soot production can inhibit heat transfer, making your boiler so much less effective than it should be.  This results in a much higher running cost and higher likelihood of issues.  Soot is a natural part of the process of the combustion of fossil fuels.  A high quantity of soot can be caused by a dirty, clogged or malfunctioning burner, inadequate draft or a low air to fuel ratio, it can also be a result of burning a more cost-effective (low grade) choice of fuel.  Over time, along with causing a boiler to run less effectively – it can also cause wear to the components within the boiler – this generally results in strange noises coming from the boiler.  Having a boiler serviced will check for any build-up and will allow any potential issues to be flagged, typically early enough to do something about!

Carbon monoxide is also a slightly scarier concern. The majority of carbon monoxide related deaths are caused as a result of an open flue. Every year there are around 60 deaths from accidental poisoning across England and Wales. Those who have a boiler with an open flue should certainly be wary as of course it is odourless, colourless and tasteless and therefore impossible to detect, until/unless side effects begin to be felt. The most common symptoms of Carbon monoxide poisoning are headache, stomach pains, drowsiness, dizziness, weakness, upset stomach, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion. CO symptoms are often described as “flu-like so they can easily be confused. Having your boiler serviced will help to eliminate this possibility.

On a less intimidating line but much more practical line – many boiler companies will require a service to be conducted regularly in order to validate any warranties.

A regular service will improve your boiler’s longevity and overall performance thus impacting its efficiency and cost and most importantly, help eliminate any unexpected repairs or replacements as well as faulty boilers having any detrimental impact on health.

Aura Heating can also offer a range of affordable Aura Care/Service Plans.  We know boiler repairs and services can sometimes turn out quite costly although it is an essential part of a home so while we help you with the repairs and services, we can also help you with the cost! There are 5 service care plans to choose from to suit your requirements and help you effectively manage your maintenance and repair costs. You’ll also get a fixed cost, no matter what costs we incur for parts or how long the job takes!