What actually is a boiler service and what does it involve?

The boiler servicing procedure is quite different for most companies.

For a few, no names, it's just, inserting the flue gas analyser probe in to the flue, printing off the readings.

If they're within the limits, that's the boiler serviced.

To me, a boiler installer, that's not a boiler service, it's just a combustion check and nothing else.

The boiler servicing procedure that I use goes a little like this.

Arrive at the property at the arranged time, if running late, contact your client to keep informed, nothing worse than looking forward to someone to arrive.

Once at the house, introduce yourself, show the client the Gas Safe ID card, explain how exactly to check the card details.

This can reassure your client that you are a specialist registered gas safe engineer.

Now the card is out of the way, politely ask the client showing you the boiler location.

Ask if they have experienced any issues with the boiler recently, has anything changed on the heat, gets the system been drained, any radiators replaced.

This will give you an idea of what things to look out for.

Now The boiler Servicing

First, we carry out a visual inspection of the boiler.

1 Check that the boiler is installed correctly, also to current regulations.

2 Is the flue connected to the boiler the correct way and safe for use?

3 Look for any damage to the boiler that could impair its operation.

4 Ensure that if ventilation is necessary it is the correct size.

5 Check for any signs of water leakage within the boiler.

6 Search for any former repairs.

7 Make sure the boiler is right, for the size of the property.


8 Run the boiler in both heating and hot water modes before commencing the service.

By running the boiler, this proves that both the warm water and heating were both working at the time of the service.

Some scrupulous customers make an effort to say the boiler was working before you completed the service, when actually is was not.

By undertaking this check it is possible to confirm if the boiler was working or not.

Now onto Checking The Gas Meter

Check over the located area of the gas meter, carry out a risk assessment, making certain everything conforms to current gas regulations.

Does the Emergency Control Valve have a handle fitted, therefore the gas can be isolated and made safe should a situation occur?

Check the Protective equipotential earth bonding is linked to the outlet side of the gas meter and is the correct size.

Check the gas for leakage

Carry out a let by test to establish the emergency control valve isn't letting gas through when switched off.

Now perform the gas tightness test on the prescribed times, once complete, print off the outcomes and put on the boiler service certificate.

The Boiler

Some makes of boiler have a fault memory which might be checked, they normally store around 10 faults, this will let you know what has been happening and what things to look out for.

Check the gas operating and working pressures, making certain they are within the limits.

Isolate Great site to the boiler, while at the same time check that the fuse fitted is of the correct size.

Depending on make and model, follow the boiler servicing procedure as per instructions in the boiler manual.

If you don't get access to the boiler manual you can download a copy from the internet, just search for the make and model you will need, and download it.

Turn the boiler power back on, recheck both the warm water and heating are still working.

Now we move on to the gas rate, this has to be checked to make certain the boiler is getting enough gas. There are many apps available to help you perform a gas rate.

We now perform another gas tightness test at the meter to make sure you can find no gas leaks.

Boiler Servicing procedure Certificate

Now that the boiler service has been completed, remove all tools and any dust sheets from the website, making sure the working area round the boiler has been left clean and tidy.

Enter all the details of the boiler service on the certificate.

If needed, attach any warning notices to the boiler, complete a warning notice certificate and inform the client of your findings.

Explain why the boiler has failed, and what's required to take it up to regulation standards.

Finally, hand over all the paperwork to your client including the invoice.

Ask the client if they are pleased with your service, and would they be so kind to leave an assessment for you.

Every company has their very own way of carrying out a boiler service, the above is our boiler servicing procedure.