What Happens During a Boiler Service?

Key Takeaways

✔ A boiler service checks 7 key things to keep your home safe and save money.
✔ It takes under 1.5 hours – faster than binge-watching a Netflix series!
✔ Skipping an annual boiler service can void the warranty and risk carbon monoxide leaks.

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Pro Tip
‍‘Always ask for a Gas Safe ID card – it is illegal for non-experts to service boilers!’
Jack Ford, Lead Engineer

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Why Book an Annual Boiler Service?

Think of your boiler like a car: skip its MOT, and things get risky and expensive! Here is why Surbiton homeowners book yearly services:

• Safety First: faulty boilers can leak carbon monoxide – a silent, deadly gas.
  
• Save Money: a clean, efficient boiler uses less gas – cha-ching!
  
• Avoid Breakdowns: catch small issues before they leave you shivering!
  
• Stay Legal: landlords must service boilers yearly – we handle the paperwork.

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What Happens During a Boiler Service? 

So, what should a gas boiler service include? Here is a step-by-step guide to what our engineer will check during a standard boiler service. We also highlight some typical boiler problems to watch out for.

1. The ‘Eyes-On’ Check

‘Is your boiler healthy? We once found a family of spiders had taken up residence in a flue pipe – their webs were restricting airflow and causing the boiler to overheat.’

• The engineer inspects the boiler casing, pipes, and surrounding area for leaks, corrosion, or rust. They will check for staining around joints (a sign of slow leaks) and ensure ventilation is not blocked.
  
• Typical problems: cracked seals, rodent nests in air vents (yes, really), or debris buildup. A cracked pipe could flood your kitchen!
  
  

2. Controls and Thermostat Check

‘A customer complained their heating was not working. Turns out the thermostat was still set to holiday mode. We fixed it in 30 seconds – but the red face lasted longer!’

• The engineer tests the thermostat calibration by comparing it to a handheld thermometer. They will cycle the heating on and off to ensure your boiler responds correctly.
• Typical problems include faulty wiring, outdated programmers, or thermostats reading 5°C higher or lower than actual room temps.
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3. Gas Pressure and Burn Analysis

‘Is your boiler breathing and burning properly? One client had a boiler running at 40% efficiency due to incorrect pressure. The owner’s gas bills dropped by £300/year after we recalibrated it.’

• Too much or too little gas pressure = inefficiency or danger.
  
• The engineer uses a manometer to measure gas pressure, while a combustion analyser checks CO2/O2 levels. The engineer adjusts the gas valve to optimise efficiency.
  
• Typical problems include pressure that is too high (wastes gas) or too low (causes shutdowns).

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4. Flue Check

‘Is smoke escaping safely? We once serviced a boiler where the flue was angled wrongly, dripping condensation into a wall cavity. The brickwork was rotting – a COSTLY repair avoided by a simple realignment!’

• The flue is the pipe that vents fumes outside. If blocked, deadly gas could stay indoors!
  
• We use a smoke pellet or gas analyser to check for safe flue expulsion and ensure that no fumes leak into the room, which would be a carbon monoxide risk!
  
• Problems include cracked flue joints, improper installation, or bird nests blocking terminals.
  
  

5. Safety Device Test

‘Does the emergency shut-off work? We once found a boiler where the previous “engineer” had jammed the pressure relief valve open with a toothpick. The homeowner had no idea – disaster waiting to happen!’

• Engineers test whether your boiler stops when it overheats – a leading cause of fires.
  
• The engineer manually triggers safety features like the pressure relief valve, flame failure device, and overheat thermostat to ensure they cut off the gas supply.
  
• Problems can include stuck valves, corroded sensors, or DIY tampering.
  
  

6. Heat Exchanger Inspection

‘We came across a heat exchanger that had so much limescale, it looked like a coral reef! The boiler was gasping to stay alive. A power flush saved it – but regular servicing would have prevented it.’

• Using a torch and mirror, the engineer checks the boiler for cracks, limescale buildup, or soot deposits (a sign of incomplete combustion).
• Typical problems include hairline cracks from thermal stress or sludge blocking water channels.
• Grime is scrubbed/cleaned from burners and fans to boost efficiency.

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7. Service Report

Your boiler’s health scorecard!

• Get a gas safety report and tips (like ‘Replace this part in 6 months’).
  
• Landlords must obtain a Gas Safety certificate.

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Pro Tip
‍‘Faulty safety devices cause 1 in 3 boiler emergencies we fix.’
‍Jack Ford, Lead Engineer

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How Long Does a Boiler Service Take?

Most regular boiler services take 45 minutes to 1.5 hours – quicker than waiting for a pizza delivery! At J Ford Heating and plumbing, we will:

• Arrive on time (no 2-hour windows)!
  
• Explain what we are doing (no confusing jargon)!
  
• Leave your home spotless (we are tidy folks)!
  
  

How Much Does a Boiler Service Cost?

The average boiler service in Surrey costs £80–£120.

• Some companies charge £50 but skip safety checks.
  
• Our Promise: transparent pricing (£89 for most homes) plus free reminders.

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Why Choose J Ford Heating & Plumbing?

We are Surbiton’s locally-owned boiler experts with:

✔ 10+ years of local service

✔ Vaillant and Viessmann accredited (10-year guarantees!)

✔ Free service reminders (no more forgetting!)

✔ Same-day appointments

✔ Fixed pricing (no surprises!)

✔ Gas Safe registered engineers

✔ Gas Safe certificates emailed instantly

DIY vs Gas Safe Professional Service: Why Risk It?

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DIY ‘Service’

❌ Illegal for gas work

❌ No certificate (landlords beware!)

❌ Voids warranty

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J Ford Heating & Plumbing

✅ Gas Safe registered

✅ Legal paperwork included

✅ 10-year guarantees on new boilers

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⚠️ IMPORTANT: You need a Gas Safe engineer – or your home insurance could refuse claims!

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What If You Skip a Gas Boiler Service?

‘But my boiler is working fine!’ → Famous last words! Skipping could mean:

• £500+ Repair Bills: sludge buildup kills boilers slowly.
  
• Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: odourless, deadly gas leaks.
  
• No Heat in Winter: breakdowns spike in January!
  
  

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3 Easy Ways to Keep Your Boiler Happy

1. Bleed radiators yearly (if they are cold at the top).
   
2. Keep vents clear (no stuffed toys near the boiler!).
   
3. Book an annual service to keep your boiler working efficiently (we will send a reminder)!
   

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FAQs

Can I service my boiler myself?

Nope! Only Gas Safe engineers can legally work on gas appliances.

How do I know if my boiler needs servicing?

You should get your gas boiler serviced every year. It needs servicing if it has been over a year or is making strange noises!

Do you service old boilers?

Yes! We service all types of boilers. But we will warn you if it is time to upgrade.

Do you check radiators during a boiler service?

Yes, we check that the radiators are working correctly when we service your boiler.

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Do not Gamble With Safety – Book Your Boiler Service Today!

J Ford Heating and plumbing serves Surbiton, Kingston, and Surrey. Call 07585 009 550 or book online.