During your service, a Gas Safe Engineer will inspect, test and clean the main parts of your boiler. This helps ensure all components are working safely and efficiently and allows issues to be identified at an early stage. 

Pipework will be inspected, seals examined, pressure and the flue will be checked along with the burner and heat exchanger. 

It is illegal to service your own boiler. Servicing your own boiler is not safe, therefore it is crucial to have this carried out by a professional, qualified Engineer. 

• If you have a gas boiler, only a Gas Safe Registered Engineer should work on your boiler. 
• If you have an oil boiler, this should be serviced by an OFTEC Registered Engineer only.

Multiple signs indicate if your boiler is due a service:

• If you can’t remember when your boiler was last serviced then it is time
• If you boiler is leaking, this is an indication that it is not operating effectively
• If your boiler is slow at heating up
• The boiler is making unusual noises
• The boiler is emitting a foul smell

There is no legal requirement for homeowners to have their boiler serviced annually. However, is it strongly advised to service yearly to help maintain boiler safety, warranty and efficiency.

If you are a landlord, it is a legal requirement for the boiler in your rented property to be serviced annually. 

It is advised to have your boiler serviced at least once a year by a Gas Safe Engineer. An annual service will help ensure your boiler is in good working condition and will keep your boiler manufacturer warranty valid. 

A boiler service can take up to 45 minutes to complete. The length of time a service takes will depend on the age, make and model of your boiler. 

If you don’t service your boiler, over time it will become less efficient and will begin to consume more energy.  Regular servicing also helps identify any faults early before they become large and costly repairs. 

In addition, many boiler manufacturers invalidate boiler warranty if your unit is not serviced once a year.