What does a Gas Boiler Service Include?

Introduction

Regular boiler servicing is imperative for keeping your heating system efficient, safe, and long-lasting.

Here you can read what process I follow when carrying out a standard gas boiler service.

1. Visual Inspection

First, I start with a visual check of your boiler and flue. I look for any obvious signs of wear, damage, or corrosion, and ensure the flue is securely fitted and free from obstructions.

2. Initial Boiler Test

Before diving into the service, I test the boiler to see if it’s working properly. This helps me spot any immediate issues and gives me a baseline to compare its performance after the service.

3. Draining the Boiler

If your boiler has a magnetic filter with a drain valve, I’ll drain it by this as it kills two birds with one stone; it drops the boiler pressure and cleans the filter at the same time. For filters without a drain valve, like the Magnaclean, I’ll clean this usually once I've dropped the boiler pressure.

4. Checking and Recharging the Expansion Vessel

For system and combi boilers, I will check the expansion vessel pressure while the boiler pressure is at 0 bar. If needed, I’ll recharge it. This step is often overlooked by others, but it’s essential for preventing pressure loss and ensuring your boiler runs smoothly.

5. Cleaning the Heat Exchanger and Burner

If your boiler has a round stainless steel heat exchanger, like those in the Ideal Vogue, Baxi 800, or Viessmann Vitodens models, I remove the burner and clean the inside of the primary heat exchanger. I also clean the electrodes and clear any debris from the burner.

For Vaillant boilers, I don’t remove the burner during a standard service because these boilers contain a graphite seal, which needs replacing if disturbed. This would add another £25 to each service and Vaillant only specifies removing the burner if the flue gas readings are out.

For older boilers with atmospheric burners, I’ll remove and clean the burner.

6. Condensate Trap Cleaning

Next, I clean the condensate trap to prevent blockages that could cause your boiler to break down.

7. Removing Dust and Debris

I do my best to remove as much dust and debris from inside the boiler as possible. Some more spacious and better laid out boilers are easier to clean out than others.

8. Pressure and Gas Checks

I then check the gas inlet pressure, fan pressure (for Worcester Bosch boilers), burner pressure (for older models). and correct gas consumption by gas rating the boiler

9. Flue Gas Analysis

I perform a flue gas analysis in both high and low rates. This checks the combustion efficiency and ensures that the boiler is burning fuel safely and efficiently.

10. Service Record Completion

I complete the service record and provide you with a copy. This keeps a documented history of your boiler's maintenance, which is important for warranties and resale value.

11. Benchmark Record Update

I’ll then update the service details in your boiler's manual in the benchmark section, keeping track of the boiler’s service history.

12. Range Rate

If it’s my first time servicing your boiler, I’ll check the master settings, particularly the central heating KW output. I often find that it’s left at the factory default, which is usually too high for the system size. I’ll adjust (range rate) it to a more appropriate output—typically between 1 - 1.5 kW per radiator, depending on your property’s insulation.

13. Customer Discussion and Report

Finally, I’ll sit down with you to discuss my findings. I’ll report any issues, advise on necessary repairs, and answer any questions you may have.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What happens if my boiler is in poor condition?

A: If your boiler is in poor condition and beyond a standard service, I’ll go through the boiler with a fine comb and provide a detailed report. This will include all the issues found and a plan of action to get your boiler back up to a good standard.

Q: Do you bleed radiators as part of a boiler service?

A: No, I do not bleed the radiators as part of a boiler service. Bleeding radiators is a separate task that can be done as needed, but it’s not included in the standard boiler service.

Q: Do you have different levels of boiler servicing?

A: Yes, the service outlined above is our standard service, which aligns with your boiler manufacturer’s recommendations to keep it well maintained. We also offer a major service, which we recommend every five years. This more in-depth service covers additional checks and maintenance tasks. If you’d like more information about our major service, feel free to speak to one of our team members.

If you need expert assistance, don't hesitate to get in touch. At Kesselmann, we provide boiler servicing in Hull, and throughout East Yorkshire and North Lincolnshire.