A well-maintained boiler is essential for keeping your home warm and your energy bills manageable. Regular servicing ensures that your boiler runs efficiently, prevents breakdowns, and keeps your household safe. But how do you know when your boiler is due for a service?
In this post, we’ll go over the key signs that indicate your domestic boiler needs attention, why regular servicing is essential, and how Complete Gas Heating can help.
1. It’s Been Over a Year Since the Last Service
The easiest way to know when your boiler needs a service is by checking the date of its last one. It’s recommended that homeowners book a boiler service annually to keep it running efficiently and safely. Most manufacturers also require annual servicing to keep the warranty valid.
If it’s been over 12 months since your last service, it’s time to schedule one with a qualified heating engineer.
2. Unusual Noises Coming from the Boiler
Boilers should operate quietly, apart from the usual low hum. If you start hearing banging, whistling, or gurgling sounds, it could indicate issues such as:
- Limescale build-up – A common problem in hard water areas, causing ‘kettling’ (a whistling sound similar to a boiling kettle).
- Air trapped in the system – This may cause loud banging or knocking noises.
- A failing pump or fan – Worn-out components can lead to strange mechanical sounds.
A professional service will identify and resolve the cause before it develops into a bigger problem.
3. Inconsistent Heating or Hot Water
If you’re noticing inconsistent temperatures, lukewarm water, or radiators that don’t heat up properly, your boiler could be struggling. Common causes include:
- A faulty thermostat
- Low boiler pressure
- Sludge or debris in the system
A professional boiler service can diagnose and fix these issues to restore your home’s heating and hot water supply.
4. Higher Energy Bills Without Explanation
If your energy bills are creeping up despite no significant change in usage, your boiler may not be operating efficiently. Over time, boilers lose efficiency due to wear and tear, meaning they have to work harder to produce the same level of heat.
Regular servicing helps optimise your boiler’s performance, reducing energy waste and saving you money in the long run.
5. Pilot Light or Flame Issues
For gas boilers with a pilot light, it should burn a steady blue flame. If you notice:
- A yellow or orange flame, this may indicate incomplete combustion, which can produce carbon monoxide.
- A pilot light that keeps going out, suggesting a potential issue with the thermocouple or gas supply.
If you spot any of these issues, book a service immediately to ensure your boiler is safe and working correctly.
6. Strange Smells Around the Boiler
A healthy boiler should not emit any odours. If you notice any strange smells, especially a faint sulphuric or burning scent, it could indicate a gas leak or overheating components.
If you ever suspect a gas leak, turn off the gas supply immediately and contact the National Gas Emergency Service at 0800 111 999. Then, arrange for a professional engineer to inspect your boiler.
7. Low Boiler Pressure
A drop in boiler pressure can lead to heating inefficiencies. You can check your boiler’s pressure gauge – if it’s below 1 bar, it may need repressurising. While some homeowners can top up the pressure themselves, low pressure may indicate a leak or another underlying issue that requires professional attention.
8. Leaks or Drips Around the Boiler
Water leaks are a clear sign that your boiler needs servicing. Leaks can be caused by:
- A broken internal component, such as a pump or pressure valve
- Corrosion within the system
- Loose pipe connections
Ignoring leaks can lead to more significant damage, so it’s best to have an engineer inspect and repair the issue as soon as possible.
Why Regular Boiler Servicing Matters
Annual servicing is not just about preventing breakdowns—it also ensures:
✅ Safety – Faulty boilers can leak dangerous carbon monoxide, which is odourless and potentially lethal.
✅ Efficiency – A serviced boiler runs more efficiently, saving you money on energy bills.
✅ Longevity – Regular maintenance extends the life of your boiler, delaying the need for costly replacements.
✅ Warranty Compliance – Many manufacturers require annual servicing to keep your warranty valid.
Book Your Boiler Service with Complete Gas Heating
If your boiler is showing any of these signs – or if it’s simply been over a year since your last service – now is the perfect time to schedule a check-up.
At Complete Gas Heating, our Gas Safe registered engineers provide professional, reliable boiler servicing to keep your home warm and your system running smoothly.
📞 Contact us today to book your boiler service and ensure your heating stays in top condition all year round.