A professional boiler service is like an MOT for your heating system. It's a thorough inspection, test, and clean carried out by a Gas Safe registered engineer. Here's exactly what we do during a standard service at Ace Plumbing.
The Inspection (Visual Checks)
First, your engineer will carry out a visual inspection of the boiler, flue, and surrounding area. They're looking for:
- Signs of corrosion or leaks around the boiler casing
- Correct flue termination and sealing (especially important for carbon monoxide safety)
- Adequate ventilation around the boiler
- Condition of electrical connections
- General cleanliness and accessibility
Gas Checks
Your engineer will test the gas supply to the boiler, checking:
- Gas pressure at the meter and at the boiler
- Gas flow rate to ensure the boiler is receiving the correct supply
- Inspection of gas connections for leaks using leak detection fluid
Combustion Analysis
This is one of the most important parts of the service. Using a flue gas analyser, your engineer measures:
- CO (carbon monoxide) levels in the flue
- CO₂ levels to check combustion efficiency
- Flue gas temperature
- The ratio of CO to CO₂ (the combustion ratio)
This data tells the engineer whether the boiler is burning gas safely and efficiently. Any readings outside normal parameters indicate a problem that needs addressing.
Cleaning
The engineer will clean key components including:
- The heat exchanger (the core of the boiler)
- The burner assembly
- The condensate trap (on condensing boilers)
- The ignition electrode
Cleaning these components improves efficiency and prevents breakdowns.
Safety Device Testing
All safety devices are tested to ensure they work correctly:
- Overheat thermostat
- Flame sensor / ionisation probe
- Pressure relief valve
- Expansion vessel pressure check
The Certificate
After the service, your engineer provides a service record and Gas Safe certificate. Keep this safe — you'll need it for your manufacturer warranty and if you sell your property.
How Long Does It Take?
A standard boiler service takes 30-60 minutes depending on the boiler type and any issues found.
Book your annual boiler service today. Call Ace Plumbing on 01908 555 888.