Annual boiler servicing is an essential part of maintaining a customer’s heating system and ensuring everything is running smoothly. Alex Boweren, Product Manager at Ariston, outlines some of the key boiler servicing essentials.

With over 20 million gas boilers currently installed throughout the UK, regular servicing is paramount. Prior to starting work, installers should show customers their Gas Safe credentials, as well as enquire if they have experienced any problems or issues since their last service. Once this has been done, the service can begin – and should include these five steps:

1. A boiler service should include a visual inspection of the boiler, as well as operating pressure, safety devices and case seals. It is also essential to check the flue (both externally and internally) to ensure it is free from obstructions; this is important, as a blocked domestic boiler flue can result in carbon monoxide (CO) being produced. Flues must also be fitted adhering to Part J of the Building Regulations, allowing a clear passage for the removal of waste gases.
2. The boiler casing should also be removed so that all the main components can be examined – including the burner, heat exchanger, main injector and the spark/sensor probe. The boiler should then be fired safely, allowing any working faults to be identified.
3. Flue gas analysis must be conducted to ensure the boiler is burning the right mixture of gas and air. Installers must have a valid CPA1 (combustion performance analysis) certificate for domestic appliances in order to use flue gas analysers competently and legally. The equipment used must also adhere to BS 7967 – the safety criteria for testing appliances where CO and CO₂ are a factor.
4. Parts should then be cleaned if necessary, before a service report is completed detailing all the work undertaken. The overall boiler service should last around thirty minutes – and be conducted according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Once everything is completed, installers should leave a service log with the customer – both for warranty purposes and to act as service reminder for the following year.

One of the best means for installers to keep updated with servicing and commissioning protocol is to regularly attend manufacturers’ boiler training courses, such as those offered by Ariston. These comprehensively cover every aspect of servicing, including how to inspect, clean and/or position a flue safely, as well as check condensate traps and other hot water-related issues. All relevant documentation should also be explained, such as the ErP technical fiche documentation and the HHIC Benchmark Commissioning List.

So, the importance of servicing should not be underestimated, especially in terms of gas safety, which can often be overlooked by homeowners unless a problem occurs with their boiler. Poorly fitted appliances can also have serious repercussions for occupants. As a result, it rests on installers’ shoulders to ensure customers’ boilers are operating safely and efficiently by encouraging regular annual servicing.

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