“Can I Service My Boiler Myself?” is a common question. A Boiler is the most used appliance in any household; it’s running every day even in summer you still need hot water.
Boilers should be serviced annually. Unfortunately, lot’s of homeowners, landlords and tenants don’t bother, and the only time the Boiler gets attention is when it breaks down.
So can you save some money and service your Boiler yourself?
Even though you are not a gas engineer and are not gas safe registered?
Yes, by law you can, you are allowed to service your boiler
You can even service someone else’s boiler as long as there’s no money changing hands. Anyone servicing Boilers for money needs to be fully qualified and Gas Safe Registered.
Is it a good idea to service your Boiler?
No
You are not qualified nor gas safe registered
By servicing your Boiler, you risk Boiler damage and even carbon monoxide poisoning which can kill. Boilers should always be serviced by fully qualified, and gas safe registered engineers. Boiler Servicing is inexpensive therefore the cost of a service is a poor excuse for a potentially dangerous DIY service.
Always get your Boiler serviced by a professional
You can, however, perform some simple Boiler maintenance which will help you boiler run better and save you money over time. here are a few things you can do to your Boiler legally and safely.
Check The Pilot Light
Periodically check your pilot light. The flame should be blue; a blue flame indicates complete combustion, so nothing to worry about your boilers running fine. A yellow or orange flame is cause for concern and could be a carbon monoxide risk, call a gas engineer ASAP.
Check The Pressure
Boilers need a certain amount of pressure to run correctly (usually between 1 and 1.5 bar) it’s normal for boiler pressure to drop over time so don’t worry if you have experienced a drop in pressure, it’s simple enough to top up yourself. Your boiler manual will tell you your required pressure and how to top it up.
Check The Case & Pipes
Check the boiler casing and pipes for any leaks, cracks or black soot marks, all of which are a sign of a problem and that you should get your boiler looked at.
Lag Condensate Pipe
All boilers have an external condensate pipe which can freeze in winter which will cause boiler failure, simple lag this pipe to prevent freezing.
Clear Boiler Cupboard
Boilers are commonly housed in cupboards for a Boiler to work correctly it needs to have some space. Many people use their boiler cupboards for extra storage restricting much-needed ventilation in the process. Don’t be one of those people make sure the cupboard is clear and free from clutter.
And Above All
Get your Boiler serviced annually by a fully qualified gas engineer who will ensure all working parts are running correctly, carry out any necessary repairs and give everything a thorough clean. Boiler servicing is a skilled job that requires certification not a job for DIY enthusiasts, always use a professional. Please see our Boiler Servicing page for more details.
