If you're looking to have your boiler serviced in Torquay or elsewhere in Torbay, one of the first questions is usually: how much should a boiler service cost? In my experience, a straightforward domestic boiler service in this area typically costs somewhere in the region of £70 to £100, depending on the boiler, the engineer and what is included. At Boilerworx, my standard boiler service is £69.
I've been working on boilers around Torbay for many years, and one thing I think is important is knowing what you're going to pay before the engineer arrives.
What do you get for the money?
A boiler service shouldn't simply involve taking the case off, having a quick look and putting it back together.
During a standard Boilerworx service, I'll check the boiler for safe and correct operation, inspect the relevant components and carry out the manufacturer's recommended service checks where applicable.
This normally includes checks such as:
- Visual inspection of the boiler and flue
- Checking for signs of leaks, corrosion or deterioration
- Checking the boiler's operation and controls
- Combustion analysis where appropriate
- Checking the flue and combustion readings
- Inspection and cleaning of relevant serviceable components where required
- Checking seals and safety-related components
- Identifying developing problems
Exactly what is required varies between boiler manufacturers and models. There's a fuller breakdown of what's included on the boiler servicing page.
Why do boiler service prices vary?
Not every boiler service is the same.
Some boilers are straightforward to inspect and service, while others require more dismantling or cleaning. The age and condition of the boiler can also make a difference.
Occasionally I'll find that a boiler needs more extensive work. A heat exchanger that requires a thorough clean, for example, or components that need replacing.
If additional work is required, I'll explain what I've found and discuss the cost with you before carrying it out. I don't believe in replacing parts simply because a boiler is getting older. If it's safe, working properly and doesn't need something, I'll tell you.
Is a £69 boiler service too cheap?
Price on its own doesn't tell you whether a boiler service is good or bad.
What matters is who is carrying out the service and what they're actually doing for the money.
Boilerworx is a small independent business, so you deal directly with me rather than paying for the overheads associated with a larger heating company.
Can servicing prevent boiler breakdowns?
It can't prevent every breakdown, but regular servicing can identify problems before they become more serious.
I've serviced plenty of boilers around Torbay where I've spotted things such as deteriorating seals, blocked or dirty components, incorrect combustion or early signs of leaks.
Finding something during a planned service is generally preferable to discovering it when the heating stops working on a cold evening.
Regular servicing can also be important for maintaining the manufacturer's warranty on newer boilers, subject to the manufacturer's individual terms.
How often should I have my boiler serviced?
For most domestic boilers, once a year is a sensible interval and is normally what's required where a manufacturer's warranty specifies regular servicing.
A good time to arrange it is during the warmer months or early autumn, before the boiler starts working harder through winter.
That said, there's nothing wrong with having a boiler serviced at any time of year.
Do you service older boilers?
I regularly service boilers that are 10, 15 or even more years old.
An older boiler doesn't automatically need replacing. If it's reliable, safe, parts remain available and it isn't costing a fortune to run or repair, keeping it properly maintained can make more sense than replacing it.
If I think replacement is becoming the more sensible option, I'll explain why, but I won't recommend a new boiler simply because the existing one is old.
Which boiler brands do you service?
I work on most of the major boiler manufacturers found in homes around Torbay, including Vaillant, Worcester Bosch, Viessmann, Ideal, Glow-worm and Baxi, among others.
Having worked on thousands of boilers over the years, I'm familiar with many of the common problems that develop as particular boilers get older.
Booking a service
A standard boiler service is £69.
You'll deal directly with me from booking the appointment through to carrying out the service, not a call centre or a different engineer each year.
If your boiler does need additional work, I'll explain what's required and give you the choice before going ahead.
