Boiler repairs and replacements are very expensive, so what can you do to look after your boiler and avoid costly repairs?
Here are our top 10 boiler maintenance tips to prolong the life of your boiler:
1. Get it serviced annually
It’s a good idea to get your boiler serviced annually by a registered engineer to ensure it is running as safely and efficiently as it should. Remember to also inspect it regularly for any signs of leaks or damage.
2. Check the pressure
Check the pressure regularly and adjust it, if you need to, so that it matches the recommended settings in your boiler manual.
3. Run it regularly in the summer
In warmer months, you should run your central heating for 10-15 minutes to keep the pumps working, and make sure that the boiler’s pipes are correctly lagged, to stop them from freezing during cold weather.
4. Test the timer
Test your central heating timer by changing the settings regularly, and bleed your radiators to remove air pockets from your central heating system.
5. Watch out for black marks
Sooty black marks around the boiler are a dangerous sign of a possible combustion problem. If you see these marks, call a qualified engineer immediately.
6. Maintain proper ventilation
Check that your boiler is adequately ventilated, and if it’s situated in a cupboard, make sure the area is free of clutter. Also, check that all external vents are clear.
7. Check the pilot light
The pilot light in your boiler should have a strong blue flame, if the flame is yellow or smoky you should report the problem to an engineer immediately.
8. Flush your boiler
It’s a good idea to flush your boiler with clean water once a year. You may also want to consider using a de-scaler. Also check your oil levels regularly, because if you run out of oil, your system may suck stagnant oil and sediments from the bottom of the tank into the pipes, which can damage your boiler.
9. Always have a copy of the boiler manual
Keep a copy of your boiler manual handy for troubleshooting tips. If you do not have a copy of your manual, you can usually download or print one from the company’s website.
10. Install a carbon monoxide detector
Make sure that you have a carbon monoxide detector installed in the same room as your boiler and test it at least once a month.
