What does a boiler service include? (Checklist)

Quick summary

A boiler service is a scheduled inspection and tune-up by a qualified engineer. Most domestic services take around 45–60 minutes depending on access and condition. You should always receive a written record of what was checked.

Boiler service checklist (what a good service should cover)

1) Safety-first visual checks

• ✓Visual inspection of boiler casing, pipework, and immediate area for leaks, staining, overheating marks, or corrosion.
• ✓Ventilation & clearances checked (especially if installed in a cupboard) so the boiler can operate safely.
• ✓Flue route check (visible sections) to ensure it looks secure, unobstructed and correctly terminated.

2) Internal inspection & basic cleaning (where applicable)

• ✓Case seal / integrity inspected before opening and resealed correctly after.
• ✓Key components inspected for wear/heat damage (e.g., burner area, ignition/flame sensing components where accessible).
• ✓Light cleaning of accessible parts if needed (dust/debris build-up that can affect safe operation).

3) Combustion & performance testing

• ✓Operational checks: boiler fires correctly, responds to heating/hot water demand, and shuts down properly.
• ✓Gas tightness / soundness checks where required as part of safe operation.
• ✓Flue gas analysis to confirm combustion is within safe/expected parameters for the appliance.

4) System-side checks (quick but important)

• ✓Pressure check and a quick assessment if it’s repeatedly dropping (signs of leaks/expansion vessel issues).
• ✓Controls check: programmer/thermostat call, basic responsiveness, and obvious wiring/setting issues.
• ✓Condensate line checked visually on condensing boilers (secure, draining correctly, no obvious blockages).

5) Paperwork you should receive

• ✓Service record (digital or paper): what was checked, test results (where recorded), and any advisories.
• ✓Clear next steps if anything is borderline (e.g., “monitor pressure”, “recommend filter clean”, “repair quoted”).

A simple way to judge the quality A service should include testing + documentation. If you don’t get a written record or there’s no combustion/flue testing, it’s fair to ask what checks were actually completed.

What’s usually NOT included in a standard service

• ✓Major repairs / parts (PCBs, fans, pumps, valves) — these are typically quoted separately if needed.
• ✓Full system cleaning (powerflush) — that’s a separate job if sludge/flow issues are found.
• ✓Extensive fault-finding if you’ve booked a service but the boiler is actively failing (that becomes a repair diagnosis).

How to prepare (so the service stays quick and clean)

• ✓Clear access: remove items in front of the boiler/cupboard.
• ✓Have details ready: boiler make/model + any symptoms (pressure dropping, noises, lockouts).
• ✓Tell the engineer about past issues: repeated faults help target checks quickly.

FAQs

Can I service my boiler myself?

You can do simple homeowner checks (like keeping the area clear and watching pressure), but internal servicing and gas work must be done by a qualified professional.

Does a boiler service keep my warranty valid?

Most manufacturers expect annual servicing and a service record. Keep your paperwork/logbook updated each year.

Is this checklist the same for combi and system boilers?

The core safety and combustion checks are similar, but some systems have extra components (cylinders, valves, etc.) that may also be checked depending on the job booked.