What actually is a boiler service and what does it involve?
The boiler servicing procedure is very different for many companies.
For some, no names, it's just, inserting the flue gas analyser probe in to the flue, printing off the readings.
If they're within the limits, that's the boiler serviced.
If you ask me, a boiler installer, that's not a boiler service, it's just a combustion check and nothing else.
The boiler servicing procedure that I use goes a little like this.
Arrive at the house at the arranged time, if running late, contact your client to keep informed, nothing worse than waiting for someone to arrive.
Once at the property, introduce yourself, show the client the Gas Safe ID card, explain how to check the card details.
This can reassure your client you are a specialist registered gas safe engineer.
Now the card is out of just how, politely ask your client showing you the boiler location.
Ask if they have experienced any problems with the boiler recently, has anything changed on the heat, gets the system been drained, any radiators replaced.
This will give you an idea of what to look out for.
Now The boiler Servicing
First, we carry out a visual inspection of the boiler.
1 Check that the boiler is installed correctly, and to current regulations.
2 Is the flue connected to the boiler the way in which and safe for use?
3 Look for any harm to the boiler that may impair its operation.
4 Make sure that if ventilation is required it is the correct size.
5 Look for any signs of water leakage within the boiler.
6 Search for any former repairs.
7 Make certain the boiler is right, for how big is the property.
8 Run the boiler in both heating and hot water modes before commencing the service.
By running the boiler, this proves that both hot water and heating were both working at the time of the service.
Some scrupulous customers try to say the boiler was working before you carried out the service, when in fact is was not.
By carrying out this check it is possible to confirm if the boiler was working or not.
Now onto Checking The Gas Meter
Check over the located area of the gas meter, carry out a risk assessment, making certain everything conforms to current gas regulations.
Does the Emergency Control Valve have a handle fitted, therefore the gas can be isolated and made safe should a predicament occur?
Check the Protective equipotential earth bonding is connected to the outlet side of the gas meter and is the correct size.
Check the gas for leakage
Perform a let by test to determine the emergency control valve isn't letting gas through when switched off.
Now perform the gas tightness test on the prescribed times, once complete, print off the results and attach to the boiler service certificate.
The Boiler
Some makes of boiler have a fault memory that could be checked, they normally store up to 10 faults, this can let you know what has been happening and what things to look out for.
Check the gas operating and working pressures, making sure they're within the limits.
Isolate the energy supply to the boiler, while at the same time check that the fuse fitted is of the correct size.
Based on the make and model, follow the boiler servicing procedure according to instructions in the boiler manual.
If you don't get access to the boiler manual you can download a copy from the web, just search for the make and model you need, and download it.
Turn the boiler power back on, recheck both hot water and heating remain working.
Now we move on to the gas rate, this must be checked to make certain the boiler is getting enough gas. There are various apps available to assist you to carry out a gas rate.
https://www.scsplumbingandheating.co.uk/ carry out another gas tightness test at the meter to ensure you can find no gas leaks.
Boiler Servicing procedure Certificate
Given that the boiler service has been completed, remove all tools and any dust sheets from the website, making certain the working area around the boiler has been left clean and tidy.
Enter everything of the boiler service on the certificate.
If needed, attach any warning notices to the boiler, complete a warning notice certificate and inform your client of your findings.
Explain why the boiler has failed, and what is required to bring it around regulation standards.
Finally, hand over all of the paperwork to the client including the invoice.
Ask the client if they're happy with your service, and would they be so kind to leave a review for you.
Every company has their own way of carrying out a boiler service, the aforementioned is our boiler servicing procedure.