What happens to be a boiler service and what does it involve?
The boiler servicing procedure is very different for most companies.
For a few, 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 is not a boiler service, it's just a combustion check and nothing else.
New boiler installation Middlesbrough servicing procedure that I take advantage of goes similar to this.
Arrive at the house at the arranged time, if running late, contact the client to help keep informed, nothing worse than looking forward to someone to arrive.
Once at the house, introduce yourself, show the client the Gas Safe ID card, explain how exactly to check the card details.
This can reassure your client you are a specialist registered gas safe engineer.
Now the card is out of the way, politely ask the client to show you the boiler location.
Ask if they have observed any issues with the boiler recently, has anything changed on the heating system, has the system been drained, any radiators replaced.
This will give you an idea of what things to look out for.
Now The boiler Servicing
First, we perform a visual inspection of the boiler.
1 Be sure the boiler is installed correctly, also to current regulations.
2 Is the flue connected to the boiler the way in which and safe for use?
3 Look for any damage to the boiler which could impair its operation.
4 Make sure that if ventilation is required it's the correct size.
5 Check 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 you can 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 sure everything conforms to current gas regulations.
Does the Emergency Control Valve have a handle fitted, therefore the gas could 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 may be the correct size.
Check the gas for leakage
Perform a let by test to establish the emergency control valve isn't letting gas through when powered down.
Now perform the gas tightness test over 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 can be checked, they normally store around 10 faults, this will tell you what has been happening and what to look out for.
Check the gas operating and working pressures, making certain they are within the limits.
Isolate the power supply to the boiler, while at exactly the same time be sure the fuse fitted is of the right size.
With regards to the make and model, follow the boiler servicing procedure as per instructions in the boiler manual.
If you don't get access to the boiler manual you can download a copy from the internet, just search for the make and model you will need, and download it.
Turn the boiler power back on, recheck both hot water and heating are still working.
Now we move ahead to the gas rate, this needs to be checked to make certain the boiler is getting enough gas. There are plenty of apps available to help you carry out a gas rate.
We now perform another gas tightness test at the meter to ensure there are no gas leaks.
Boiler Servicing procedure Certificate
Given that the boiler service has been completed, remove all tools and any dust sheets from the site, making sure the working area round the boiler has been left clean and tidy.
Enter all the details 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's required to bring it up to regulation standards.
Finally, hand over all the paperwork to your client including the invoice.
Ask the client if they're pleased with your service, and would they be so kind to leave an assessment for you.
Every company has their very own way of carrying out a boiler service, the above is our boiler servicing procedure.