Servicing condensing and non-condensing boilers - what's involved?

A standard service should take between 60 to 90 minutes to complete and should incorporate the following points:

1. Firstly a soundness test and let-by test on the installation should be carried out to ensure there are no gas leaks on the pipework or appliances before commencement of service.
2. The engineer should then ensure the appliance installation meets all manufacturer's instructions and any other regulations or standards that are applicable.
3. The following should be checked:
• operation of all customer controls e.g. cylinder thermostats, programmers, room thermostats etc;
• ignition, flame picture and the stability of the flame;
• all safety devices on the boiler are operating correctly;
• burner pressures (non-condensing) or inlet pressure (condensing boilers) and gas rate are as per manufacturer's instructions;
• flue system through its entire length making sure the flue is secure, that there is no visible damage, that it is installed to regulations, also that the flue terminates correctly and has a terminal guard fitted (if applicable).
4. Remove burner for inspection and cleaning. This is usually only required on non-condensing boilers. Cleaning of the burner on condensing boilers is only required if the CO/CO2 settings cannot be adjusted to meet manufacturer's instructions unless manufacturer's instructions state otherwise. A flue analyser must be used to determine this.
5. Remove fan for inspection and cleaning. This is only usually required for non-condensing boilers. Removal of the fan assembly in condensing boilers is only required if the CO/CO2 settings cannot be achieved
6. Inspect the heat exchanger for signs of debris, corrosion and damage. Using specialist brushes clean the heat exchanger. This is usually only required on non-condensing boilers. Cleaning of the heat exchanger on condensing boilers is only required if manufacter's CO/CO2 setting cannot be achieved.
7. Remove condensate trap and clean thoroughly ensuring all debris is removed, that condensate pipework is clear from any blockages and is installed to manufacturer's instructions (condensing boilers only).
8. Your engineer should then clean inside the boiler removing any debris inside the burner chamber and check all case seals for damage, replacing if necessary. The boiler can then be re-assembled and re-tested for soundness ensuring again that no leaks are present.
9. Finally, your engineer should carry out a combustion test with a flue analyser to ensure your appliance is running safely and at the optimum efficiency.
10. If any defects are found or if any further work may be required this should be notified to the customer. At ADR Services (Midlands) Ltd we provide you with a thorough report about your appliances - see our Safety and Efficiency Report for details.