Case Study: Boiler Service in Dorset

Boiler Services Bournemouth

Last week, a homeowner in Poole contacted me for his annual boiler service. I asked if there were any problems he had experienced that I should be privy to. He mentioned that it was taking much longer than usual to get hot water and after running a test, some radiators were not warming up a room sufficiently.  I assured him that I would be at his property within the hour to conduct the service and attend to any faults.

I got to the client’s home in 45 minutes despite some light traffic. I started by running the boiler to pinpoint any issues and the first thing that struck me was the noise being produced. It was not very loud and might have even gone unnoticed but it was an indicator of a common problem for boilers.

 I also opened up the boiler to check the fan air pressure and the gas pressure. The fan air pressure was quite low and this might have been the cause of the sub-optimal operation. I looked closely at the spark electrodes and realized they had oxidized thus cleaning them would not help much. The best option would be a replacement. When I looked at the heat exchanger, I noticed there was limescale buildup which is why the fan air pressure had dropped significantly. Boiler repairs in Dorset often entail sludge or limescale removal due to the hard water in the area. I connected the boiler to a power flush machine which helped clear the limescale from the primary heat exchanger.

The limescale in the plate heat exchanger was cleared using a chemical cleaning solution. After 3 hours, the entire process was complete and we fired up the boiler for a test. Not only had the “kettling” subsided, but adequate heat was coming from all the radiators in the property.

Everything you need to Know

How often should I have my boiler serviced

It’s recommended to have your boiler serviced once a year. Annual servicing keeps it running efficiently, helps maintain your manufacturer’s warranty, and ensures it’s safe to operate, particularly important before the winter months.

What are the signs my boiler needs repairing?

Common warning signs include no hot water or heating, unusual noises (banging, whistling, or gurgling), low pressure, leaks around the unit, error codes on the display, or the boiler repeatedly cutting out. If you notice any of these, contact us as soon as possible to avoid a full breakdown.

Is it safe to use my boiler if it's making a strange noise?

Strange noises can indicate issues such as limescale build-up, a failing pump, or trapped air in the system. It’s best not to ignore them. Switch the boiler off and call us. Our engineers can diagnose and fix the problem quickly.

How long does a boiler service take?

A standard boiler service typically takes between 45 minutes and 1 hour. Our engineer will inspect, clean, and test all key components and advise you of any concerns found during the visit.

What happens during a boiler service?

During a boiler service, our Gas Safe engineer will inspect all key components, check for leaks or corrosion, test the flue and combustion, clean internal parts, and verify that safety controls are working correctly. You will receive a report on the condition of your boiler at the end of the visit.

What are the signs my boiler needs repairing?

Common warning signs include no hot water or heating, unusual noises such as banging, whistling, or gurgling, low pressure, leaks around the unit, error codes on the display, or the boiler repeatedly cutting out. If you notice any of these, contact us as soon as possible to avoid a full breakdown.

 

Can you repair my boiler on the same visit as the diagnosis?

In many cases, yes. Our engineers carry a range of common spare parts and tools, meaning faults can often be diagnosed and resolved in a single visit. If a specific part needs to be ordered, we will let you know and arrange a follow-up as quickly as possible.

 

Will servicing my boiler reduce my energy bills?

Yes. A well-maintained boiler runs more efficiently, which means it uses less fuel to heat your home. Regular servicing can help reduce energy waste, lower your bills, and extend the overall lifespan of your system.

Get In Touch

If you need a boiler service or urgent repair in Bournemouth or Poole, our Gas Safe engineers are ready to help. Fill in the form below or call us directly to arrange a visit.

Two Senior Heating Services engineers standing in front of a dual boiler installation in Bournemouth
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