Many homeowners are skipping their annual boiler service due to rising costs, but this could lead to higher energy bills and potential safety risks in the long run.

According to heating experts at WarmZilla, a boiler can lose between 5–15% of its efficiency each year if not properly maintained. Over time, this means higher gas consumption and increased heating costs. Some estimates suggest an inefficient boiler could add between £100 and £300 to annual energy bills.

Why do boilers need servicing?

A boiler service is essentially a routine check-up to ensure everything is working correctly. Engineers inspect key components, such as the heat exchanger, burner, and flue, to identify any wear, blockages, or faults. They also check for potential gas leaks and carbon monoxide risks, which can be dangerous if left unnoticed.

Matthew Powell, founder of WarmZilla, explains that regular servicing can also help prevent unexpected breakdowns, which often result in expensive repair bills. “We understand why fewer residents are booking a boiler service as we know that times are hard, but we think it’s a relatively small amount for the added efficiency and peace of mind provided in return,” he says.

Many manufacturers also require an annual service to keep a boiler’s warranty valid — without it, homeowners could be responsible for the full cost of any repairs.

The cost vs. the savings

The price of a standard gas boiler service varies but typically falls between £80 and £120. WarmZilla offers one-off servicing for £108

as well as rolling maintenance plans that spread the cost across the year. While this may seem like an additional expense, the potential savings in efficiency and avoided repairs could outweigh the upfront cost.

A recent survey by British Gas found that around 72% of homeowners get their boiler serviced annually, leaving nearly 28% potentially at risk of reduced efficiency or faults. WarmZilla also saw a 25% drop in boiler service bookings this year, suggesting that many are delaying maintenance due to cost concerns.

However, skipping an annual service could prove far more costly in the long run. Even minor issues — such as worn seals or pressure faults — can typically be fixed for £50–£200 if caught early during a routine service. Left unchecked, small problems can develop into major faults, such as a broken heat exchanger or pump, which can cost anywhere from £400 to £1,500 to repair. In some cases, a neglected boiler may need replacing entirely, with installation costs ranging from £2,000 to £4,000.

The impact of skipping a service

Many homeowners assume that if a boiler is running without obvious issues, it doesn’t need attention. However, small problems can develop gradually and go unnoticed until they cause a breakdown. Blocked flues, pressure faults, or worn-out seals can all lead to inefficiency, increased gas use, or, in rare cases, dangerous gas leaks.

Skipping a service also increases the risk of sudden failures, often at the worst time—typically during colder months when the heating is in regular use. Emergency call-outs tend to be more expensive than a routine service.

What happens during a boiler service?

During a service, a Gas Safe-registered engineer will carry out checks such as:

• Inspecting internal components for wear and tear
• Testing gas pressure and combustion levels
• Checking for leaks, blockages, or corrosion
• Cleaning essential parts like the heat exchanger and burner
• Ensuring the boiler meets safety regulations

These steps help to keep the system running efficiently and reduce the risk of breakdowns.

Is an annual boiler service worth it?

For those weighing up the cost, a service acts as a preventative measure. While skipping it may save money in the short term, the long-term risks include higher energy bills, expensive repairs, and potential safety concerns.

Understanding what a service involves and how it benefits both efficiency and safety can help homeowners make an informed decision. If in doubt, checking a boiler’s warranty and energy consumption can provide a clearer picture of whether maintenance is overdue.

You might also like…