Faults with a boiler can add huge expenses to already high energy bills.
The price cap is predicted to increase by a further 40% to a whopping £2,800 by October this year. With that in mind, households will be looking for ways to keep prices as low as possible.
One way to cut costs is to check your boiler for any faults. Experts at Boiler Central suggest that faulty boilers could increase energy bills even further, meaning you’ll be forking out even more during the cost of living crisis.
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A boiler should be serviced every 12 months and while for homeowners it is their responsibility, for tenants, the landlord is fully responsible by UK law. A spokesperson from the company said: “Regular boiler service can prevent issues that are not only expensive but potentially hazardous to a household. UK law is clear about who is responsible for maintaining and servicing boilers in rental properties.
“The law stipulates that landlords or letting agencies must maintain boilers (and other gas appliances) in rented properties, do a yearly gas safety check on all gas appliances, and give a copy of the most up-to-date certificate to new and existing tenants.” The law doesn’t give landlords the right to force an entry if a tenant is unwilling to allow access to the boiler, the landlord should give repeated notice to the tenant in writing and educate them on the need for an annual gas safety check and regular boiler service.
Six crucial signs your boiler needs to be serviced
- Your energy bills are notably higher
- There is no hot water, or the water is not sufficiently heated
- Heating the water takes longer than usual
- The boiler is leaking
- The boiler makes an unusual noise.
- Foul smells coming from the boiler (this could be gas leaks, such as carbon monoxide)
Things you can do to keep your boiler functioning properly
Turn on the heating - Experts advise actually turning on the heating a few times during the warmer months to ensure the appliance is working as it should, and to avoid being faced with problems when autumn approaches.
Make sure vents aren’t blocked - Ventilation is another essential part of keeping your boiler working safely, as it needs adequate airflow. Make sure that the vents are not covered or blocked by household items, even if the boiler is installed in a cupboard.
Bleed the radiators – The experts at Boiler Central also suggest bleeding your boiler’s radiators once a year to keep them running as they should. While this isn’t necessarily a difficult process, not everyone knows how to do this. If you’re confused, it is best to invite a boiler specialist to help you out.
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