How long does a boiler service take?

A standard annual service takes roughly 30 to 45 minutes. If the engineer is there longer it usually means they have found something worth looking at properly, which is the point of the visit.

What is happening in that time

The engineer will run the boiler and check how it is firing, take combustion readings at the flue, inspect the heat exchanger and burner, check seals and connections for corrosion or leaks, test the safety devices and check the system pressure.

Then the paperwork — a written record of what was tested and anything that needs watching.

What to have ready

• Clear access to the boiler, including anything stored in front of it
• The service record or warranty paperwork if you have it
• Any previous engineer's notes

If the boiler is in a loft or a cupboard behind boxes, clearing it beforehand saves time you are otherwise paying for.

A ten-minute 'service' is not one

If someone is in and out in ten minutes without taking a combustion reading or leaving paperwork, that is not a service, whatever the invoice says. It is worth knowing the difference — particularly if you are relying on that record for a warranty claim later.