Boiler Safety Risk Calculator
Check the symptoms below to see if your boiler has potential safety risks. Based on your answers, we'll calculate your risk level and provide recommendations.
Your Safety Risk Assessment
When your boiler starts making strange noises or isn’t heating the house like it used to, you might wonder: what's included in a boiler service? It’s not just a quick check-up. A proper boiler service is a full health assessment that keeps your home warm, safe, and efficient - especially in places like Auckland where winters can sneak up fast.
Why a Boiler Service Matters
Boilers aren’t like your car. You don’t see the internal parts, so you can’t tell if something’s worn out until it breaks down. A service every year isn’t optional - it’s essential. In New Zealand, over 60% of homes rely on gas or oil boilers for heating. And according to Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA) data, poorly maintained boilers use up to 20% more fuel than well-serviced ones. That’s extra money down the drain - and more emissions into the air.
But it’s not just about cost. A faulty boiler can leak carbon monoxide - a silent, deadly gas. Every year in New Zealand, emergency services respond to dozens of cases linked to poorly serviced boilers. A professional service catches these risks before they become emergencies.
What Technicians Check During a Boiler Service
A full boiler service takes about 60 to 90 minutes. It’s not just a quick wipe-down. Here’s what actually happens:
- Visual inspection - The technician checks for rust, leaks, corrosion, or damage on the boiler casing, pipes, and flue. Even small cracks can lead to gas leaks or water damage.
- Gas pressure test - Too high or too low pressure affects efficiency and safety. They’ll measure it against the manufacturer’s specs and adjust if needed.
- Flue inspection - The flue carries exhaust gases out of your home. If it’s blocked or damaged, toxic fumes can build up inside. They’ll use a camera probe to check for obstructions or cracks.
- Combustion analysis - This is critical. They hook up a gas analyzer to measure how efficiently the boiler is burning fuel. If the air-to-fuel ratio is off, it’s not just wasting energy - it’s producing dangerous carbon monoxide.
- Heat exchanger check - This is the heart of the boiler. If it’s cracked or scaled with limescale, it can overheat and fail. They’ll look for signs of corrosion or blockage.
- Pump and valve inspection - The circulation pump moves hot water through your radiators. If it’s noisy or stuck, your heating won’t work evenly. Valves are checked for proper opening and closing.
- Pressure system check - Most modern boilers run at 1.2 to 1.5 bar. If pressure is too low, they’ll top it up. If it keeps dropping, they’ll find the leak.
- Electrical component test - Thermostats, timers, and safety switches are tested to make sure they’re working. A faulty thermostat can cause the boiler to run non-stop or not turn on at all.
- Cleaning - Dust, debris, and soot build up inside the burner and combustion chamber. They’ll clean these parts to restore efficiency and reduce the risk of fire.
- Leak test - They’ll check all joints, seals, and connections for water or gas leaks. Even a slow drip can cause serious damage over time.
What’s Not Included (And Why)
A standard boiler service doesn’t fix broken parts. If your boiler is leaking badly, making loud banging noises, or won’t ignite, that’s a repair - not a service. A service is preventative. It’s like getting your car’s oil changed before the engine seizes.
Some companies try to upsell extras during a service. Watch out for:
- Adding a new thermostat - unless yours is outdated or malfunctioning
- Replacing the boiler - if it’s under 10 years old and still working
- Installing a smart control system - nice, but not necessary for safety
A good technician will tell you what’s broken, what’s worn, and what’s fine. They won’t pressure you into spending more than needed.
How Often Should You Get a Service?
Once a year. That’s the rule. Even if your boiler seems fine, annual servicing is required by most manufacturers to keep the warranty valid. If you skip it, you could void your warranty and end up paying thousands for a replacement.
Best time to schedule? Late summer or early autumn. That way, if something’s wrong, it gets fixed before the cold hits. You won’t be stuck without heat in July.
What to Expect After the Service
At the end of the service, you should get a service certificate. This isn’t just a receipt - it’s proof you’ve met safety and warranty requirements. It includes:
- Date of service
- Boiler make and model
- Serial number
- Any issues found
- Actions taken
- Technician’s name and registration number
Keep this document. You’ll need it if you sell your home or make an insurance claim.
Signs You Need a Service - Even If It’s Not Due
You don’t have to wait for the annual date. Call a technician if you notice:
- Strange smells - like rotten eggs or burning dust
- Boiler cycling on and off too often
- One or more radiators staying cold
- Increased heating bills with no change in usage
- Yellow flame instead of blue (in gas boilers)
- Water pooling around the boiler
These aren’t normal. They’re warning signs.
Choosing the Right Technician
Not everyone who says they fix boilers is qualified. In New Zealand, gas work is regulated. Look for:
- A Gas Safe Register number (or equivalent NZ certification like a Licensed Gasfitter)
- Proof of insurance
- Reviews from local customers - especially in your area
- Clear pricing upfront - no hidden fees
Avoid door-to-door salespeople or companies that don’t list their registration. A reputable technician will happily show you their credentials.
What Happens If You Skip It?
Skipping a boiler service might seem harmless. But here’s what can happen:
- Your boiler fails in the middle of winter - and you’re stuck without heat
- Carbon monoxide builds up slowly - you might not notice until it’s too late
- Your energy bills climb as the boiler works harder
- You void your warranty - meaning you pay full price for a replacement
- Water leaks damage floors, walls, or ceilings
It’s not a gamble worth taking.
Final Thoughts
A boiler service isn’t a luxury. It’s part of home maintenance - like changing your smoke detector batteries or cleaning your gutters. It costs between $150 and $250 in New Zealand, depending on location and boiler type. That’s less than a tank of petrol - and it keeps your family safe.
If you’ve never had a service, don’t wait. Book one now. If you had one last year, mark next year’s date on your calendar. Your boiler, your wallet, and your peace of mind will thank you.
Is a boiler service the same as a boiler repair?
No. A boiler service is a preventative check-up to keep your system running safely and efficiently. A boiler repair fixes a problem that’s already broken - like a leak, a faulty pump, or a cracked heat exchanger. You need a service every year. You only need a repair if something goes wrong.
Can I service my own boiler?
No. In New Zealand, gas appliances must be serviced by a licensed gasfitter. Even if you’re handy, tampering with gas lines, pressure systems, or combustion chambers is dangerous and illegal. You risk carbon monoxide poisoning, fire, or voiding your warranty. Always hire a qualified professional.
How long does a boiler service take?
Most services take between 60 and 90 minutes. The time depends on the boiler’s age, type, and condition. Older boilers or ones with known issues may take longer. A good technician won’t rush - they’ll take the time to do it right.
Do electric boilers need servicing too?
Yes. Even though electric boilers don’t use gas, they still have pumps, valves, thermostats, and pressure systems that wear out. Annual servicing ensures they run efficiently and prevents unexpected breakdowns. The process is similar but without gas safety checks.
What’s the average cost of a boiler service in Auckland?
In Auckland, a standard boiler service typically costs between $180 and $240. Prices vary based on boiler brand, age, and whether it’s gas or electric. Some companies offer discounts if you book in spring or autumn. Avoid services priced under $120 - they’re likely cutting corners.
Will a boiler service fix a noisy boiler?
Sometimes. If the noise is caused by limescale buildup, air in the system, or a dirty pump, a service can fix it. But if the noise comes from a cracked heat exchanger or failing motor, that’s a repair - not something a service can fix. A technician will tell you the difference.
Do I need a service if my boiler is new?
Yes. Most manufacturers require an annual service to keep the warranty valid - even for brand-new boilers. Skipping it could mean you pay full price for a replacement if something fails. Plus, early servicing catches small issues before they become big problems.
Can a boiler service reduce my energy bills?
Absolutely. A clean, well-tuned boiler burns fuel more efficiently. According to EECA, a serviced boiler can cut heating costs by up to 20%. That’s hundreds of dollars a year. It also means less strain on the system, which extends its lifespan.
