In the United Kingdom, servicing a boiler at least once a year is recommended for both gas and oil models. Neglecting this increases the likelihood of faults, results in potentially higher energy costs and may void warranty coverage.
Boilers also become less efficient over time. This means using one for its full theoretical design life of 10 years can potentially cost more in the long-run – particularly if it’s left without regular servicing and maintenance.
With winter quickly approaching, JustServicesGroup.com has spoken to 2,000 UK adults who currently own or rent a property. Their aim was to explore whether living expenses, coupled with unusually high energy prices (despite the 7% reduction in the Price Cap), was hindering people from essential boiler maintenance or replacements.
The research revealed a significant impact on London residents. According to the data, one in two (90%) London residents are delaying boiler repair, servicing, or replacement due to financial constraints caused by high living costs and unforeseen expenditures.
This trend was less prevalent across the UK, where nearly half of the population (46%) are avoiding boiler management as they cannot afford the essential maintenance or replacement.
Behind the capital city was the West Midlands – which includes Birmingham, the UK’s second most populous city – with two thirds (66%) putting off replacements. However, this was still 24% less people than in London, where the high living costs seem to be leading people to cut corners.
JustServicesGroup.com research showed that only 9% of Londoners have the recommended ‘A’ boiler rating with 90% and above efficiency. According to the data, the majority (41%) of the capital’s residents have boilers with D – G ratings, which are less efficient, costlier to operate, and at a higher risk of failure. It also highlights that home owners should not be avoiding essential maintenance.
Co-founder of JustServicesGroup.com Chris Burls said: “Energy prices and the cost of living is impacting everyone currently, but it is important to emphasize that putting off essential boiler repairs is not where people should be thrifty. Not only will it be more costly in the long run – on a completely new boiler or high energy bills – it can be extremely dangerous for families to live somewhere with a faulty boiler.

“It is important that your boiler is serviced once a year and that it is fixed and fitted by a qualified boiler specialist so it is safe and performing at full capacity.”

Although many people are choosing to avoid boiler replacement, a new boiler will save money in the long run. A 20+ year old boiler will be extremely inefficient so upgrading to a more modern model could likely save around £340 per year (if set up correctly by a qualified engineer).