Oil Boiler Servicing: What Every Homeowner Needs to Know
Looking for an oil boiler service near you?
When it comes to heating rural homes or off-grid properties, oil fired boilers remain one of the most reliable and efficient systems available. But unlike mains gas, heating oil systems come with their own set of responsibilities and risks. That’s why having a regular oil boiler service isn’t just a nice-to-have, it’s essential.
If you’ve ever typed “oil boiler service near me” into Google and felt unsure who to trust, this guide will help. We’ll walk you through what’s involved in an oil boiler service, how often it should be done, what it typically costs, and most importantly, how it protects your home and family.
What is an Oil Boiler Service?
An oil boiler service is a comprehensive inspection and maintenance process carried out by a qualified engineer. For homes using heating oil, it’s the single most important piece of annual boiler servicing you’ll book all year.
During the service, your engineer will check the following:
- The burner and combustion chamber
- The heat exchanger
- Flue and ventilation
- Oil supply lines and filters
- The operation of thermostats and safety devices
- The overall condition of the boiler, including signs of leaks or corrosion
If you have an external oil tank, it may also be visually checked for cracks, corrosion, or issues with pipework. These tanks can deteriorate over time, so it’s vital they’re kept in good shape to prevent costly and environmentally damaging leaks.
Why Regular Servicing Matters
With oil fired boilers, regular servicing does more than just keep things ticking over. It helps prevent breakdowns, keeps your heating system efficient, and reduces your risk of dangerous faults like carbon monoxide leaks.
Carbon monoxide is odourless and invisible, which makes it all the more important to make sure your system is operating correctly. An annual check by an OFTEC registered engineer ensures that your boiler is burning fuel safely and cleanly.
You’ll also improve the efficiency of your heating system. An unserviced oil boiler can start to burn more fuel than necessary, meaning you get through your heating oil more quickly and your bills begin to creep up. A clean, well-maintained boiler saves energy, saves money, and runs longer.
How Often Should You Have Your Oil Boiler Serviced?
In short: at least once every 12 months.
Annual boiler servicing is recommended by manufacturers, insurers, and OFTEC. In fact, some boiler warranties are only valid if you can show that the appliance has been serviced annually by a qualified engineer.
If your oil tank is older or you’re using a system that’s not been regularly maintained, you might even consider twice-yearly checks, especially if the system is used heavily.
How Much Does an Oil Boiler Service Cost?
This depends on where you are in the country and the type of system you have, but you can typically expect to pay between £100 and £150 for a standard service. This covers the engineer’s time, expertise, and the cleaning and testing of your boiler.
Repairs or replacement parts will incur additional charges, but the aim of a service is to prevent those emergencies from happening in the first place. It's a case of a small cost now saving a much larger one later.
Many heating companies (including KD Jones Heating Engineers) offer service plans or loyalty schemes that can help spread the cost. These usually include your annual service, discounts on repairs, and priority call-outs in winter.
Why Choose an OFTEC Registered Engineer?
OFTEC stands for the Oil Firing Technical Association, and it’s the recognised body for oil heating technicians in the UK. Only engineers on the OFTEC register are certified to work safely and legally on oil fired boilers and oil tanks.
When searching for an oil boiler service near you, always check for the OFTEC mark. It’s your assurance of competence, safety, and compliance with current regulations.
At KD Jones Heating Engineers, all our oil boiler servicing is carried out by experienced, OFTEC registered engineers who understand the specifics of heating oil systems. Whether you’re in Redhill or elsewhere in Surrey, we offer fast response times and a quality of service that gives you true peace of mind.
Signs Your Oil Boiler Might Need Servicing Sooner
Even if your annual service isn’t due, there are some warning signs to watch for:
- Your boiler is noisier than usual
- You notice soot or smoke marks around the appliance
- The heating seems less effective or takes longer to warm up
- Your oil usage has suddenly increased
- There’s an unusual smell when the boiler is running
These are signs that your boiler may need urgent attention. Don’t wait until it breaks down completely.
Final Thoughts
Your oil boiler works hard throughout the year, especially during the colder months. Just like a car, it needs regular maintenance to stay safe, efficient, and reliable. Booking an oil boiler service with a qualified engineer gives you peace of mind, helps you save money, and extends the life of your system.
And if you’re looking for an oil boiler service near you in the Surrey area, KD Jones Heating Engineers is here to help. We offer professional, reliable servicing backed by years of experience, OFTEC certification, and a reputation built on trust.
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Oil Boiler Servicing FAQs
Do I need to service my oil boiler every year?
Yes! Annual servicing is essential to ensure safety, efficiency, and warranty compliance.
How long does an oil boiler service take?
Typically around 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on the condition of your system.
What’s included in the service?
Cleaning of key components, safety checks, performance testing, and inspection of your oil tank and pipework.
Is it dangerous to skip a service?
Yes. Skipping a service increases the risk of carbon monoxide leaks and system failures.
Can you service oil boilers outside of Redhill?
Absolutely. We cover homes and businesses across Surrey and surrounding areas.
Do you offer plans to help spread the cost?
Yes. Our loyalty scheme includes your annual service, a discount on future work, and priority bookings.