How Much Does a Boiler Service Cost in Leeds?
Let’s start with an important point:
There are different types of boiler services, and not all companies carry them out to the same standard.
Some offer only basic checks, while others provide a more thorough inspection and maintenance process. In this blog, we’ll explain what a manufacturer-recommended boiler service should include — and how long it really takes when done properly.
These steps aren’t always covered by every engineer or company, so it’s useful to know what to expect.
A proper boiler service typically takes at least 45–60 minutes. If it’s done in 20–30 minutes, it’s more likely you’ve only had a basic safety check or a tick-box visit for warranty cover — not a full service.
Below, we’ll break down what a proper boiler service should include — based on what actually happens in the real world, with realistic time estimates — and what kind of price you should expect to pay here in Leeds.
See It for Yourself: What a Proper Boiler Service Looks Like
Two Types of Boiler Service
There are two types of boiler services most engineers will offer:
Standard Service – The typical annual service, including all key safety and efficiency checks.
Full (Strip-Down) Service – A deeper service, usually every 4–5 years depending on boiler type and manufacturer’s recommendations (e.g. Worcester Bosch fan pressure test, etc.).
What Gets Done in a Standard Boiler Service?
| Task | Time (mins) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tightness test | 4 | 1 min stabilisation + 1 min let-by + 2 min final test. |
| Visual checks | 1–3 | Boiler, flue, pipework, casing, internal components. Longer if boxed. |
| Ventilation check | 1 | Quick but essential. |
| Gas consumption test | 3–4 | Includes high flame test; more if boiler upstairs or meter outside. |
| Working pressure test | 1+ | Done at boiler and meter; may need to run other appliances. |
| Flue flow & gas analysis | 2 | Low and high flame. |
| Clean filter and condensate | 2 | May take longer if stuck; water check done at same time. |
| Water quality check | 1 | Often done during filter clean. |
| Controls & safety checks | 6 | Lockout test, re-test, and repeat tightness test. |
| Re-tightness test | 4 | After shutdown. Must be done. |
| Radiator check & bleed | 2–5 | Removes air. Not all do it — we always do. |
| Inhibitor / corrosion check | — | Usually done while bleeding or cleaning. |
| CO & smoke alarm test | 0.5 | Quick test. |
| Expansion vessel check | 3 | Requires isolating and draining boiler. |
| Paperwork & service record | 2–3 | Record readings, notes, customer info. |
| Customer advice / chat | 2-5 | Check-in, tips, advice. |
| Set up & pack down | 2-5 | Get tools in and tidy up. |
✅ Total time: 40–60 minutes
Assuming:
No access issues
No stuck valves or filters
Small-to-average radiator count
No component faults or re-tests
If someone completes your service in under 30 minutes, it’s worth asking what was actually done — it may have been a basic check, not a full service.
What’s Included in a Full Strip-Down Boiler Service?
A full strip-down service includes everything listed above, plus:
Removing and cleaning the heat exchanger
Stripping and inspecting the burner
Replacing spark and ionisation electrodes
Cleaning internal seals and checking gaskets
Reassembling and fully re-testing
This typically adds another 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on the boiler’s design, access, and condition. It’s recommended every 4–5 years, depending on manufacturer guidance — or sooner if test readings show build-up. Deep servicing can help maintain efficiency and extend the boiler’s life, especially on older models.
So, How Much Does a Boiler Service Cost in Leeds?
You’re paying for an experienced engineer’s time, knowledge, and care.
Typical prices in Leeds:
Standard boiler service: £70–£90 (Takes around 1 hour)
Full strip-down service: £100–£150 (Takes 2 to 2.5 hours) + parts
(Service kit cost varies by brand and model — this can be checked beforehand if you let the engineer know the details, including the GC number.)
You might find cheaper offers, but be cautious — a 20-30 minute visit rarely includes most of what’s listed above.
Do I Have to Service My Boiler Every Year?
Yes — especially while it’s under warranty.
Missing even one annual service can void your manufacturer’s warranty — and that means no cover if something goes wrong.
What About After the Warranty?
Even once your warranty has expired, it’s still important to service your boiler annually. Why?
Valves can seize — especially isolation valves that haven’t moved in years.
Expansion vessel valves may leak if they’ve never been tested.
Expansion vessels lose pressure over time. If not recharged, the PRV may open and not reseal.
Blocked condensate traps are common in neglected boilers — especially cheaper models.
Heat exchangers can build up calcite and acidic water — causing early internal corrosion or leaks.
What If I Miss a Year?
If you skip a service one year, it’s not the end of the world — just don’t make it a habit.
Some boilers are more sensitive than others. Delay it too long, and minor issues can turn into bigger problems or costly repairs.
But remember: if your boiler is still under warranty, annual servicing is a must.
Final Reminder: Why a Proper Service Matters
When a boiler hasn’t been serviced properly for years, it’s common for parts to fail as soon as they’re touched.
We see it all the time — valves that won’t close, expansion vessel valves that start leaking, PRVs that blow and won’t reseal.
These failures often happen because components were never moved, tested, or operated.
Sometimes for years.
A proper boiler service, done by someone who takes the time to do it right, helps prevent these issues and keeps your system reliable and efficient.
Want to Know Why Boilers Often Break Down When You Turn the Heating Back On?
We’ve written a full blog explaining why this happens every year — and more importantly, what you can do to prevent it.
👉 Read: Why Boilers Break Down When You Turn the Heating Back On
Are you a landlord? You might also need a gas safety certificate (CP12). Read our full guide covering what it includes in a safety check costs, and legal requirements.
Best regards,
Attila from A Tech Installs
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