The winter's snow already seems a distant memory, so is it really worth spending money on a boiler maintenance service plan?
It's often only when our gas or oil boiler starts making alarming noises or stops working altogether that many of us think about it.
And typically, it stops at the most inconvenient moment with the hot water running out while we're covered in shampoo suds and the heating packing up when it's absolutely freezing outside.
Then we discover it's a four day wait for a gas engineer who states it needs unobtainable parts before handing us a bill for several hundred pounds.
Having our boiler serviced annually is one of those dull grown-up things many of us put off dealing with.
We know it's something we should do, but it's only when something goes wrong that we wish we were organised.
But Oliver Murphy, Retail Operations Manager at East Anglian largest heating company Gasway says a Central Heating maintenance cover plan, which includes an annual service saves a lot of headaches.
'A service will ensure your gas or oil boiler is safe and that it is working effectively and efficiently,' he says.
'A regular service is very important,' he said, pointing out that a boiler service would check that gas was not escaping or being wasted and spot potential problems before they occur.
A poorly maintained gas or oil boiler can lead to blockages in the heating system – which can produce very costly repairs.
'A service means it is stripped down and serviceable components are serviced.'
A reputable central heating maintenance cover plan covers your boiler for an annual service, and replacement parts, said Oliver.
This can save homeowners, and landlords, hundreds of pounds in potential repair costs, and give peace of mind that your boiler should continue working effectively and efficiently.
'An annual service does the work needed to keep a boiler running properly,' said Oliver.
Modern boilers should last 10 to 15 years, and regular maintenance will keep the boiler working correctly during its life, said Oliver.
'The engineer will be able to see, during the service, if it is in good condition and if any work needs to be done,' he added.
Both old and newer gas boilers – including LPG gas – can be covered with an maintenance plan.
A central heating cover plan offers property breakdown visits and a guaranteed same day service, if calls are made before 12 noon. It also offers unlimited call outs, a free annual service and safety check and a free landlord certificate if required.
The cover plan includes all parts in the boiler casing that may be needed and money off a new boiler if the covered boiler is beyond repair, and if it's a central heating cover plan, the complete heating system is covered. Electrical, gas supply pipework and pests can also be added for your peace of mind
Oliver said many householders suffered with boiler problems over the winter, many of which could have been prevented if their boiler had been serviced.
'Get a cover plan in place now, have the free annual service and avoid those winter problems,' says Oliver, adding that the average cost of a boiler repair, including parts was £350.
'With a cover plan you are saving yourself those unexpected repair costs,' he added.
Thanks to Oliver Murphy of Gasway for help compiling this advice. Gasway is East Anglia's largest heating company. It specialises in the installation and servicing of all gas appliances, boilers and central heating systems for domestic property owners and landlords. Call 01603 309644 or visit www.gasway.co.uk
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