Boiler Safety Risk Calculator
Assess your boiler's safety risk based on key indicators from professional maintenance checks. This tool helps you identify potential hazards before they become emergencies.
When your boiler starts making strange noises or isn’t heating the house like it used to, you might think it’s broken. But often, it just needs a service. A boiler service isn’t a repair-it’s a routine health check. And in Brisbane’s cooler months, skipping it can leave you shivering in January. Most homeowners don’t know what actually happens during a boiler service, which is why so many end up with expensive breakdowns. Here’s exactly what’s included in a professional boiler service, so you know what you’re paying for and why it matters.
Visual Inspection of the Boiler and Surrounding Area
The engineer starts by looking at the whole system. Not just the boiler itself, but the pipes, vents, flue, and nearby walls. They check for signs of rust, leaks, damp patches, or black soot near the flue outlet. Soot means incomplete combustion-dangerous because it can lead to carbon monoxide buildup. In older homes, especially those with brick chimneys, they’ll inspect for cracks or blockages that could trap gases inside. If the boiler sits in a cupboard, they’ll make sure there’s enough ventilation. No air flow? That’s a red flag.
Checking the Gas Pressure and Flow
Gas pressure has to be just right. Too high, and the boiler runs too hot, wasting fuel and risking damage. Too low, and it struggles to ignite or keeps cutting out. A qualified technician uses a manometer to measure pressure at the inlet and outlet. For most modern gas boilers in Australia, the ideal pressure range is between 19-21 mbar at the inlet. They also check the gas flow rate to ensure the burner is getting the right amount of fuel. If your boiler’s gas pressure is off, it’s not just inefficient-it’s unsafe.
Testing the Flame and Combustion
What’s happening inside the burner matters more than you think. The engineer uses a combustion analyzer to measure the gases coming out of the flue: carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO2), and oxygen (O2). These numbers tell them if the fuel is burning cleanly. A healthy flame should be blue. Yellow or orange flames mean incomplete burning-and that’s a carbon monoxide risk. If the levels are outside safe limits, they’ll adjust the air-to-gas ratio or clean the burner. In 2024, Australian Gas Networks reported over 300 cases of carbon monoxide poisoning linked to poorly serviced boilers. This test alone can save lives.
Cleaning the Burner and Heat Exchanger
Dust, lint, and tiny particles from the air build up inside the boiler over time. They stick to the burner and the heat exchanger-the part that transfers heat from the flame to your water. A clogged heat exchanger forces the boiler to work harder, which wears it out faster and raises your bills. The technician removes the front panel, takes out the burner, and brushes off any debris. They might use a vacuum or compressed air. For the heat exchanger, they use a special brush or rod to clear out soot and scale. In homes with hard water, limescale can form inside the heat exchanger. If it’s thick, they might recommend a chemical flush later.
Inspecting and Testing Safety Devices
Your boiler has built-in safety features. The thermostat, pressure relief valve, flame rollout switch, and fan delay switch all need to work perfectly. The engineer tests each one. For example, they’ll turn the thermostat down to see if the boiler shuts off correctly. They’ll manually trigger the pressure relief valve to make sure it releases water if pressure gets too high. If any device fails-even slightly-the boiler could overheat, flood your home, or even explode in extreme cases. These aren’t optional checks. They’re required by Australian Standards AS 5601 for gas installations.
Checking the Water Pressure and System Balance
The boiler heats water that circulates through your radiators. That water needs to be at the right pressure-usually between 1 and 1.5 bar. Too low, and the boiler won’t start. Too high, and it can leak or burst. The technician checks the pressure gauge and tops it up if needed. They also check for air trapped in the system. Bleeding the radiators is part of the job. If some rooms are cold while others are hot, that’s often a sign of poor circulation. They’ll check the pump speed and balance the system so heat flows evenly.
Inspecting the Flue and Ventilation
The flue is your boiler’s exhaust pipe. It carries dangerous gases outside. If it’s blocked by bird nests, leaves, or debris, those gases can come back into your home. The engineer checks the flue for obstructions, corrosion, or loose joints. They’ll look at the termination point-where the flue exits the house-to make sure it’s clear and properly positioned. For condensing boilers, they also check the condensate pipe. If it freezes in winter (yes, that happens in Brisbane’s cooler spells), it can shut the boiler down. They’ll make sure it’s insulated or rerouted if needed.
Testing the Control System and Thermostat
Modern boilers are controlled by digital thermostats, timers, or smart apps. The technician makes sure the boiler responds correctly to commands. They’ll change the temperature setting and watch if the boiler turns on and off as expected. If you have a smart thermostat, they’ll check the Wi-Fi connection and app functionality. A misbehaving thermostat can cause the boiler to run nonstop or never turn on. That’s not just annoying-it’s a waste of energy and money. They’ll also check for error codes stored in the boiler’s memory. Even if the boiler seems fine, those codes can hint at past problems.
Providing a Service Report and Recommendations
After everything’s checked, you get a written report. This isn’t just a receipt-it’s a record of your boiler’s health. It lists what was checked, what was found, and what needs attention. Maybe the pressure valve is leaking slightly. Maybe the heat exchanger has minor corrosion. The report tells you if it’s a minor fix or something that needs replacing soon. A good technician won’t push unnecessary upgrades. They’ll explain what’s urgent, what can wait, and what’s just normal wear. Keep this report. It’s useful for insurance claims, home sales, or if you need a follow-up service.
What’s Not Included in a Standard Boiler Service
A standard service doesn’t cover repairs or replacements. If your pump is broken, your diverter valve is stuck, or your heat exchanger is cracked, those are separate jobs. You’ll get a quote for those, but they’re not part of the service fee. Also, a service doesn’t include cleaning your radiators, replacing your thermostat, or fixing leaks in your pipes. Those are additional services. Don’t assume everything’s covered. Ask upfront what’s included and what’s extra.
How Often Should You Service Your Boiler?
Every year. That’s the rule. Even if your boiler seems perfect, annual servicing keeps it safe and efficient. Most manufacturers require it to keep your warranty valid. Insurance companies also ask for proof of service if you make a claim. In Brisbane, the best time is late summer or early autumn-before the cold hits. That way, if something’s wrong, you have time to fix it without rushing.
Why DIY Boiler Checks Are Dangerous
You might be tempted to clean the outside, check the pressure, or reset the boiler yourself. That’s fine for basic checks. But opening the casing, adjusting gas settings, or testing combustion levels? That’s not DIY. Gas work requires a licensed technician. In Queensland, only people with a Gas Fitter Licence can legally work on gas appliances. Unlicensed work can lead to fines, voided insurance, or worse-poisoning. Let the pros handle the inside. You handle the thermostat.
What to Look for in a Boiler Service Provider
Not all technicians are the same. Look for someone who’s licensed by the Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC) and registered with the Gas Safe Register (or its Australian equivalent). Ask if they use a combustion analyzer-it’s not always standard. Check reviews for mentions of clear reports and no upselling. A good technician will explain what they’re doing in plain language. If they use too much jargon or refuse to show you the report, walk away.
Is a boiler service the same as a boiler repair?
No. A boiler service is a preventive check-up. It’s like an oil change for your car. A repair fixes something that’s already broken. Services prevent repairs. If your boiler isn’t working, you need a repair. If it’s working but you haven’t had a service in over a year, you need a service.
How long does a boiler service take?
Most boiler services take between 45 and 75 minutes. It can be longer if the boiler is old, dirty, or if they find issues that need explaining. A quick 20-minute check usually means they didn’t do a full job.
Can I skip my boiler service if it’s still working fine?
You can, but you shouldn’t. Boilers don’t always show warning signs before they fail. Carbon monoxide leaks can happen silently. A dirty heat exchanger can reduce efficiency by up to 20%, meaning you pay more for less heat. Annual service catches these problems early-before they cost you hundreds or put your family at risk.
What’s the average cost of a boiler service in Brisbane?
In 2025, a standard boiler service in Brisbane costs between $140 and $220. Prices vary based on boiler type (combi, system, regular), age, and whether the technician is from a big company or a local tradesperson. Avoid services under $100-they’re often incomplete. The cheapest option isn’t always the safest.
Does a boiler service include a gas safety certificate?
Yes, if you’re a landlord. By law, rental properties in Queensland require a Gas Safety Certificate after every boiler service. Homeowners don’t need it unless required by insurance. But most reputable technicians will still give you a signed service report that acts as proof of maintenance. Ask for it.
Next Steps After Your Boiler Service
After the service, keep the report in a safe place-maybe with your home insurance documents. Set a reminder on your phone for next year. If the technician mentioned a potential issue, like a weak pressure valve, check the boiler’s pressure every few weeks. If you notice new noises, smells, or cold spots in your home, call them back. Don’t wait until winter. A small fix now saves big trouble later.
