The unexpected costs of boiler repairs: why boiler care is worth it

Boiler repairs can be a right headache for homeowners, especially when they’re unexpected and pricey. From faulty thermostats to complete breakdowns, boiler issues can very quickly turn into a financial nightmare.

While some homeowners take their chances and pay for repairs out of pocket, others  turn to boiler insurance or care packages to avoid the hefty bill. But is boiler coverage really worth it?

In this blog, we look at the unforeseen costs of boiler repairs and breakdowns and discuss how boiler care packages can save you money and give you peace of mind. Read on to learn more.

The unexpected costs of boiler repairs

Boiler repairs can be costly, and their unexpected nature can make them even more stressful for homeowners. HomeServe says the average bill for a boiler repair is £270-£360, with more complex repairs as much as £1,000. These costs quickly add up and if you’re experiencing multiple boiler breakdowns in a short space of time, the financial hit can knock you for six.

On top of this, homeowners may also need to fork out for temporary heating solutions in the meantime or the cost of replacing damaged property. Burst pipes, for example, can cause untold damage. When they’re out of the blue, these costs are difficult to budget for.

And the stress and hassle of a boiler breakdown can’t be overlooked. Not having hot water or heating during the winter months can be a serious pain, particularly for families with young children or elderly relatives.

Here are some of the common boiler problems we find

• Low pressure – can be caused by a variety of factors, such as a leak in the system or a faulty pressure relief valve
• Faulty thermostats – can cause the boiler to overheat or underheat, which can end up in higher energy bills or a lack of heating
• Leaks – can be the result of factors, including corrosion or damage to the boiler’s seals or pipes

Benefits of boiler care

Looking at the positives, boiler care provides a range of benefits, including

• protection against unexpected repair costs – choose a predictable monthly or annual fee
• access to emergency repair services – especially valuable during the winter months
• peace of mind – knowing your boiler or system is covered saves you a whole heap of stress

By paying a monthly or annual fee, homeowners can rest assured that they will be covered in the event of a boiler breakdown.

Types of boiler insurance coverage

There are several types of boiler coverage available to homeowners, including the basic, standard, and comprehensive.

Looking at the market in general, this is what you usually get

• Basic – typically covers the cost of an annual boiler service and repairs to your boiler’s components, such as the pump and motorised valves
• Standard – usually includes all of the benefits of basic, but you get your boiler controls, thermostat and programmer thrown in for good measure
• Comprehensive – all of benefits of basic and standard, as well as cover for your boiler’s heat exchanger, flue, and gas supply pipe

We offer three levels too, but with Sensible Boiler Care you can choose between

• Boiler Care – repairs to your boiler including issues with any thermostats, programmers, valves or pumps. Includes all parts and labour
• Central Heating care – all the benefits of Boiler Care, with extra cover for your central heating and plumbing
• Complete Care – all the benefits of Central Heating Care plus cover for your drains, sinks and toilets

The choice is yours. When choosing boiler coverage, consider what you need and what you can afford.

Things to consider when choosing boiler insurance

When choosing boiler cover, homeowners should consider several factors, such as

• cost of the insurance or care package
• level of coverage provided
• reputation of the provider
• additional benefits, such as 24/7 emergency repair services or discounts on other home maintenance services
• age and condition of boiler – older boilers may need more comprehensive coverage, while newer boilers only require a basic package
• terms and conditions of policy – don’t get caught out by exclusions or restrictions on coverage

Needless to say, homeowners should compare the cost and coverage of different insurance or care providers before making a decision. While cost is an important factor, it should not be the only consideration when choosing a provider.

Boiler maintenance tips to avoid repairs

While boiler coverage is great peace of mind, you can take steps to swerve the need for repairs in the first place. Regular maintenance helps to prevent issues with your boiler and makes sure it is running efficiently.

Here are four things you can do

• Book an annual service of your boiler by a GasSafe-registered engineer – the engineer will check the boiler for any faults or potential issues, and will clean and repair it as necessary (NOTE: This is part of your package with Sensible Boiler Care)
• Bleed your radiators regularly to ensure that they’re working efficiently
• Keep the area around the boiler clear of clutter to allow for adequate ventilation
• Beware the signs of a potential boiler breakdown, such as strange noises or a decrease in heating efficiency – if you suspect anything, contact an engineer as soon as possible to prevent further damage

Importance of hiring a professional boiler repair service

As tempting as it may be to DIY it with your boiler repairs, it is important to hire a professional boiler repair service. Here are three big reasons why

1 The safety risks – boiler repairs can be dangerous, especially if you’re not familiar with the components or gas safety regs. Attempting repairs without the proper knowledge or equipment can also cause further damage to the boiler or property.

2 Knowledge and skills – a professional boiler repair service will have the expertise and equipment necessary to diagnose and repair any issues with your boiler. They’ll also know about gas safety regulations and will make sure your boiler is safe to use before they leave your property.

3 Guarantee on work – a professional repair service will provide a guarantee on their work, ensuring that you are protected in the event of further issues.

Conclusion: Why boiler cover is a smart investment

Boiler repairs can be costly and stressful for homeowners, particularly when they come out of the blue. Boiler cover brings a range of benefits, including protection against unexpected repair costs, peace of mind and access to emergency repair services.

When choosing boiler cover, consider your specific needs and budget. Take those simple steps to maintain your boiler, and be aware of the signs of a potential breakdown.

And last but not least, boiler cover such as Sensible Boiler Care means you get a professional boiler repair service to diagnose and repair any issues with your boiler.

By taking these steps, you will protect yourself from the unexpected bills and stress of a  boiler breakdown, and ensure your home remains safe, cosy and comfortable.

Need help with your boiler or heating system? Contact us today