When the sun comes out over Warwickshire and the heating goes off, most homeowners stop thinking about their boiler entirely. Out of sight, out of mind. But here’s the thing — summer is actually the best time to sort your boiler out. Here’s why.
Why Bother With Your Boiler in Summer?
It might seem counterintuitive, but getting your boiler serviced or any issues dealt with in summer has some genuine advantages:
- Engineers are less busy: Autumn and winter are peak times for heating callouts. In summer, you’ll get appointments faster and at more flexible times.
- No emergency pressure: If a fault is found, you have months to sort it before you need the heating again — rather than scrambling in January when every engineer in Leamington Spa is booked solid.
- Better for your boiler: A boiler that sits unused for months can develop problems. A summer service catches issues early.
- Hot water still matters: Even in summer, your boiler is working to heat your water. A poorly performing boiler can still cost you money and cause problems.
Summer Boiler Health Checklist
Run through these checks now while the pressure is off:
Check the Pressure Gauge
Your boiler pressure should sit between 1 and 1.5 bar when cold (check your manual for the exact range). If it’s below 1 bar, the system needs topping up. If it keeps dropping, there could be a leak in the system worth investigating.
Test the Boiler Fires Up
Even if you don’t need heating, run the boiler briefly to make sure it fires up without fault codes. Better to discover a problem in July than in October.
Check the Flue
Look at the external flue terminal (usually a vent pipe coming out of the wall). Make sure it’s not blocked by bird nests, vegetation, or debris — this is a surprisingly common summer issue.
Inspect for Leaks
Look around the boiler and under any visible pipework for signs of water staining or drips. Even small leaks can cause significant damage over time.
Book a Service
If your boiler hasn’t been serviced in the last 12 months, now is the time. A full service from a Gas Safe registered engineer includes combustion testing, safety checks, and cleaning — keeping your boiler running efficiently and safely.
Don’t Forget Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Check that your carbon monoxide alarm is working — press the test button and replace the batteries if needed. If your alarm is more than 5 years old, replace it. This is a year-round priority, not just a winter concern.
Thinking About Upgrading?
If your boiler is more than 10 years old, summer is a great time to get a quote for a replacement. You can plan the installation at your convenience rather than waiting until the boiler fails in the depths of winter. PPS Gas & Electric offers free surveys and honest advice for homeowners across Leamington Spa, Warwick, and Warwickshire.
Call PPS Gas & Electric on 01926 778709 or visit ppsgas.com to book your appointment today.