As Gas Safety Week begins (14 to 20 September), a survey commissioned by Worcester Bosch has revealed alarming truths among homeowners and tenants when it comes to boiler maintenance - something which has deteriorated during lockdown.
According to the Opinium survey of 2000 homeowners and tenants, almost a third of boilers were overdue on checks, with lockdown measures delaying these further, given the restrictions on people entering houses. A significant 24% of those surveyed also admitted that they were unaware that their boilers should be checked every 12 months.
In addition, 1 in 5 of those renting said they were unaware if their landlord had had a gas safety check undertaken on their boilers – even though it is a legal requirement.
Ensuring a boiler is regularly serviced is an important and necessary procedure that every household should make a priority - not just for safety reasons, but also financial ones. A boiler that is serviced on a regular basis will continue to run efficiently, saving money on energy bills. When asked, 40% of those surveyed didn’t know that the two went hand in hand.
The research also found that a quarter of people believed a boiler would only last up to 5 years, when in fact with the correct maintenance they can last up to two decades.
Martyn Bridges, Director of Technical Communication and Product Management at Worcester Bosch, commented: “Our findings are alarming, however sadly not too surprising. Heating appliances such as boilers are regularly overlooked by homeowners, even though if not properly maintained they can cause a number of issues.
“Having your boiler regularly serviced can ensure it is running efficiently and safely, as well as avoiding unavoidable – and sometimes costly - issues later down the line. Gas Safety Week is a good time than any to book your servicing in and ensure you and your household stay safe – and your pockets stay fuller – as we head into the colder months.”
