As the warmer months approach, many homeowners across Bath and Somerset tend to forget about their heating systems. After all, why worry about your boiler when you’re not using it? However, summer boiler maintenance is actually one of the smartest moves you can make as a homeowner. As local heating engineers who’ve served the Bath area for years, we’ve seen how proper preparation in the summer can prevent winter headaches and extend your boiler’s lifespan considerably.
Let’s explore the essential maintenance tasks to prepare your boiler for the summer months and why this often-overlooked timing is perfect for specific heating system jobs.
Why Summer Boiler Maintenance Matters
You might think that giving your boiler a complete rest during summer is the best approach, but there are compelling reasons to keep it in mind:
Preventing System Seizure
Boiler components and central heating pumps can seize up when left dormant for extended periods. Valves, pumps, and other moving parts benefit from occasional use, even during warmer months.
Identifying Problems Early
Summer provides the perfect opportunity to spot any developing issues without the pressure of needing immediate heat. Finding problems now means you won’t be left in the cold when autumn arrives.
Availability of Engineers
Our diary tends to be less busy during the summer compared to our peak winter period. This means more flexible appointments and often quicker service.
Preparing for Efficiency
A well-maintained boiler will run more efficiently when needed again, helping to lower energy bills during colder months.
Essential Summer Boiler Maintenance Tasks
1. Run Your Heating Briefly
We recommend turning on your central heating for about 15 minutes monthly during summer. This simple action keeps the system active and helps prevent moving parts from seizing. Think of it like occasionally starting a car that’s kept in storage – it keeps everything in working order.
2. Check Your Boiler Pressure
Summer is the perfect time to ensure your boiler pressure is at the optimal level (usually between 1-1.5 bar). Low pressure can cause inefficiency, while high pressure might trigger safety features. If you’re unsure how to check or adjust pressure, ask us when we service your boiler.
3. Bleed Your Radiators
Before shutting down your heating system for summer, it’s wise to bleed your radiators to release any trapped air. This ensures your system will work efficiently when autumn returns. We’ve written a detailed guide on how to bleed your radiators that many homeowners find helpful.
4. Look for Leaks or Corrosion
With the system under less demand, summer provides an excellent opportunity to inspect visible pipework and your boiler for any signs of leaks, damp patches, or corrosion. Early detection can prevent more severe water damage or system failures.
5. Clear Space Around Your Boiler
Many of us use the summer months for decluttering. Remember that your boiler needs adequate ventilation and clearance space. Remove any items that might have accumulated around it during winter, particularly if your boiler is in a cupboard or utility room.
6. Book Your Annual Service
Summer is the perfect time for your annual boiler service – and not just because our engineers have more availability. Having your boiler professionally serviced during warmer months means:
- Any issues can be addressed without leaving you without heating
- Your system will be in peak condition before the heating season begins
- You’ll avoid the autumn/winter rush when everyone suddenly remembers their boiler needs attention
Our boiler services includes a comprehensive multi-point check, ensuring your system runs safely and efficiently.
Consider Summer for Boiler Replacement
If your boiler has been showing signs of age or inefficiency, summer is the ideal time to consider replacing your boiler. Here’s why:
- You won’t be without heating during cold weather
- More flexible installation appointment times
- Time to get used to new controls before you really need them
As Worcester Bosch accredited installers, we can recommend the perfect system for your home and complete the installation with minimal disruption during the summer months.
Summer Boiler Switch-Off: Yes or No?
We’re often asked whether switching the boiler off completely during summer is better. For most modern combi boilers, we generally recommend keeping them on but turning the heating function off via your programmer. This allows your boiler to provide hot water on demand without running the central heating.
For conventional systems with hot water cylinders, similar advice applies – keep the hot water function active but turn off the central heating aspect.
Addressing Common Summer Boiler Issues
Low Pressure
Pressure can naturally drop over time. If your boiler’s pressure gauge is reading below 1 bar, you may need to repressurise your system following your manufacturer’s instructions.
Unusual Noises
If you hear banging, gurgling, or whistling when briefly running your system during summer, it might indicate air in the system or a build-up of limescale – particularly common in Bath’s hard water area. These issues are best addressed before winter arrives.
Pilot Light Problems
For older boilers with permanent pilot lights, check occasionally that the flame remains lit and is burning blue. A yellow or orange flame could indicate a serious issue requiring professional attention.
Looking Ahead to Autumn
By implementing these summer boiler maintenance tips, you’ll ensure your heating system remains in excellent condition throughout the warmer months and is ready to perform efficiently when temperatures drop again.
Remember that proper summer preparation isn’t just about preventing problems – it’s about optimising your system’s efficiency and extending its lifespan, potentially saving you significant money in the long run.
If you’d like help preparing your boiler for summer, or you’re thinking this might be the right time for a service or upgrade, our experienced heating engineers are just a phone call away. Contact GreenSmart Services on 01225 982222 to book a summer boiler service or discuss how we can help ensure your Worcester Bosch boiler provides reliable, efficient heating for years to come.
