With the winter months on their way, you might start to use your boiler more, especially to heat your home as temperatures drop.

It’s important to make sure your boiler is safe and working correctly so booking a service is an essential task for homeowners.

But how often should you service your boiler and when is the best time of year to do it?

How often should you service your boiler?

Your boiler should be serviced “at least once a year”, according to BOXT.

The website adds that servicing your boiler regularly can help you “ensure it functions correctly and does not have any water or gas leaks.”

Dorset Echo: A boiler should be serviced at least once a year, according to BOXTA boiler should be serviced at least once a year, according to BOXT (Image: Getty Images)

Those who decide against having their boiler serviced annually could run into problems such as a boiler breakdown or invalidating their warranty.

The overall performance of their boiler can also be affected if it isn’t serviced annually.

When is the best time of year to get your boiler serviced?

Summer is the best time of the year to get your boiler serviced, says British Gas.

The website adds that if your boiler is serviced in the summer, it will be set for use in winter when you most need it.

Engineers are less busy in the summer months so getting your appointment then is best.

British Gas reminds customers to make sure they make a note of their service and to set a reminder for themselves so they don’t miss their next boiler service.

You should always have a Gas Safe registered engineer to carry out the service.

Dorset Echo: British Gas recommends getting your boiler serviced in summerBritish Gas recommends getting your boiler serviced in summer (Image: Getty Images)

Why should you get your boiler serviced?

A boiler service means you’ll be paying out for another thing but it can keep your family safe and help you detect small problems before they become big.

In the long run, you might be able to save some money by having your boiler serviced.

British Gas adds: “With many boiler warranties and business insurance policies, you’re actually required to complete a regular service to ensure your boiler is safe. If you don’t, it could invalidate your policy.”

If you’re a landlord, it’s a legal requirement to have the boiler in your property serviced.