When was the last time your heating system had a proper service?

If you’re like most homeowners across Exeter, Exmouth, and the South Hams, it’s probably been a while. And while it’s easy to put off, skipping annual servicing can lead to bigger problems — and higher bills — down the line.

Here are 6 signs your boiler or heating system is crying out for a service.

1. Your Radiators Aren’t Heating Evenly

Cold patches, especially at the bottom or in one part of the house, could mean:

• Sludge buildup in radiators or pipework

• Air trapped in the system

• Poor system balancing

A service will help identify the cause and get things working efficiently again.

2. You Hear Banging, Gurgling or Whistling

Strange noises from your boiler or pipework aren’t just annoying — they often point to issues like:

• Limescale buildup

• Blocked heat exchangers

• Pressure problems or pump faults

A heating service will catch these before they cause a breakdown.

3. The Boiler Pressure Keeps Dropping

If you're constantly topping up your boiler, it might have a:

• Slow leak

• Faulty expansion vessel

• PRV (pressure relief valve) issue

These are all things we check during a routine boiler service.

4. It’s Been Over a Year

Manufacturers recommend annual servicing — and in many cases, your warranty requires it.
We often see people caught out when they skip a year, only to find they’re no longer covered.

5. Your Heating Bills Are Creeping Up

A boiler that’s out of tune will:

• Burn more fuel

• Take longer to heat your home

• Struggle to keep water hot

Regular servicing helps keep everything running efficiently and safely.

6. You’ve Moved Into a New Property

If you've just bought or rented a home and the boiler hasn't been serviced recently — get it checked.
It’s one of the quickest ways to avoid unexpected cold showers or boiler faults in winter.

What a Heating Service Includes (with EPM)

We:

• Check and clean internal components

• Test the flue, burner and heat exchanger

• Inspect for gas leaks and pressure issues

• Review controls and safety features

• Give you a full breakdown and certificate

We’re fast, tidy, and we cover homes across Devon with same-week availability.

What It Costs

• Boiler service (gas): £100

• Boiler & gas safety check (with radiators): From £150

• System balancing or extras: Estimated if needed

• Emergency faults: From £150+

Final Word from EPM

Think of a boiler service like an MOT for your heating. It keeps your system safe, efficient and ready for winter.

If you haven’t booked one yet this year, now’s the perfect time — before the real cold sets in.