Steam Boiler Servicing

What is a Gas-Fired Steam Boiler – and How Much Does Servicing Cost?

Gas-fired steam boilers play a critical role in many industrial and commercial operations, providing consistent, high-pressure steam for heating, sterilisation, power generation, and process applications. Whether in a manufacturing plant, food production facility, hospital, or refinery, steam boilers must perform reliably.

In this article, we’ll explore what gas-fired steam boilers are, how much servicing typically costs, and why regular maintenance is vital to safety, efficiency, and compliance.

What is a Gas-Fired Steam Boiler?

A gas-fired steam boiler is an industrial pressure vessel that heats water into steam using natural gas or LPG as fuel. The steam is then used for a wide range of industrial processes or building heating.

These systems are designed to operate at high pressures and temperatures, and often form the backbone of mission-critical infrastructure.

Key features include:

• High-output burners for efficient fuel combustion

• Steam drums and water level controls

• Blowdown systems and condensate recovery

• Safety valves and pressure gauges

• Integrated control panels and remote monitoring options

Gas-fired steam boilers are found in chemical plants, hospitals, pharmaceutical production, textile mills, and commercial laundries, where reliable steam delivery is essential.

How Much Does it Cost to Service a Gas-Fired Steam Boiler?

The cost of servicing a gas-fired steam boiler varies based on several factors, including the size and complexity of the system, site access, and whether the boiler is part of a larger plant room.

Typical cost range: £700 – £2,000 (ex VAT) per service.

For large-scale high-pressure systems, costs can exceed £2,000—especially if comprehensive testing, combustion analysis, and certification are required. Prices exclude replacement parts, which are quoted separately if repairs are needed.

For operations running multiple boilers or facilities, PPM (Planned Preventive Maintenance) contracts can help manage costs and minimise unplanned downtime.

How Often Should a Steam Boiler be Serviced?

Steam boilers should be serviced at least once annually, though biannual servicing is often advised for high-load or mission-critical systems. In some industries (e.g., healthcare, food production), compliance standards or insurance providers may mandate more frequent inspections.

Regular servicing helps:

• Prevent breakdowns and steam loss

• Maintain pressure system safety (as required by PUWER and PSSR regulations)

• Ensure efficient combustion and fuel economy

• Extend the lifespan of the boiler

• Fulfil insurance and warranty conditions

What’s Included in a Gas-Fired Steam Boiler Service?

A professional steam boiler service is more than a quick inspection—it involves thorough maintenance and testing of all safety-critical systems.

Typical service checklist:

• Burner strip-down, inspection, and combustion testing

• Cleaning of fire tubes, combustion chamber, and flue passages

• Inspection of steam and water-side components

• Gas tightness testing and leak checks

• Blowdown valve and condensate trap checks

• Water level control and low-water cutoff tests

• Pressure relief valve inspection

• Flue gas analysis to verify combustion efficiency

• Testing and calibration of sensors and control systems

• Review of logbooks and service records

• Issuance of service documentation and gas safety certificates

The engineer may also conduct non-destructive testing (NDT) or prepare the system for insurance inspections under the Pressure Systems Safety Regulations (PSSR).

Signs Your Steam Boiler Needs Immediate Servicing

Do not delay servicing if you notice any of the following warning signs:

• Inconsistent steam pressure or output

• Unusual noises or hissing sounds

• Visible leaks or water hammer

• Yellow burner flames or black smoke

• Frequent lockouts or shutdowns

• Error codes or alarm signals on the control panel

These issues can indicate serious problems—such as scaling, combustion failure, or compromised safety systems—that can escalate quickly if left unaddressed.

Benefits of Regular Steam Boiler Servicing

Routine servicing of your gas-fired steam boiler delivers clear advantages:

• Improved energy efficiency and lower gas bills

• Reduced emissions and environmental compliance

• Prevention of costly emergency breakdowns

• Extended equipment lifespan

• Improved safety for operators and staff

• Continued compliance with UK safety regulations and insurance policies

Regular maintenance is not only a legal and safety necessity but also a cost-effective way to keep operations running smoothly.

Book Your Gas-Fired Steam Boiler Service Today

At MHL, we’re experts in the service, repair, and maintenance of gas-fired steam boilers across the UK. Our experienced engineers are Gas Safe registered and qualified to work on high-pressure steam systems in industries ranging from manufacturing and food processing to healthcare and energy.

Whether you need a one-off service, emergency support, or a long-term maintenance agreement, we’re here to help.

Contact us today to schedule a steam boiler service or request a quote. We operate UK-wide and offer fast, reliable support.