Is boiler cover really worth it?

Don't get caught out this winter. If you're a homeowner, you need to make sure that your boiler is covered in case the worst happens. A breakdown can be miserable when it's freezing outside, but if you can't get your boiler fixed in a hurry you might be facing weeks in a cold home with no hot water.

Fortunately, there is help at hand. Boiler cover is quick and easy to arrange and can give you peace of mind at any time of year, especially when the temperature drops.

What is boiler cover?

Boiler cover gives you access to a certified heating engineer who can attend your home in an emergency and get your boiler up and running again. This type of boiler insurance or service contract often includes a boiler service so you can help to prevent a breakdown happening. Payments are paid monthly or annually and can cost as little as £10 per month for a basic policy or contract that can save you hundreds of pounds in the long run.

Depending on the make and model of your boiler you may need to opt for a more comprehensive plan that includes home emergency cover for a range of appliances. You can also opt to cover your entire central heating system under your boiler cover for additional security.

Do you need boiler insurance?

It's important to remember that even new boilers can break down. In fact, according to Which? research, your boiler stands a 50% chance of breaking down within the first 6 years. Insurers are also reluctant to cover very old boilers, sometimes capping insurance at as little as 7 years.

However, there are some tell-tale signs that your boiler might not be performing as it should. That's when boiler insurance makes a sensible backup plan to avoid a costly winter breakdown. If the pilot flame is burning orange rather than blue, or your gas bills seem unusually high, then your boiler might not be working at maximum efficiency. Other signs to look out for are falling and rising pressure and ticking or clunking noises which can also indicate that all is not well.

If that's the case, then get your boiler serviced and arrange for boiler insurance using a price comparison website to get the best deal for your boiler. Remember, you only need boiler insurance if you're a homeowner. If you rent your property then your landlord is responsible for boiler repairs.

What type of cover will I need?

If you have a new boiler then you can opt for basic boiler maintenance contract that covers parts and labour. Look for plans that include an annual service for additional peace of mind. If your boiler is over 6 years old or has a history of breaking down, then opt for a policy with unlimited claims.

Obviously, the level of cover you require will be dictated by your heating system. For example, if it provides both hot water and heating then extend the boiler insurance to cover your radiators as well. Always be on the lookout for superfluous extras - cross check any cover against what's already included in your household insurance so you don't end up paying over the odds. Be aware that the more extras included in the policy, the more you'll pay, so being clear on the level of cover you actually need will save you money in the long run without leaving you exposed to undue costs.

Is boiler cover worth it?

If you've suffered the nightmare of a boiler breakdown in winter then you'll know the answer is definitely yes. If you're one of the 18% of people who had at least one boiler breakdown last year, it won't surprise you to know that a staggering £787 million was spent on repairs, which can leave you out of pocket and struggling to pay your household bills.

The average cost of repairing a boiler is now £270. That's not surprising when the most common boiler repairs like a new gas valve, combustion valve or circuit board can cost well over £200. If it turns out you need an entirely new boiler then you might find yourself paying out up to £2,500.

For true peace of mind this winter, taking out affordable boiler cover means you'll have the home emergency cover you need, when you need it.