When your boiler stops working in the middle of winter, you don’t have time to figure out who to call. You just need heat. That’s when the question pops up: Do plumbers handle boilers? The short answer is yes-most do. But not all plumbers are created equal when it comes to boilers, and knowing the difference can save you money, time, and a lot of frustration.
Plumbers and Boilers: The Overlap
Plumbers deal with water systems. That includes pipes, taps, drains, and water heaters. Boilers, on the other hand, heat water to provide central heating and hot water. So logically, if a boiler moves water through pipes, a plumber should be able to fix it. And they often can.In New Zealand, most licensed plumbers are trained to install, service, and repair gas and oil-fired boilers. They’ll check for leaks, replace faulty pumps, bleed radiators, and reset pressure issues. These are routine tasks that fall under standard plumbing work. If your boiler’s making strange noises or leaking water from the base, a plumber can usually sort it out without calling in a specialist.
Where Plumbers Stop and Heating Engineers Start
But here’s the catch: boilers aren’t just plumbing. They’re complex heating systems with electrical components, gas controls, thermostats, and safety valves. A boiler that won’t ignite isn’t always a water issue-it could be a faulty ignition module, a blocked flue, or a malfunctioning gas valve. These problems require more than pipe wrenches and sealant.That’s where heating engineers come in. In New Zealand, heating engineers are licensed under the Gas (Safety) Regulations and hold a Gas Fitter or Gas Installer endorsement. They’re trained to work on gas appliances, interpret error codes, test for carbon monoxide leaks, and recalibrate combustion systems. If your boiler displays an error code like F22 or E1, you’re likely dealing with something only a heating engineer can diagnose properly.
Many plumbers in Wellington and other cities partner with heating engineers. They’ll handle the water side-replacing a leaking pipe connected to the boiler-then call in the gas expert to fix the actual unit. Some plumbers have dual qualifications, but it’s not automatic. Always ask: “Are you licensed to work on gas boilers?”
What a Boiler Repair Actually Involves
A full boiler service isn’t just turning it on and off. A proper check includes:- Checking gas pressure and flow rates
- Inspecting the heat exchanger for cracks
- Testing the flue for proper ventilation
- Verifying the thermostat and timer are working
- Checking for carbon monoxide emissions
- Cleaning the burner and condensate pipe
- Resetting the system and confirming safe operation
These aren’t tasks you can eyeball. You need tools-gas analyzers, pressure gauges, flue gas testers. Most plumbers don’t carry them. Heating engineers do. If someone shows up with just a wrench and a smile, they might fix a leaky pipe-but they won’t guarantee your boiler is safe to run.
Why It Matters: Safety and Legal Requirements
In New Zealand, gas appliances must be serviced by licensed professionals. If a boiler is serviced by someone without the correct gas endorsement, it’s not legally compliant. That could void your home insurance in case of a leak or fire. It also puts your family at risk.Carbon monoxide is silent, odorless, and deadly. A poorly maintained boiler can leak it without warning. In 2023, WorkSafe New Zealand reported 17 incidents of carbon monoxide poisoning linked to faulty heating systems. Most were due to unlicensed repairs or ignored warning signs.
Always ask for proof of licensing. A qualified gas fitter will have a current Gas Fitter Licence issued by the Gas Industry Company (GIC). You can verify this online through the GIC register. Don’t accept a business card or a verbal claim-ask to see the actual license.
When to Call a Plumber vs. a Heating Engineer
Here’s a simple guide to help you decide who to call:| Issue | Call a Plumber | Call a Heating Engineer |
|---|---|---|
| Water leaking from boiler or pipes | ✓ | |
| Boiler won’t turn on at all | ✓ | |
| Error code on display | ✓ | |
| No hot water, but radiators work | ✓ | ✓ |
| Strange smells or soot around boiler | ✓ | |
| Low water pressure | ✓ | ✓ |
| Boiler cycling on and off too often | ✓ |
If you’re unsure, start with a plumber. They can assess whether it’s a water issue or if it needs a gas expert. Most reputable plumbers will tell you straight away if they can’t fix it.
What to Look for in a Boiler Service Provider
Not every plumber or heating engineer is reliable. Here’s what to check before hiring anyone:- Valid Gas Fitter Licence (check GIC register)
- Public liability insurance (minimum $2 million)
- Experience with your boiler brand (Vaillant, Worcester, Baxi, etc.)
- Clear pricing-no vague quotes like “depends on the problem”
- Written service report after the job
A good provider will explain what they found, what they fixed, and what to watch for next. They won’t pressure you into replacing the boiler unless it’s truly beyond repair. If they say “it’s cheaper to replace,” ask for a written quote for both repair and replacement. Compare them.
Prevention: Don’t Wait for Breakdown
The best boiler repair is the one you never need. Most manufacturers recommend an annual service. In New Zealand’s damp, cold climate, boilers work harder and wear out faster. Skipping maintenance increases the risk of sudden failure-and higher repair bills.Book a service in early autumn, before winter hits. A good technician will clean the system, check for corrosion, test safety features, and give you a reminder for next year. Many companies offer service plans that include priority callouts and discounted parts.
Also, keep the area around your boiler clear. Don’t store boxes or cleaning supplies near it. Blocked air vents or dusty burners are common causes of failure.
What If You Can’t Find a Local Expert?
In smaller towns or rural areas, qualified heating engineers may be hard to find. If that’s your situation:- Call a licensed plumber first-they often know who to refer you to.
- Check the Gas Industry Company’s public register for licensed professionals near you.
- Ask neighbors or local hardware stores for recommendations.
- Never hire someone who doesn’t show proof of licensing.
Some plumbers travel to outlying areas. You might pay a bit more for travel, but it’s safer than letting an unqualified person touch your gas system.
Final Answer: Do Plumbers Handle Boilers?
Yes-but only for the plumbing side. If your boiler has a leaky pipe, low pressure, or a dripping condensate line, a plumber can fix it. But if the boiler isn’t heating, won’t light, or shows an error code, you need a licensed heating engineer with gas qualifications. Don’t assume a plumber can handle everything. Ask the right questions. Verify their license. And never compromise on safety.Boilers are one of the most important systems in your home. Treat them like your car’s engine-regular checkups, expert care, and no shortcuts. Your warmth-and your safety-depend on it.
Can any plumber fix my boiler?
Not all plumbers can fix boilers safely. Only plumbers who are also licensed gas fitters can work on the gas and electrical parts of a boiler. If they’re not licensed for gas work, they can only handle water-related issues like leaks or pressure problems. Always ask to see their Gas Fitter Licence before they start work.
How do I know if my boiler needs a repair or a replacement?
If your boiler is over 10-15 years old, has frequent breakdowns, or costs more than half the price of a new unit to repair, replacement is usually the better choice. Signs like rising energy bills, uneven heating, or strange noises often mean the heat exchanger is failing. A qualified technician will give you a written assessment comparing repair cost versus replacement cost.
Is boiler servicing mandatory in New Zealand?
Servicing isn’t legally required by law, but it’s required by your home insurance policy and manufacturer’s warranty. Most insurers will refuse to pay out if a boiler fire or leak is caused by lack of maintenance. Also, gas appliances must be serviced by licensed professionals to remain compliant with safety regulations.
Can I service my boiler myself?
You can clean the outside and check for leaks, but you cannot legally service the internal gas or electrical components yourself. Doing so is dangerous and illegal under New Zealand’s Gas (Safety) Regulations. Only licensed gas fitters can open the boiler casing, test gas pressure, or adjust the burner.
What’s the average cost of boiler repair in New Zealand?
Basic repairs like resetting pressure or replacing a pump cost between $150 and $350. More complex issues like a cracked heat exchanger or faulty control board can run $600-$1,200. Always get a written quote before work begins. Some companies charge a call-out fee, so ask if it’s waived if you proceed with the repair.
