Heating maintenance emphasized in Belgium and the Netherlands

As the heating season approaches, experts and government agencies are emphasizing the importance of central heating maintenance for safety and efficiency in Belgium and the Netherlands.

In Flanders, the Flemish Government offers a subsidy for low-income households to cover the costs of boiler maintenance. For maintenance performed in 2026, the subsidy covers the cost up to a maximum of 192 euros. To qualify, applicants must provide an invoice and a cleaning and combustion certificate from a recognized technician. Eligibility is based on specific income thresholds for individuals and families.

In the Netherlands, heating specialists warn that the start of the heating season often leads to boiler failures, especially in older or poorly maintained units. Data from the Toelatingsorganisatie Kwaliteitsborging Bouw (TloKB) indicates that approximately 30% of boilers in the Netherlands may not be regularly maintained, potentially posing health risks such as carbon monoxide poisoning. Since April 2023, Dutch law requires that only certified installation companies perform work on central heating boilers.