The boiler is an essential part of your home’s heating system. When it breaks down, your first thought is probably to get it repaired.
But in many cases, it can be more economical in the long term to replace it altogether.
The decision to repair or replace will be based on a few factors. This blog will help you decide whether your old boiler needs replacement or not:
How old is your boiler?
If your boiler is over 15 years old, it’s time to consider replacing it. Boilers are not designed to last forever, and as they get older, they are more likely to experience problems such as leaks and other issues stemming from general wear and tear. You will also find that as time goes on, parts for your older boiler will become harder to find and more expensive to purchase, meaning the repair cost could come close to or even exceed the cost of replacement.
Have you repaired your boiler before?
Consider how often you need to repair your boiler. If this isn’t the first time you’ve had to have repairs, this could be an indication that it’s time for a full replacement. Repairs can be expensive and frequent repairs can add up over time, sometimes making replacement a more economical option in the long run. You cannot predict how often you will need to repair an ageing boiler, however, with a new model, you will have the reassurance that it will last for many years to come.
What is your boiler’s energy rating?
In addition to the increased risk of breakdowns, older boilers tend not to be as efficient as their newer counterparts. Boiler technology continually evolves, and today’s boilers are much more efficient than older models. If you’ve had your boiler for over ten years, it likely has an old-fashioned rating of no more than 80% efficiency. This means that 20% of the fuel you use goes up in smoke (literally). By upgrading to a more energy-efficient model, you can make significant savings on your energy bills, which may well offset the price of installing the new boiler.
Is your boiler still under warranty?
Most boilers come with warranties between 10-12 years. If your boiler is still under warranty, repair should always be the first port of call, as any issues you are experiencing may be covered under warranty. Warranty lengths are usually based on the average life expectancy of the boiler, so if something breaks during the warranty period (other than wear and tear), it could be covered. It’s always worth getting a quote from an engineer, if a repair isn’t covered under warranty, you can then compare prices and look at the different options available to you. If the cost of repairing your boiler is more than 50% of buying a new one, then it may be worth considering replacement as an option.
Next steps
If you’re not sure when to replace your boiler, it’s always a good idea to talk to a qualified heating engineer in your local area. They will be able to advise you on the best way forward for your home and give you an estimate of how much it would cost if they were to replace the boiler.
Prime Time Boilers specialises in A-rated energy-efficient boiler installations and replacements. We pride ourselves on excellent customer care and skilled workmanship, providing our customers with the most modern, technically advanced and energy-efficient heating systems on the market with warranties that offer peace of mind for years to come. If you think it is time to replace your old boiler, contact us on (landline) or 01992 238 002 (mobile) to find out what options are available.
Prime time boilers is an Essex-based company providing boiler installation across the South of England, including Greater London, Berkshire, Cambridgeshire, Kent and beyond.
Yesterday 
