Making the right decision about whether to repair or replace your boiler is crucial to ensuring you have an efficient, cost-effective heating system. This article aims to provide you with a thorough understanding of the factors to consider when faced with this dilemma.
When to Repair Your Boiler
Reliability and Age of Your Boiler
Older boilers, particularly those over 10 years old, may still be reliable and easy to repair. However, they are likely to be less efficient than modern boilers. When deciding whether to repair or replace your boiler, it’s essential to consider not just its reliability, but also its efficiency.
Availability of Replacement Parts
Some boiler parts may become unavailable or obsolete as manufacturers discontinue production. However, many essential components, such as gas valves, fans, printed circuit boards (PCBs), diverter valves, and heat exchangers, continue to be produced for an extended period. To verify the availability of replacement parts for your boiler, contact the manufacturer’s technical helpline or search for the parts online.
Reasons to Consider Boiler Replacement
Improved Efficiency
Modern condensing boilers have factory-tested efficiencies of 89% or more. However, to achieve these high levels of efficiency, it’s crucial to correctly size your boiler and pair it with a compatible modulating control.
Recouping the Cost of a New Boiler
Consider the potential savings on energy bills and reduced repair costs under a new boiler warranty. If you could save £200 per year on energy bills and avoid repair costs, you may recoup the cost of a new boiler in just a few years.
Environmental Impact
While retaining an older, less efficient boiler may seem less environmentally friendly, the environmental cost of manufacturing a new boiler should also be considered. A well-maintained older boiler may have a lower environmental impact than the production of a new model.
Options for Extending the Life of Your Boiler
If you have valid reasons for keeping your existing boiler, such as upcoming home improvements, financial constraints, or an impending move, consider the following options to extend its life:
- Boiler Service: Boiler service can provide peace of mind and minimise future repair costs.
- Research and source replacement parts: Familiarize yourself with the main components of your boiler that may need replacement, such as gas valves, fans, PCBs, diverter valves, and heat exchangers. Research their availability online or through your manufacturer’s technical helpline
By understanding the factors that influence the decision between repairing or replacing your boiler, you can make an informed choice that will lead to an efficient, cost-effective heating system for your home.
