How Do I Know When My Boiler Needs Replacing?
As the cold winter weather starts to bite that last thing you need is your boiler to breakdown in the winter months. If your boiler is over 15 years old it is near the end of its life and you may be ready for a new one. But how do you know the tell tail signs? Well below we list some of the signs of a boiler ageing the end of its life.
1. High Fuel Bills
If you feel a sudden rise in fuel bills this is a sure sign the boiler is struggling to function properly. A older poor functioning boiler will inevitably use more energy to reach full heating capacity, which will only get worse, thus your energy bills will be ever on the increase..
2. Losing Pressure
Could be low water pressure, a problem with the thermostat or a lack of water flow due to a closed valve, air or the pump not circulating the water in the system properly. We’ve covered each of these issues in more detail above, but if you still can’t identify the cause we recommend calling out a Gas Safe registered engineer to take a look at your boiler
3. Lack of water flow.
If the boiler keeps shutting off, it could be due to closed valves, air caught in the system or a broken pump. If there is enough air in the system to cause your boiler to switch itself off, it should be obvious when you start bleeding your radiators, as plenty of air will gush out of them
4. Frequent Repairs
Another obvious indication that your boiler could be on the brink of packing up is if you’re constantly having to repair it. It doesn’t matter if these are small, inexpensive repairs, it all adds up to time and money that could be better spent elsewhere and is likely to lead to more serious problems further down the line.
5. A leaking boiler
This is actually quite a serious problem, and indicates that an internal component such as a seal or valve is broken. The leak can lead to corrosion and rust, or can cause electric components within the boiler to short circuit. It could even cause problems throughout your house, including structural damage.
6. signs your boiler could be dangerous
The signs below are dangerous and mean your boiler should be switched off IMMEDIATELY.
- The smell of spent gas or fumes
- Any visible signs of scorching, sooting or black spillage marks (also applies to room-sealed appliances)
- The pilot light continually going out or a yellow flame
- The frequent feeling of headaches or nausea when the boiler is running
Answer: Install an A Rated Condensing Boiler a well-maintained boiler will burn fuel very efficiently, but they inevitably lose some heat in the hot gases that escape up the flue. A condensing boiler has a larger heat exchanger, so it recovers more heat, sends cooler gases up the flue and is more efficient. Older boilers can often be G rated or 50-70% efficient so by switching to a condensing boiler you should save money on your fuel bills.
Top Tips When Buying A Boiler?
1. Ensure you buy an A Rated Combi Boiler which can save you serious money on your gas bill
2. Add an intelligent Smart thermostat and save you further on your bill
3. Get a Power Flush to ensure your system is clean and will run more efficiently
4. TVR – added to your radiators for individual control
5. Ensure you buy a boiler with the longest warranty 10 years if possible
6. Make sure you keep up with your servicing so you don’t lose you warranty
7. If you need No Deposit Finance or a simple quotation enquire here
