When Do You Need a Boiler Replacement?

Your boiler is the engine of your home. Like a car, it needs tender love and care to keep it running smoothly and in a safe condition. However, just as there comes a time when your prized vehicle eventually needs replacing, the same can be said for your boiler.

On top of giving your boiler its own ‘MOT’ by ensuring an annual service is carried out, there are warning signs you need to be aware of that may mean it’s time for a boiler replacement.

Frequent breakdowns: If you’re calling out an engineer for more than the annual service and your boiler still struggles to generate hot water and heating, it may be time to invest in a new one.

Blue flame is yellow or orange: Your boiler flame should be blue. If it’s turned to orange or yellow, an urgent service is needed by an engineer, as it could be a dangerous carbon monoxide problem.

Replacement parts in short supply: If your engineer is struggling to find parts for your boiler and there are high costs due to its age, then it may be time to consider a replacement which could be a financially savvy decision in the long run.

Boiler leaks: Water should never leak from your boiler. If it does, switch it off at the mains because we all know electricity and water don’t mix. An engineer will be able to advise if a replacement is needed.

Noisy boiler or radiators: A new purchase may be in order if an engineer cannot stop any rattling, banging, or gurgling noises coming from your boiler or radiators.

Old age: If your boiler is over 10 years old, general guidance suggests it should be replaced.

Not energy efficient: Boilers are rated A to G, with A-rated systems the most energy-efficient. Less efficient boilers will not only cost you extra money in heating bills, but they are also not as good for the planet.

Making the Most of a Boiler Replacement

If you’re not a heating or boiler expert, having your boiler replaced – including choosing the right model and the right engineer – can be quite an overwhelming process. Here are some factors that you should consider to ensure this vital necessity is perfect for your home and efficiently achieves your heating requirements.

Boiler type: Consider which of the three main types of boiler types suits your needs before purchasing:

• Combi boilder: Doesn’t require a storage tank and is flexible in heating water according to your preference. The most installed type of boiler in the UK today is recommended for small to medium-sized homes that may use less hot water than larger and more occupied ones.
• Conventional boiler: Traditional systems found in the UK and known as ‘heat only’ boilers in the industry. Requires both a cold-water storage tank and a hot water storage tank and stores hot water to be used later. Used in homes with many bathrooms and showers, where there’s high demand for heating and hot water.
• System boiler: Able to provide a constant hot water supply throughout the home and caters to high demand. It doesn’t take much space and doesn’t require a storage tank in the roof space.

Size and dimensions: All boiler types come in different shapes and sizes, so think about where your new system will live. Many homeowners decide to relocate their new boiler for reasons such as noise, renovation, or to improve their home interior. Go smaller if not many people live in the household because you’ll benefit from the extra space.

Check the warranty: Terms and length of a boiler warranty will vary depending on both the manufacturer and model. The warranty of some boilers can be extended when installed by a heating engineer certified by the manufacturer. It’s always worth asking your engineer about the warranties they can offer.

Power flush: If your system is old, a power flush may be required. A power flush cleanses the central heating system to remove rust, sludge or debris built over time. This makes your heating system more efficient before you go full steam ahead with a replacement. But consider whether this is just a stop gap ahead of a future swap.

Newer pipework or radiators: You may have old pipework or radiators that are no longer suitable for the new boiler. It’s best to ask the engineer to check your mains and radiators before the boiler installation and carry out an upgrade if needed.

Innovative technology:  There’s now a fantastic suite of modern add-ons and extras out there that could help improve your boiler’s efficiency and bring your overall energy costs down, such as smart thermostats, modulating room controller or thermostatic radiator valves. Speak to your boiler engineer about the options available to ensure your new system is as efficient as possible.

Contact Your Local Boiler Replacement Expert

If you need advice on whether you need a new boiler to power your home, contact Metro Plumb. Our highly trained plumbers are here to provide you with the highest quality boiler service and repairs and will be able to identify when your boiler needs replacing.

A friendly, professional Metro Plumb engineer is always nearby and available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year.

Find your local Metro Plumb by visiting our find a local plumber page.