10 Signs Your Boiler Needs Replacing
Boiler Groups top tips:
Our engineers have comprised a list that they feel is easy for you to tell if your current boiler is due for an upgrade.
Age:
If your boiler is 10-15 years old, it may be time to consider having a replacement boiler. Even if it is still working. Older boilers can be a lot less efficient and more prone to breakdowns in the future.
New Boiler – 90%+ Efficiency Rating
10+ Years Old – 85% Efficiency Rating
15 Years Old – 80% Efficiency Rating
20+ Years Old – 70% Efficiency Rating
Constant Repairs:
If you find yourself constantly calling a technician to fix your boiler, you must think is it worth this much of an expense to replace this part when I could get a new more efficient boiler which is a bit more expensive, but it may be more cost-effective in the long run to replace it.
Boiler Group Advice – Don’t spend over a quarter on repairs of what you would spend on a boiler installation price as it would not be cost effective, this is only once your warranty Is expired or invalid.
High Energy Bills:
Older Boilers can be less energy-efficient, which can lead to higher energy bills. If you notice an increase in your energy costs, it could be a sign that your boiler needs to be replaced.
If your Boiler is aged over 10 years old, we would recommend you have a think about replacement.
Uneven Heating:
If you notice that some areas of your home are warmer or colder than others, it could be a sign that your boiler is struggling to distribute the heat evenly.
If you have a conventional boiler, this could also mean that the pump is not circulating properly, or your motorised valves could be stuck. If these problems are happening with a conventional system, it may even be the correct time to convert to a combi system as when you changeover the boiler to a combi you do not need the pumps, motorised valves, cylinder, or tanks. This can also be more efficient and cost-effective route to go.
Strange noises:
If your boiler is making unusual noises, such as banging or whistling, it could be a sign of a more serious problem.
If your boiler is:
Banging – This can be a blockage in the heat exchange, pipework and other.
Whistling – Can be caused by thermostatic radiator valves or air in the system.
If this does occur, please call an engineer who can help.
Water Leaking:
If you notice water leaking from your boiler, it’s important to address the issue immediately. Leaks can be a sign of a problem such as a cracked heat exchanger, manifolds split, or minor leaks from parts of the boiler.
Rust or Corrosion:
If you notice rust or corrosion on your boiler, it could be a sign of a larger issue. Rust can weaken the metal components of your boiler, leading to leaks or other problems.
Yellow Flame:
Most boilers made in the last 10 years you will not be able to tell what colour the flame is as they are mainly controlled by a light on the front of your boiler.
If this is the circumstance, you will have to call a qualified engineer to come and have a look as he would have to open the boiler casing. But if your boiler flame is yellow rather than blue, this could be a sign of the boiler not burning fuel efficiently.
Carbon Monoxide Detector:
If you have a carbon monoxide detector and it goes off, its important that you shut the boiler off immediately and call a qualified technician. Carbon Monoxide is a colourless, doerless gas that is deadly. Also, on a lot of these circumstances it can leave black marks above your boiler or even on your boiler casing.
Signs of a carbon monoxide leak are:
- Headaches – One of the more common symptoms off a carbon monoxide leak. This leads to carbon monoxide poising which is very dangerous.
- Nausea – Nausea or vomiting is another sign of carbon monoxide poisoning, if you feel sick or queasy and it seems to go away when you leave your home this could be a sign on a carbon monoxide leak.
- Dizziness – Dizziness or light headedness, this can make it difficult to stand or walk. If you are feeling unsteady in a certain room or off balance this may be a sign of a carbon monoxide leak.
- Confusion: Carbon monoxide can also cause confusion or disorientation. If you have trouble thinking clearly or remembering things this is a sign.
- Breathing difficulties: Can cause breathing difficulties, particularly if you have an underlying respiratory condition. If you feel short of breath or have trouble breathing this is a big sign of carbon monoxide.
- Yellow or Orange Flame: If you have a gas appliance, such as a stove or furnace and you notice that the flame is yellow or orange instead of a healthy blue flame, it could be that the appliance is not working properly and leaking carbon monoxide.
- Sooty stains: If you notice sooty black stains around your gas appliance or on the walls, ceiling external wall of where the flue comes out this is a big indicator that you have a carbon monoxide leak.
Safety Concerns:
If you have any concerns about the safety of your boiler, such as a cracked heat exchanger or leaking gas, its important to address the issue immediately. Your safety should always be your top priority.
ACT NOW:
If you suspect that you have a carbon monoxide leak, it’s very important that you get out of your home immediately and call a qualified technician. Carbon monoxide poisoning can be fatal and it more common than heard off. So, it is very important that you take any signs of a leak seriously.
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More Help & Advice :
If you would like some further help. Please don’t hesitate to contact one of our dedicated staff members, they will give you the best advice they possibly can to help.
