When people are shopping for heating systems to install in a new house, one of the points of comparison they make between different models is their estimated service life. In this column, the boiler has a large advantage over the gas furnace, electric furnace, or heat pump. A boiler usually outlasts any of these other heaters.
But a boiler can’t run forever. Once you’ve gotten a good number of years of warmth from your home’s boiler and it’s more than repaid its initial investment, you should consider having it replaced. There are a number of ways to tell that you have a boiler that’s ready for a retirement; we recommend you call on HVAC professionals to help you with the choice if you’re uncertain if your boiler can go for a few more years or not.
Basic system age
The first question to ask when it comes to boiler replacement is: “How long has the boiler been in service?” The average lifespan of a gas boiler is between 15 and 20 years, and electric boilers may last a few years longer. We recommend replacing a boiler that’s older than 20 years. At that age, any boiler has a higher risk of failure, excessive repairs, and power drain that don’t make it worth keeping. The boiler may still seem to be working the way you need it to, but that can change in a flash.
Corrosion
One of the big warning signs of a boiler that’s ready to be scrapped is rust and other types of corrosion. Modern manufacturers design boiler systems to resist corrosion for many years. As long as the boilers receive annual maintenance from professionals, corrosion shouldn’t have a chance to take hold. But leaks and broken valves allowing in air, or the reaction between the burners and the heat exchanger, can eventually create corrosion. When this happens, it’s best to have a new boiler installed.
Leaks
A boiler that has worn down too much with age is prone to developing leaks at valves and connection points. The moment you see water pooling around the boiler, call for repairs to see what’s causing it. The technician can give you an informed opinion on whether you need to have a replacement system or if the heater can be repaired.
High energy bills
A boiler that’s raising the cost to heat your home each winter isn’t one you want to keep around. Small price jumps early in the system’s life can often be fixed. But if the boiler’s already past that 15-year milestone, escalating costs mean the system has deteriorated too far. Starting with a new, higher efficiency boiler system helps you begin saving money right away—and equips you with a heater that should be free of trouble for many years.
For the best replacement service for a boiler, call on the Warsaw, IN, heating company with more than thirty years of history behind it. We not only work with boilers, but also furnaces, heat pumps, ductless heating, and energy-saving geothermal systems. Our technicians are NATE-certified to see you receive the best work on each job.
Collier’s Heating & Air Conditioning: For over 30 years, a company you’ve grown to trust!
