One of the biggest questions is whether or not you should repair it, if your boiler starts acting funny. Getting a repair can seem like the more affordable choice, but they soon stack up for older models and no one wants an unreliable boiler in winter. So, how to choose which one to go for?
1) Boilers age
Most boilers are designed to last 10–15 years, assuming they have been serviced on a regular schedule as well. Anything under 8–10 years old, a repair is almost always cost effective (especially considering that you have maintained it this far). Once it gets over 12–15 years old, replacement makes more sense because parts can be tough to source and efficiency is typically lower.
2) How often does it break down?
A single fault doesn’t always mean you require a new boiler. But, having 12 items repaired in the last year or so means you are throwing away money on band-aid solutions and not actually fixing the cause. More breakdowns = more days without heating or hot water.
Many long-time home owners simply follow one basic rule: if you’re calling an engineer out more than once a year then it’s time to seriously consider getting a replacement. For Tewkesbury Boilers, contact combi-man.com/boiler-finance/boiler-finance-tewkesbury/
3) Price of Repair against a Replacement
Request a written quote and compare it to the calculation of a new boiler. For minor repairs, it’s generally worth it to do. If they are particularly expensive to replace, especially heat exchanger components, you might be best off having a new boiler!
4) Efficiency and Operating costs
Outdated boilers just aren’t as efficient, and that means higher gas bills for the very same level of comfort. This is why a new boiler, if it is well-sized and supported by good controls can make all the difference in performance. Savings differ by home, but the real reward tends to be more about dependability and reliability of heat.
5) Warranty and peace of mind, looking into the future
Most new boilers will come with a manufacturer warranty that lasts typically from between 2-6 years , although in some rare cases this can be extended up to around ten. That can help you avoid surprise bills and keep your peace of mind during the colder months. Replacement will relieve a good deal of stress if your current boiler is no longer under warranty, and parts are starting to feel the squeeze!
6) Consider your home’s needs
If your household has changed – extra bathrooms, higher output hot water demand or an extension then you might find that you currently have the wrong size and type of boiler. A new installation is an opportunity to go with a system that fits your current lifestyle.
Repair starts to sound sensible if the boiler is reasonably new, the fault minor and it has been reliable. It is logical to replace an old boiler in the case of regular or expensive repair, when you want long-term reliability.