Do I Need Boiler Repair or Replacement?
A good boiler should last you around 15 years.
Even the best boilers have a lifespan. Eventually, your boiler will either become too inefficient to be cost-effective or will pack up altogether.
If you have a problem with your boiler, it doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll need a new one, however. It may be that a boiler repair will keep it working for another few years.
Read on as we take a look at some of the signs that you need a boiler repair or replacement.
Your Boiler Is Getting Old
As we’ve already mentioned, a boiler should last you about 15 years. If your boiler is this age or even older, then you need to seriously start thinking about getting a replacement.
You may feel that it’s overkill to replace a boiler that is still doing the job of heating your home. This issue isn’t whether it can do the job or not, but how efficiently it can do it. As boilers age, they inevitably become less efficient. This means not only do they have to work harder to heat your home, but they also cost you more money to do so.
If your boiler is getting old, you might be better off with a new one.
Your Energy Bill Is Going Up
A sure sign that your boiler isn’t working as efficiently as it used to is an increase in the size of your energy bill.
If you notice an increase in your bills and you haven’t made any other changes, such as cranking up the thermostat on a regular basis, then the most likely cause is that your boiler is becoming less efficient.
Your boiler is taking longer to get your water up to the right temperature. This means it’s using more energy to do so, and this will translate into a higher bill. If you notice this, it’s time to call the plumber.
Your Radiators Take Ages to Get Warm
Probably the most common tool for searching for any information these days is a search engine such as Google, simply entering your search criteria, e.g. plumber in Aylesbury will return you a number of local firms offering you the service you are looking for.
Because this is not coming from a personal recommendation or been vetted by an impartial 3rd party, you would be well advised to carry out some of your own checks (see below).
If the plumber has a website is a good place to start to understand how they work, get an idea of prices, quotes, timing of payment and any accreditations they may hold.
An online search is often the best way to find a 24hr plumber in an emergency when there may not be time to seek the advice from friends. You need to ensure your search specifies emergency plumbers Aylesbury for a 24 hour service.
Your Boiler Is Leaking
A leaking boiler is never a good thing.
Not only is it a sure sign that there’s a problem with your boiler, but it can also cause havoc with your home. That water will usually find it’s way to your floor, and cause serious damage to your carpet, laminate or hardwood flooring.
Any water that collects in your boiler is also likely to cause rust or corrosion to components, meaning that you’re more likely to have further issues with your boiler. On top of that, you’ll be wasting water.
If you see a leak, call a plumber straight away before the problem gets worse.
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Your Boiler Smells
A leak is a clear visual sign that you have a problem with your boiler, but your eyes aren’t your only tool for discovering a problem.
If you detect a strange odour coming from your boiler, then you need to get it checked immediately. A smell coming from a boiler is an indication of a leak of some kind.
Carbon monoxide may be odourless, but a funny smell from the boiler indicates that it isn’t burning correctly. This may mean that carbon monoxide is being released as well as whatever is making the smell.
You shouldn’t take any chances: call the emergency gas line on 0800 111999 straight away. You should also evacuate your home until you have been told that it is safe to reenter.
We would always recommend installing a carbon monoxide detector in the same room as your boiler.
Your Boiler Is Making Strange Noises
As we have already mentioned, not every boiler problem means you need to get a new boiler.
But if your boiler is needing regular repairs, then this is a sure sign that it’s past its best. At some point, the cost of the repairs is going to outweigh the cost of replacing your boiler with a brand new, energy-efficient one.
If you’re on first name terms with your plumber having called them out so many times, it may be time to consider biting the bullet and getting a new boiler that will hopefully see you through the next 15 years or more.
Are You Looking for High-Quality Boiler Repair Services?
If you’re looking for a boiler repair from a reputable company with more than 20 years of experience then you’re in the right place.
Three Counties Plumbing and Heating is a family run business that takes great pride in offering first-class customer service at a competitive rate. We are Gas Safe registered and offer boiler installation, repairs, and servicing. We also provide bathroom design and installation services, as well as a 24-hour fast emergency call-out service.
If you would like to find out more about our services then please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
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