When should I get a new boiler fitted?

Thinking about getting a new boiler fitted? Not sure when is the right time to change your boiler? We look at why you might be thinking about boiler replacement and how to choose the best time to have it fitted.

How long does a boiler last?

Modern gas and oil boilers are extremely reliable and if properly looked after, you should be able to enjoy a good 10 - 15 years of working life. Naturally, ensuring your boiler is serviced annually by a manufacturer-approved engineer will help to get the best possible lifespan out of your boiler. The lifespan will also depend on factors such as the manufacturer, model and working conditions. If your existing boiler is already approaching this age, then it is well worth speaking to a reputable installer now and looking into the options for replacement, rather than waiting until it becomes an urgent necessity. If your boiler is ageing, the following section will give you some signs to look out for that may indicate a replacement boiler is imminent.

How do I know my boiler is due for replacement?

There are many signs that may indicate your boiler is due for replacement - many of which you can look out for before your boiler completely fails. These include:

• Regular boiler breakdowns and repairs
• High repair bills
• Unusual noises from the boiler
• System leaks
• Intermittent heating and hot-water
• Radiators taking too long to heat up
• Replacement parts are difficult to find or no longer manufactured

Although many boiler problems can be prepared, once your boiler gets to 10+ years of age, it may be simply more economical in the long run to invest in a new boiler. As well as eliminating the above problems, you may well actually save money on your heating bills due to the improved efficiency of newer models.

Will a new boiler save me money?

Although a new boiler is not guaranteed to save you money, thanks to advanced condensing technology which is now featured as standard in both gas and oil boilers, you may well find that you can save money due to the increased efficiency. You can also reduce your home’s environmental footprint.

How does condensing technology work?

Condensing technology means the boiler is able to capture and ‘recycle’ heat trapped in the flue gasses and use it to help heat the water inside the boiler. During this process, the temperature of the flue gas is reduced from around 130° to 50°. In older, non-condensing oil boilers, most of this energy was allowed to simply escape, meaning they were much less efficient and more expensive to run. As a result, new oil boilers are considerably more efficient and economical.

Which is the best time of year to have a new boiler fitted?

You can replace your boiler at any time of year, however as you rely on a combi boiler to keep your house warm, it is generally advisable to do this during summer if you wish to avoid the discomfort of not having heating while the work is being done. It is also worth bearing in mind that if your boiler is becoming unreliable, it is far more likely to fail during winter - leaving you out in the cold and out of pocket when the weather is at its worst.

If you have been told by a qualified engineer that your boiler is no longer safe to operate, then it is advised to replace your boiler immediately.

Not sure if you can afford to replace your boiler now? As a Worcester Bosch accredited installer, we have an attractive range of affordable boiler finance packages available, including 0% Interest and Buy Now Pay Later. You can also enjoy low monthly payments for up to 10 years with our Spread the Cost finance option.

I’m having an external boiler fitted - will the weather affect it?

If you’ve chosen to have an external oil boiler fitted, there is no reason to worry about the weather. The boiler itself is housed in an integrated all-weather housing that is designed to withstand the worst of the British weather. Here at D.R. Plumbing & Heating we also have all the equipment we need to stay safe and dry whatever the weather - so you can be sure that rain won’t stop play!

Book your free, no-obligation quotation today

To book a completely free, no-obligation quote for your new boiler, call D.R. Plumbing & Heating today. We offer both home visits throughout mid and north Wales, north Powys and the Shropshire borders, and in most cases can also offer video quotations where preferable. Call now on Wrexham 01978 291 923 or Mold 01352 620 125.