10 Signs for when it might be time for a new Boiler

10 Signs for when it might be time for a New Boiler

As with a lot of things in your home, there will come a time when it is time to replace your boiler. Most people find out the hard way when their boiler suddenly throws in the towel seemingly without any warning. However, there are a few telltale signs which we have detailed in this article to help you spot when your boiler is on the way out.

1. Your boiler is 10 years or older

A boiler can have a working lifespan of up to 10 years. Once your boiler is over 10 years old it might be time to consider a replacement. This can be the case even if your boiler has no major faults as boiler technology has moved on significantly in recent years and the older models are now left behind in terms of efficiency, safety controls, smart controls and options available on the market today

2. Boiler isn’t “A” Rated

If your boiler isn’t ‘A’ rated then you will be getting a lot less than 90% energy efficiency from your boiler. An ‘A’ rated boiler has an energy efficiency of more than or equal to 90%, whereas a ‘G’ grade boiler is usually running at 65% efficiency. This means you are wasting 30cent on every euro spent on your heating bill. Installation of an ‘A’ rated boiler can help you save up to €350 per year on heating bills.

3. Frequent Breakdowns

If your boiler is breaking down on a regular basis due to a drop in pressure or any other reason that may need an immediate fix then this is a sign that it might be a good idea to replace your boiler. Instead of spending your hard-earned money time and time again trying to keep your old boiler limping along, it can be a smart decision to upgrade to a new reliable model for your home. With manufacturer’s warranties today of up to 10 years on parts and labor it makes for even more of a safe investment.

4. Increase in Energy bills

Whilst it is always a good idea to switch energy suppliers when there is a better deal on offer, another reason for high energy bills could be down to your boiler losing efficiency with age. Older boilers have a lower efficiency rating compared to their modern counterparts but this can be even further decreased due to age and poor performance. If this is the case it is advisable to upgrade to the high-efficiency boiler for your home. This will immediately cut down on your energy bills. In addition, adding modern smart heating controls and zoning can decrease your energy bills by a further 10%

5. Noisy Boiler or Radiators

Maybe you’ve grown used to them, but the banging, gurgling and kettling noises coming from your boiler are not happy noises. They signal that something is wrong and, if ignored, can lead to damage and breakdown over time.

6. Yellow Flame

A healthy boiler should burn with a blue flame but if your boiler is burning a yellow flame then that is an issue. Yellow flames are a sign of carbon monoxide which is a serious issue. It is a dangerous, odorless and colorless gas. Excessive exposure to this gas is life-threatening. Symptoms of Carbon monoxide poisoning can cause nausea, headaches, dizziness, and fatigue. If you suspect carbon monoxide, it is advised to immediately turn off the appliance, Open all windows and doors to ventilate the property and call Gas Networks Ireland on 1850 20 5050.

7. Smelly Boiler

Although carbon monoxide is odourless, gas companies do add a scent to help you to identify when there is a gas leak. If you smell the eggy, sulphur smell of gas you need to open windows and vacate the premises as soon as possible and then contact Gas Networks Ireland on 1850 20 5050Unusual smells can also point to other faults in the boiler e.g. a metallic, electrical burning smell or even a smell like burning fabric. You need to contact an engineer to investigate the problem.

8. Replacement boiler parts are hard to find

If your heating engineer tells you that parts are hard to find, this is a sure sign that your boiler’s days are numbered. Manufacturers legally have to make parts available for a minimum of 10 years but after that, they either go obsolete or the cost of these parts can become quite expensive.

9. Leaks

A water leak from your boiler can be a serious problem it can cause significant damage to both your home and other parts of the boiler. It is advisable to call an engineer as soon as possible to avoid escalation and potential damage or danger due to your leaking boiler.

10. Just Not up to the Job!

It may sound obvious but it is amazing how long we would put up with a system that doesn’t work as well as it should.If your boiler is taking too long to kick into gear or the house never feels as warm as it should or there is never enough
hot water, then it's time to call out an engineer to investigate. If any of these problems sound familiar, then it might be time for a new boiler.