Category: Boilers

Why Service a Boiler?

Do you service your boiler every year?  You might be wondering if a service is worth the money; especially if your boiler isn’t that old.

Maintain the Manufacturer’s Warranty

Have you read the details of your manufacturer’s warranty?  Generally, for a warranty to remain valid you need to be taking reasonable measures to look after your boiler.  Most manufacturers would recommend or require at least one yearly service; often manufacturers will require you to have your first service within 12 months of installation.

Reduce the chance of breakdowns

When your boiler is serviced by a heating professional it is less likely to suddenly break down on you.  Maintaining the system will help to keep the internal components of your boiler working smoothly for longer.  Small problems can be identified early and any boiler repairs will likely be cheaper than if they were left to escalate.

Safety for you and your family

A faulty boiler can be a serious risk to you and your family if it starts leaking carbon monoxide.  While this is rare it is even less so when you have a yearly service.  A full inspection from a heating professional tells you that your boiler is in good health and safe; it is not a guarantee but it can help to spot the early warning signs that could otherwise escelate into a carbon monoxide leak.

Regular servicing ensures the boiler is combusting fuel safely and efficiently; reducing the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Save money on heating bills and repairs

A yearly service can be seen as an added expense, but it could actually help to keep costs down in the long-term.  Suddenly having a boiler break down on you can be more expensive than a

Over time unmaintained boilers can become less efficient.  One cause is the build-up of scale which causes the unit to work harder.  Having your boiler serviced can help to keep everything operating smoothly and efficiently – potentially reducing your energy bills.

Peace of mind

Ultimately a regular boiler service gives you peace of mind that your system is working safely, efficiently and isn’t likely to suddenly cause a problem – which can be pretty stressful at times.

Is it time to service your boiler? If you live in the Berlin, CT, New Britain or Hartford County area give Riley Pluming Company a call: 860-225-1534

When Should You Replace Your Boiler?

No one wants to be left with a broken down boiler and an emergency call out to a heating contractor. Many homeowners would prefer the peace of mind that they’ll always have heating and warm water, rather than an old unit that could break down at any point.

If your boiler is nearing the end of it’s lifespan you might consider replacing it for a newer, more reliable model,. Far better to pre-empt any potential problems. But is it necessary? When should you replace your boiler?

 

What does Energy Star say?

According to government backed Energy Star, you should consider replacing your boiler after 15 years.  But notice the key word here is to consider.

There are no definitive rules when it comes to replacing your boiler.  Generally most modern units should last at least 15 years – if not longer.  With regular maintenance such as a yearly service, a good quality model can last much longer.

Do modern boilers last longer?

Sadly as is true for most things in life, quality is not what it used to be.  Things aren’t made to last as long as they once were in our throwaway society.  A well-made, efficient model may last you a little longer, but on the whole 10-15 years has been about the average for the past some decades, and continues to be the average, but don’t base your decision on age alone.

 

Consider condition over age

Age is not the only way to determine when you should replace your boiler.  It’s more important to consider it’s condition as well.

Typical signs that it’s time for a boiler replacement include:

• Frequent breakdowns
• Unexplained increase in fuel bills
• Taking longer to heat up
• Difficulty in replacing parts

 

Frequent breakdowns

Occasional breakdowns do not mean you need to replace your boiler at all.  If you are finding however that you need to call out a contractor more than once a year, then you may want to consider the cost of these call-outs and repairs in the long-term over the costs of a replacement.  If the boiler is going to breakdown beyond repair in a year or two, it may be more economical to replace it now and avoid the expense of future repairs.

 

Unexplained increase in fuel bills

Consistently higher fuel bills can be caused by a boiler that is no longer operating at optimum efficiency.  If it’s old then you may want to consider a more modern, energy efficient model.

 

Taking longer to heat up

Water taking longer to heat up?  Are you getting cold while you wait for your rooms to heat which is taking longer than normal?  You might also notice that the room (s) closest to the boiler are warmer than the rest of the house.

A boiler that is slow to operate can mean that it’s approaching the end of it’s days.   You can consult a professional to determine whether a repair or replacement is most appropriate in this situation.

 

Replace in the summer

If you decide to go ahead with a new boiler installation, a good time to do it is in the summer months when you’re not dependant on your heating.  Avoid the stress and additional costs of rushing to get your boiler swapped out when the weather turns cold and do it in the off-season.

 

Ask your local boiler service company

While it’s possible for homeowners to have some idea as to the condition of their boiler, the best advice will always come from a trained professional.  If you’re not sure whether to go for a boiler repair or replacement, speak to your local heating company.

Riley Plumbing and Heating company service all types of boilers across New Britain, Berlin and the rest of Hartford County CT.