Boilers typically have a maximum lifespan of 15 years. That means you should consider replacing it with a newer, more energy-efficient, and safer model when it’s more than 10 years old. As you will see, replacing your old boiler with a condensing combi boiler can save up to 30% on your home’s central heating bills.
Efficient boilers are also more environmentally friendly due to lower carbon emissions. To keep your boiler running efficiently and prolong its life, it’s important to understand how it works and when there are issues to fix. Here are some tips.
Service Your Boiler Regularly
Most boilers have a service schedule that guides you on when to call a boiler maintenance Derry NH expert. The service ensures your boiler is efficient and safe to use. However, you can save money in service fees by maintaining your boiler as recommended.
Since the service includes an inspection of all the parts, you can uncover problems before they escalate and become more dangerous and expensive to fix. Typical service for gas and oil boilers includes:
- Cleaning the boiler flue and combustion chamber
- Checking pressure safety valves, including washing out the sediment
- Cleaning the water and heating circuits
- Inspecting the fan and motor, including flue damper operation, draft regulator and induced draft blower
- Checking the heat exchanger
- Inspecting the controls
Replacing Filters
Most boilers have a water filter that removes sediment from the water. The filter prevents the sediment from getting into your boiler and blocking the heat exchanger. Cleaning the filter is one way to ensure that your boiler continues to run efficiently.
Clean the filters at least once a year and more often if you experience problems such as high fuel bills, low heating capacity, or yellow flame. Also, ensure the filters are securely attached to keep water from dripping into your boiler.
Bleed the Radiators
Air gets into the heating system and sometimes ends up in the radiator. Regularly bleeding the radiator ensures that no air is trapped inside. This allows the boiler to heat more efficiently and reduces fuel bills.
To know if your radiator needs bleeding, check if there are cold patches on the and a warmer bottom. Bleeding is a simple process that should take no longer than 15 minutes. If you’re unsure how to go about it, let a professional do it for you.
Get an Appropriate Size Boiler
When replacing the boiler, always ensure you get an appropriately sized model. An oversized boiler will consume more energy than necessary to heat your home. This will lead to increased fuel bills and a shortened lifespan. An undersized boiler will heat your home inefficiently, leading to cold spots.
Appropriate sizing also ensures you get a model suitable for your household energy requirements. If you have a vast home, consider getting multiple boilers. If you have a small house, invest in a combi boiler that supplies hot water and central heating, saving you space.
Have a Summer Setting
A summer setting is not the same as having a programmable thermostat. When your thermostat is set on ‘heat,’ it will continually warm your home. The summer setting allows you to keep the heating off while still having hot water, saving fuel, and lowering your carbon footprint.
Additionally, if you connect your combi boiler to a circuit with multiple outlets, be careful not to overload it. Doing so can reduce the power supply and lead to overheating, shortening its lifespan. Ensure the power cables are the recommended size and that each circuit has its own thermostat.
Use Professional Services
Professionals have the required skills, experience, and equipment to maintain and repair your boiler. They can detect issues fast, restore function, and prevent recurrences. They also offer timely services and clear explanations on how to avoid problems. As a result, they help prolong your unit’s lifespan.
Prolonging a Boilers Lifespan Leads to More Savings
Replacing a boiler can be expensive, but you can avoid it by simple, regular checks that prolong the unit’s lifespan. Understanding how it works, resolving minor problems early, and getting it serviced regularly can go a long way in keeping your boiler healthy for years to come.
