HOW LONG SHOULD MY BOILER LAST?

The quick answer is that, on average, a boiler will last between 10 and 15 years. But this will depend on various factors, including your usage, the type of boiler you have, water quality, and level of maintenance. With the right level of care, a boiler could last up to 20 years.

It’s easy to take your boiler for granted and only really worry when you have no hot water or the heating fails to come on in the Autumn. So, what elements can affect the lifespan of your boiler?

Three key factors that affect your boiler’s lifespan

1. The type of boiler 
   Different boilers have varying lifespans because of the design and components that can influence their durability. For example, a combi boiler may last between 10 and 12 years, while a conventional boiler could last 15 years or more. A qualified heating engineer can advise you on the best option for your needs.
   
   
2. Regular maintenance
   Regular servicing will identify minor issues before they become bigger and more expensive to fix. The checks undertaken include identifying leaks, ensuring correct pressure, and cleaning components. Boilers serviced by qualified heating engineers tend to last longer. 
   
   
3. Usage and water quality
   Boilers in homes with high hot water demand or those running constantly during the cold months may wear out faster than those in homes with lower demand. Equally, limescale can build up and reduce boiler efficiency in areas with hard water. Installing a water softener can help combat this problem. 

Looking out for these signs can help you when your boiler has an issue or is nearing the end of its life.

Danger signs for the lifespan of your boiler

• When you hear unusual noises coming from your boiler, you may have a problem. These could be banging, clunking or whining, indicating additional pressure being placed on some internal parts, which can be down to wear and tear.
  
  
• You may see signs of leaking or dripping in and around your boiler. Often, this can indicate corrosion or pressure issues, which means your boiler is not running as it should.
  
  
• Maybe you need to call a heating engineer for frequent breakdowns. It is not an ideal situation, and it is often inconvenient. It shows your boiler is struggling and may need a service or replacement.
  
  
• You have increased energy bills. An old or inefficient boiler must work harder to maintain output, meaning higher energy usage.
  
  
• Reduced efficiency. Your boiler is not heating your home or water as effectively as it once did, indicating you have an issue.

Before you get to the stage of experiencing any of these danger signs, there are other ways you can extend the lifespan of your boiler. These are relatively easy to take up, and if you work with a qualified heating engineer, they will be happy to help.

How to extend the lifespan of your boiler

Schedule an annual service with a Gas Safe registered engineer to ensure your boiler lasts as long as possible. Companies such as Fix First Heating offer maintenance packages, which means you can spread the cost of servicing over a year through low-cost monthly payments. It also gives you peace of mind knowing if there is an issue during the year, they will schedule a visit and fix it for you.

Checking your pressure levels on the boiler will help you identify any issues as early as possible. Ask your heating engineer to show you how to do this. Fix First Heating is always happy to do this. Once you know where to look, it’s a relatively easy job. 

Over time, boilers accumulate sludge and debris in the system. If this happens, it can be detrimental to the efficiency of your boiler and, over time, will bring the system to a standstill. Installing a magnet filter is a straightforward way to reduce the build-up of unwanted particles. 

Living in a hard water area can also cause issues with your boiler. Limescale can be deposited in the system and have a similar effect. A water softener will reduce this kind of debris.

Finally, boilers have pipework, which can freeze in the cold winter months. Insulating your pipes can prevent freezing and potentially the damage this can cause. Not least, it can keep your boiler working when you need it most!

When should I consider replacing my boiler?

Sometimes, it just isn’t possible to continue repairing an old boiler. Regular maintenance will extend its life, but most homeowners opt for a replacement after about 15 years. The newer models are very energy efficient, meaning you would save on your energy bills, and the performance would be much more reliable. So, if your boiler breaks down frequently, appears less efficient, or is over 15 years old, investing in a new one may be more cost-effective. 

With the right level of maintenance in place, your boiler can last up to 20 years. Regular servicing and dealing with any minor issues promptly can help ensure your boiler runs efficiently for as long as possible. 

If you’re unsure about the condition of your boiler or worried about breakdowns, get in touch with Fix First Heating. We offer a range of services that will give you peace of mind.