This time of year it's important to look into when you last had your boiler serviced. The last thing you want is it breaking down and you being left freezing cold and unable to heat up the home etc. Boilers don't have an expiration date, however they can last up to approximately 15 years. Over time you may start to notice that your boiler isn't working as well as it use to. Here are some of the signs to look out for that likely mean it's time to get a new boiler.
If you are noticing your energy bills rising it's a good chance that your boiler is getting old and ineffective. The constant starting and stopping means that it will take up more energy hence why your bills will rise. Boilers normally reach their maximum temperature very quickly. This means if your radiators are slow to heat up there is most likely a problem. If you are noticing either of these things and if after having an annual service you still have issues than this means looking for a new boiler is wise, just make sure you go for one with a ERP rating A for better energy efficiency.
Frequent breakdowns
If your boiler is have frequent breakdowns and your having to constantly get someone out to have a look at it, than it's time to get a new one. This will save you money on constant call outs and quick fixes. Getting a new boiler and installation by a professional maybe expensive but you'll save money in the long run.
Boiler keeps shutting off
Just like with frequent breakdowns when a boiler is in the habit of switching off, it is probably time to get a new one. However, to determine the cause, call a Gas Safe engineer to inspect the boiler. This could also be happening because of low pressure, a faulty thermostat or pump issue. In which case you may just need replace some parts rather than fork out for a whole new boiler.
Yellow flames/smells
When your boiler is burning a blue flame this means it is healthy. If there is a yellow flame and/or unusual smell that it can be dangerous as it's a sign of your boiler leaking carbon monoxide! This gas is colourless and odourless. It can even prove to be fatal. Call out an engineer ASAP to check for carbon monoxide leakage. If the leakage can't be fixed the engineer most likely will recommend you to get a new boiler.
Boiler keeps making noises
When your boiler is on it should make a light humming noise. This noise shouldn't bother you and be hardly noticeable. However if your boiler is making loud clunking and banging sounds than turn off your boiler immediately and call out an engineer. These sounds aren't normal and an engineer will be able to inspect and then fix any minor issues such as a broken valve. They will be able to tell you if your boiler is safe or not and will advise getting a replacement if needed. We actually had this happen back when we were renting and the sounds were pretty scary. The boiler in one place we lived in blew up in the night which was a very scary experience.
