When your boiler or radiator system needs to be replaced. It’s been a blog theme recently, that now is the time for a heating system checkup. Today, we want to talk specifically about your home boiler and radiator system. A maintenance checkup or inspection is always a great way to dive into these systems! Not to mention, a great way to make sure that they are in good shape. Lord knows that losing heat as the weather changes is one of the last things that you want to deal with! Maybe you’ve missed a few regular annual boiler/radiator inspections. Below are some signs that your boiler or radiator system needs to be replaced.
Age
Newer condensing boilers haven’t been on the market for a long time and therefore it is hard to predict their longevity. With proper maintenance, they are expected to last at least 15 years or longer. Cast iron boilers should be considered for replacement if they have been operating for more than 20 or 30 years. Some of them can last even up to 50 years or longer.
Related Energy Expenditures
Be mindful of any increases in energy expenses, not only due to your monthly bills, but also due to increasing boiler maintenance costs. If a boiler requires constant servicing, the system has likely become less efficient. One should consider upgrading to a more reliable, durable boiler such as a cast iron unit. Additionally, a noisy unit may also be a sign that it’s time for an upgrade.
Increased Frequency of Failures
This is a clear indicator for one of two things. The first is that the unit is due for a major overhaul. Or it could mean that your boiler or radiator system needs to be replaced.
Discoloration
Yellow flames on gas burners (and black soot on oil boilers) indicate that the fuel is not burning properly and is creating carbon monoxide. Home owners should install carbon monoxide detectors. They should also look to have the system checked out as soon as possible.
Leaks
A boiler that leaks or requires additional make-up water could be nearing the end of its lifecycle. If your boiler or radiator system needs to be replaced, that could actually be a good thing. As by replacing the existing unit, you can avoid the possibility of a costly flood and even property damage.
Comfort
If you notice that some rooms in your home are too hot or too cold or have varying temperatures throughout the day, it’s possible that your boiler unit and/or its controls might no longer be effective.
Maybe your boiler or radiator system needs to be replaced. Or maybe it doesn’t need replaced now, but will in the near future. Upgrading to a newer system can offer significant benefits. Planning for the change is much better than facing an emergency in the throes of winter.
Boiler or Radiator System Needs to be Replaced: Fixing it on Your Own?
In short, this could be a complex process, and most likely should be left to a professional like Proudfoot. However, should you choose to pursue this endeavor on your own, you might want to first go the website shown below on troubleshooting/repairing a hot water boiler:
Whatever the problem is, if you’re looking to try to repair it yourself, start by looking into the simplest of procedures. All it takes most times is patience and common sense.
Remember, You can Always Rely on Us!
And to keep your heating system in good shape; you should have it professionally serviced at least once a year. And, as you know, the best time to have your home heating system serviced is right now, in the latter part of summer. At Proudfoot, we’re always ready to help! So what does one look for in a service provider when your boiler or radiator system needs to be replaced? As your service provider, we here at Proudfoot will always attempt to fully understand your needs. Click here to contact us today!
