To Replace or Not to Replace

Asking how long a gas boiler will last is quite the loaded question. The best way to answer it is by comparing the gas boiler to a car. Factors such as the age, type, and usage of the gas boiler will affect the answer. A lot of problems with gas boilers can be identified and fixed appropriately. What happens when the damage is too great though, and the problem cannot be fixed? When this is the case, a replacement or an upgraded gas boiler might be in order.

If you are choosing between fixing or replacing your gas boiler, ask these questions first:

  • How often do you have issues with your current boiler?
    • It is important to consider the frequency at which you are having to call a professional. All types of equipment and systems will need a repair and/or standard maintenance at one point or another, and the standard is to get an inspection done annually. However, if you are having issues on a regular, abnormal basis, you have a problem on your hands.
  • How old is your gas boiler?
    • Generally, the better you are about maintenance and annual inspections, the less problems you will face with your boiler. The average lifespan of a gas boiler is about 10 to 15 years but can vary. If you have had yours for longer than this range, it might be time to get a new one.
  • Will you spend more in repairs than you would if you replaced the unit?
    • Repairs are costly and add up quickly. You should consider how much you are spending on repairs each year and compare that figure to the cost of a new appliance.

If you have decided to replace the gas boiler, it is now time to focus on these questions:

  • What type of boiler will you get?
    • Just as some cars last longer than others, some types and brands of gas boilers also last longer than others. Cast iron boilers have a lifespan of 20 or more years, while high efficiency gas boilers last about 15 or more years. Of course, many factors go into deciding, such as cost, fuel type, the climate where you live, and the size of the boiler. In New England temperatures, boilers are necessary, and you want to get a boiler that is just the right size to heat the size of the home you live in.
  • How will you ensure proper maintenance of the new boiler?
    • Maintenance is necessary to ensure that you are not replacing your new boiler prematurely. Smart practice is to schedule an annual inspection, plan to look over the appliance yourself regularly, and get it cleaned annually.

Proper installation of the new gas boiler is of the utmost importance, as you do not want to face more issues down the road from an incorrect installation. Getting a professional to come out and install it for you (instead of trying to do it yourself) will ensure that the boiler operates exactly as the manufacturer intended, and that it will last as long as possible.

Whether you have just bought a new home and need to choose a gas boiler, or are looking to replace your worn out one, J. Griffin Heating and Plumbing has all the expertise and skills to help you through the process. We will work with you to make sure the correct boiler is chosen for your home, specific circumstances, and budget. To get in touch with us, call (781)-520-1212 or visit our Facebook page using this link: https://www.facebook.com/JGriffinHeatingandPlumbing/