What is a boiler?

A boiler is a large appliance that is used to heat water or produce steam for a variety of purposes, such as heating buildings, generating electricity, or providing hot water for domestic use. Boilers are typically fueled by natural gas, oil, or electricity, and they work by heating water or steam inside a closed system of pipes or tubes.

There are many types of boilers and water heaters, including:

Conventional boiler: This type of boiler uses either oil or gas as fuel and is typically used for heating.
Combi boiler: A combination boiler, also known as a combi boiler, provides both heating and hot water in one unit.
Tankless water heater: Also known as on-demand water heater, this type of water heater heats water only when it is needed and does not have a storage tank.
Tank-style water heater: This type of water heater stores hot water in a tank, making it available when needed.
Solar water heater: This type of water heater uses energy from the sun to heat the water.
Heat pump water heater: This type of water heater uses electricity to move heat from the air or ground to heat water.

It's important to note that not all of these types of boilers/water heaters are suitable for every home and it's best to consult a professional to determine the best option for your home.

Boilers are an important part of many residential and commercial buildings, providing a reliable source of heat and hot water. Maintenance is very important. Have yours serviced by a professional regularly to ensure that it is functioning safely and efficiently.

How often do you need to replace your boiler or water heater?

There are several signs that it may be time to replace your source of heating. One of the most obvious is the age of the unit. Most boilers or water heaters have a lifespan of around 12 to 15 years, after which they may become less efficient and require more frequent repairs. If your device is older than this, it may be time to consider replacing it with a newer, more efficient model.

Benefits of Regular Maintenance

Cost Effective and Energy Efficient
A well cared-for heating system will provide you with all of the comfort you ever need while doing it effectively, and more importantly, more efficiently! This means your system has to work less hard to get the results you want, directly contributing to lower energy costs overall.

Less Headache
One of the greatest perks of routine care is that our professionals will be able to spot and rectify small-scale issues early. This can help prevent the boiler from breaking down completely and saving you the headache of not having access to heating and hot water in the midst of winter until it is repaired. In the event that you do need a repair service, the issue may not be something very complex thanks to your regular maintenance, which in turn means lower repair costs as well.

A Longer Lifespan
Your heating systems can last up to twenty years in some cases when being well-cared for regularly by a professional. Without it, you could be looking at five or ten years of service before your boiler or water heater goes kaput.

Signs You Might Need To Replace Your Heating System

Frequently Need of Repairs
If you find yourself constantly having to call a technician to fix your boiler, it may be more cost-effective in the long run to replace it instead of continuing to pay for repairs.

Cold Spots In Your Home
A well-functioning boiler should never leave cold spots in your home. If that’s the case, it could point to one of many issues. But don’t worry, our FixlersPro can provide the repairs you need.

Your Heating Costs Are Going Up
Has your energy bill rocketed up with no real change in your usage? If so, chances are that your boiler needs a repair service, or even a replacement. If your heating system is not functioning as efficiently as it used to, it may be costing you more money in bills then it is worth. Replacing an old, inefficient boiler with a newer, more efficient model might be a better option in the long run.

Strange Noises or Unusual Smells
While minor issues may be fixable, if your boiler or water heater is making strange noises or emitting unusual smells, it could be a sign of a more serious issue that requires immediate attention. In these cases, it may be necessary to install a replacement rather than attempting to repair it. Never attempt to do it yourself! Always find a professional to help.
 

Our Service

If you are unsure whether it is time for a replacement, it is a good idea to consult with a professional heating and cooling technician who can assess the condition of your boiler and provide guidance on whether it is time to replace it. As always, Fixlers are here to help! If you need a professional to help with any home improvements, simply fill out the "Request a Service" form at www.fixlers.com and we will find your local FixlersPro. Alternatively, you can call us on 888-683-8483 or visit our FAQ page for more information.