We rely on residential boilers to keep our home warm during the coldest winters. But what happens if your trusty boiler starts showing signs of trouble? Should you call to have it fixed or get it replaced? Let’s take a look at your options.
Table of Contents:
- Common Problems With Residential Boilers You Could Encounter
- When To Replace Your Residential Boiler
- What Are The Features And Advantages Of A Residential Boiler Replacement?
- What Homeowners Should Consider Before Buying A New Boiler
- What Is the Difference Between High-Efficiency Vs. Standard-Efficiency Boilers?
- Call Point Bay Fuel For All Of Your HVAC Requirements
Common Problems With Residential Boilers You Could Encounter
Boiler Turns Off By Itself
If the boiler switches off on its own, it could be due to several reasons, such as a problem with the thermostat, a frozen condensate pipe, low water pressure, faulty pump, or air pressure.
Pilot Light Goes Out
If the pilot light keeps switching off, the boiler may have damaged seals or a faulty thermocouple. Do not attempt to fix the pilot light on your own. Instead, call a licensed HVAC company to fix the problem right away.
Leaking Boiler
A leaking boiler may have damaged components or loose connections. To be on the safe side, call an HVAC contractor to get the unit repaired.
Low Pressure
Boilers that run on a pressurized system may start losing pressure due to issues with their expansion vessel or a water leak. While you may be tempted to fix a residential boiler on your own using the instruction manual, it is far safer to call the HVAC company instead.
When To Replace Your Residential Boiler
Below, we discuss when to repair vs. replace your boiler.
Age
With age, your boiler will have to work harder to heat your home. On average, the lifespan of a boiler is about 15 years. Once it is a few years shy of its 15th year of service, it will begin to show signs of wear-and-tear.
Low Efficiency
Along with age, damage and neglect can cause a boiler to become less efficient. A low-efficiency boiler will work twice as hard to produce enough heat to keep your home comfortable. As a result, you will pay more for energy than you would with a high-efficiency unit.
Hot/Cold Patches
Patches of warmth and cold in the radiator can often be blamed on trapped air or a build-up of sludge. This results in unequal heat distribution.
Unusual Noises
A residential boiler system is not supposed to make whistling, gurgling, or banging noises. If your boiler is unusually noisy, call a residential boiler service company to make the proper diagnosis.
Frequent Repairs
If the cost of boiler repair is close to or higher than the cost of a replacement unit, it is time to have your old unit replaced. Also, if you have to repair your boiler a few times a year, then it is time to start shopping around. It is wiser to invest your hard-earned money on a new unit than to keep dumping money on a boiler that is on its way out.
What Are The Features And Advantages Of A Residential Boiler Replacement?
If you are deciding between getting your boiler replaced or having it repaired, consider the many benefits of having a new boiler installed.
- Increased Comfort: A new residential boiler can provide your home with a warm and comfortable atmosphere when and where you need it most. You have peace of mind knowing that your boiler will work for you even in the middle of the coldest winter.
- Reduced Energy Costs: A high-efficiency boiler does not consume as much energy as an older unit. Also, it optimizes the use of fuel, keeping your home warm at a cheaper cost.
- Low Operational Costs: A new boiler has fresh components that can function well for many years. That means you do not need to pay for frequent boiler checkups or repairs.
- Warranty: Every new equipment purchase comes with a warranty that covers parts and repair. You are assured of excellent service whenever you need it.
What Homeowners Should Consider Before Buying A New Boiler
- Size: If a residential boiler is oversized, it will consume more fuel. If it is undersized, it will not work efficiently. Sizing matters and should be gauged based on factors such as the home’s insulation values, wall thickness, air filtration, house orientation, foundation, among others.
- Energy Efficiency: A boiler installation company will gladly recommend a high-efficiency system for you. Energy-efficient boilers have lower fuel consumption but can perform exceptionally well.
- Fuel Type: If your home uses natural gas or oil, you will need to invest in a boiler that uses the same fuel type.
- Brand: Some brands have built their reputation on the performance of their units. They may also offer better services in your area.
- Warranty: Typically, the manufacturer will offer a warranty or guarantee period of up to 10 years and provide coverage of parts replacement to a limited degree.
What Is the Difference Between High-Efficiency Vs. Standard-Efficiency Boilers?
Boiler efficiency (AFUE) refers to the amount of heat the unit produces in relation to the fuel it consumes and the amount of fuel that evaporates as gas. A high-efficiency boiler is designed to cool flue gases so that any steam produced will condense and turn back into a liquid. As a result, it retains and produces more heat.
A standard-efficiency boiler, on the other hand, can lose up to 20% of the heat it produces, which means the unit will likely use up more energy to warm your house.
Although high-efficiency boilers cost more initially, they pay for themselves over time in the form of lower energy costs. Therefore, they are worth the investment.
Call Point Bay Fuel For All Of Your HVAC Requirements
Choosing the right type of boiler and ensuring that it is efficient enough will go a long way to ensure your comfort and savings. Consider all your options carefully so you can make an informed decision regarding one of the most important equipment in your home.
Point Bay Fuel is the area’s leading expert for heating and cooling services. Our NATE certified technicians have the experience to solve any of your home comfort problems in a fast, friendly, and knowledgeable manner. You can count on us to provide you with the most competitive prices in the area. Also, to ensure your satisfaction, we guarantee all of the work that we perform for you. Be sure to give Point Bay Fuel a call today to schedule a free, in-home estimate.
Contact us now by calling (732) 349-5059 to speak to one of our home comfort specialists!
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