Most boilers last for at least 15 years if there are no major issues. Some homeowners may get lucky and have their boilers last for up to 30 years, but that is a rarity.
Proper installation is one of the most important factors that will impact boiler operating efficiency and subsequent longevity. Having your boiler serviced regularly can also ensure continued performance of your heating unit and increase the lifespan of your boiler overall.
Just because boilers are typically low maintenance does not mean there's no maintenance needed. Here are some of the warning signs that your boiler is in need of repair, a checkup or possibly replacement.
OLD OR OUTDATED BOILERS
Age is a major determining factor of boiler efficiency. Even if your 15-year-old boiler is still working, it's probably costing you a lot more on your utility bill than a new, high-efficiency boiler would. If it's been well over a decade since you've had your boiler replaced, you may want to look at efficiency ratings and monthly energy costs on newer systems. You may be surprised at how much less fuel you need to maintain the same temperature.
INCREASED COSTS TO RUN YOUR BOILER
Sudden spikes on fuel use are a sign that there could be something wrong with your boiler, no matter how new or old your boiler happens to be. Any changes in your monthly utility bill that don't correlate with seasonal changes, increased use or leaving your home at a warmer temperature can indicate that there is a malfunction somewhere within your heating system.
If your heating bills (or cooling for that matter) suddenly jump up for no reason, it may be time to call in an HVAC professional.
NOTICEABLE ODORS COMING FROM UNIT
Bad or unusual smells emanating from your boiler unit could indicate there is a gas leak (such as carbon monoxide, natural gas or propane, all of which are extremely dangerous) or a problem with your system's exhaust. It's always best to err on the side of caution and have your boiler unit inspected as soon as possible, as gas leaks can be extremely dangerous.
LEAKS OF ANY KIND
Although gas leaks are the most dangerous kind of heating system leaks, leaks of any kind could suggest there are problems within your boiler's heating system. Water leaks may indicate corrosion within your water tank or be the result of failing components in the system. Any leaks should be a sign that it's time to have your boiler checked out.
Water leaks can result in serious damage to your home. If those leaks aren't addressed as soon as possible you could jeopardize your ability to file a claim with your homeowners insurance provider. The moment you spot a boiler leak, we encourage you to call our plumbers.
TROUBLE MAINTAINING TEMPERATURE
If the temperature in your home – or your home's water – doesn't seem to be regulating the way that it should or the way it is has in the past, there could be a problem with how the water within your boiler is circulating. Those problems could be throwing off the temperature within your home.
YOUR BOILER IS MAKING STRANGE NOISES
Depending on the age and model of your boiler, there will be some noise when your unit turns on and off. You should call a plumber or HVAC technician for sounds or noises that are out of the ordinary, such as whistling noises. Whistling could indicate a mineral or water backup within the system. Any other strange noises such as gurgling or clanging coming from the unit are good auditory signs that your unit is in need of repairs.
NO HEAT OR HOT WATER
This is probably one of the more obvious signs that there is something wrong with your boiler, but it's worth mentioning anyway. Ascertaining the exact source of the problem is often a lot harder than just recognizing there is a problem. A professional can help you figure out if the problem with your boiler is a simple repair or something more serious.
YOUR BOILER KEEPS SHUTTING ITSELF OFF
Many boilers come with built-in temperature sensors that tell the unit it's time to shut down if the system begins to get too hot. If there is an issue within the boiler that causes the temperature to rise, whether it's a closed valve or malfunctioning pump, the unit will shut itself down before it can become dangerous. Your unit shutting down frequently could indicate there's a problem with the temperature regulation mechanism.
If you notice your boiler shutting down frequently, it's time to call in a professional to diagnose the larger issue.
WHEN IT'S TIME TO REACH OUT TO A PLUMBING PROFESSIONAL IN THE WASHINGTON DC AREA
At Vito Services, we are very experienced in gas boiler maintenance, boiler servicing and repair. If you are in the DMV area and you notice any of the signs above or suspect there's a problem with your boiler, contact us at 866-792-7154 to fix it. Emergency services are available 24/7.
