If you’ve recently purchased a new boiler or are contemplating when it’s time to replace one, you’re probably curious about how long a normal boiler lasts.
Boilers can last up to 10-15 years in the average home. It’s important to note, however, that this timeframe is conditional. If you don’t maintain your boiler on a regular basis, its life expectancy will be shortened, therefore be proactive in caring for it to extend its lifespan as much as possible.
Whether you have a combi or conventional model, read on to find out our professional gas engineers advice on prolonging the life of your boiler.
How long does a combi boiler last?
When compared to a traditional boiler, modern combi boilers should last up to 15 years due to their great efficiency and fewer pressure difficulties. Of course, this is contingent on the quality of the model you select and how well you maintain the system.
When selecting a boiler, pay close attention to the brand, make, and quality of the system. Although a higher-quality boiler may cost a bit more upfront, you’ll reap the benefits in the long run by avoiding unneeded, pricey repairs. Our gas engineer will always offer you advice and recommendations when you need a new boiler installed.
How to Extend the Life of a Boiler
There are no two ways about it: your boiler will need to be replaced at some point. There are, however, a number of things you can do to extend the life of your boiler and keep your central heating system functioning efficiently for as long as possible.
Get an annual boiler service
We can’t stress enough the importance of an annual boiler service from a Gas Safe Registered engineer. A competent gas engineer can inspect your boiler for efficiency and detect early symptoms of damage, saving you money on repairs.
Even though your boiler appears to be in good working order, an annual boiler service is a proven method to extend its lifespan by keeping it that way. After the first year, an annual service is required for Vaillant installed boilers in order to preserve your warranty.
Prevent corrosion
Boilers, like many other systems, are subject to the effects of rust and corrosion over time. The boiler may potentially be harmed as a result of this. The easiest method to avoid this is to have a Gas Safe Registered engineer install an inhibitor in your system. This is a protective coating that forms around the metals to keep limescale and corrosion at bay.
Please keep in mind that an inhibitor is a preventative strategy rather than a treatment for limescale buildup. If your system has corrosion, sludge, or limescale, your gas engineer will need to perform a power flush (detailed below).
Prevent the accumulation of sludge
Over time, sludge and debris can accumulate in the pipes of your central heating system, causing harm to your boiler. Sludge will be properly filtered before it reaches the boiler by installing a magnetic filter, a small component that lies within the system’s pipes.
During your annual service, a Gas Safe Registered engineer can install and clean a magnetic filter, which will help your boiler last longer.
Powerflushing
If you have an older boiler, you may already be dealing with limescale or sludge buildup. This can lead to central heating system clogs and corrosion, resulting in a boiler breakdown. Simply put, sludge buildup can significantly shorten the life of your boiler.
A power flush, performed by a gas engineer, involves forcing a specific cleaning chemical through the heating system at high pressure. This can take anywhere from 8 hours to 2 days depending on the size of your property, but it is essential if you want your boiler to last as long as possible.
Do you require the help of a Gas Safe heating or gas engineer? In Nottingham, Mapperley, West Bridgford, and Hucknall, our gas engineers help maintain a wide range of boilers and heating systems. Please call 07974 368611 or fill out our online form to get in touch with us.