Blog>Expert Advice>Should I repair or replace my boiler?

Last updated: 21 October 2024

Should I repair or replace my boiler?

If your boiler is suffering frequent breakdowns, you may be asking yourself 'should I repair or replace my boiler?' Our guide has everything you need to know to help you make this big decision.

Should I repair or replace my boiler?
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Are you frequently waking up to a broken boiler on a frosty winter morning? It might be time to ask, 'Should I repair or replace my boiler?'

Your boiler may even be showing other telltale signs that it's giving up, like constant breakdowns.

Read our guide for more info on repairing or replacing your boiler.

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Common boiler problems

Some common boiler problems can be fixed quickly; others need professional repair.

Even if there is still life in your boiler, replacing an inefficient boiler can result in better energy efficiency and lower energy bills.

Knowing why your boiler is playing up can help you decide whether to repair or replace your boiler.

Consider these common boiler faults;

Low or no boiler pressure

Check if your boiler pressure is below the one mark. If so, this indicates a pressure drop.

This pressure drop could be due to water leaks, a faulty or ageing pressure release valve, or bleeding your radiators.

should i repair or replace my boiler

Lack of heat or hot water

Check your thermostat or pressure gauge to see if they're the culprits.

If not, no heat or hot water might be due to more severe problems. These problems can include things like a broken diaphragm or airlock issue.

Leaking boilers

Boiler leaks may be caused by several things, like a blocked burner, blocked thermocouple, broken pump seal or faulty pressure valve.

Check if the leak is coming from your pressure valve - the pressure may be too high.

Corrosion may cause leaks from the pipes or the tank, suggesting you need a new boiler.

should i repair my boiler

Strange noises/kettling

If your boiler starts to sound like a kettle, there may be sludge build-up on the heat exchanger.

Call a boiler fitter to flush out your boiler system and remove the sludge build-up. Although this can be costly, it might be cheaper than a new boiler.

Is your boiler frequently suffering from any of these problems?

Find out what to do about a broken boiler in winter.

A boiler fitter can help you diagnose faults and possible repairs.

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Common boiler repairs

There are instances when a cheaper fix may be possible. For example, new boilers are prime candidates for boiler repair.

If your boiler is still within its lifespan and not suffering from frequent problems, a boiler repair might be possible.

Here are some of the common boiler repairs;

  • Replacing corroded pipes

  • Resetting or replacing a thermostat

  • Replacing the fan or circulating pump

  • Flushing the system to clear airlocks

  • Replacing a malfunctioning pressure relief valve

  • Repairing or replacing a blocked burner or faulty thermocouple

How often should you change your boiler?

When modern boilers are well-maintained and serviced, they last from 10 to 15 years.

But deciding when to change your boiler also depends on a few other factors, including;

  • Extent of use

  • Age of boiler

  • Number of recent breakdowns

If your boiler is nearing its 15th birthday, consider replacing it.

When should you replace your boiler?

There comes a time when it's more cost-effective to replace your boiler than repair it.

You might consider replacing your boiler based on;

  • Age - the older your boiler gets, the less efficient it is

  • Faults - regular breakdowns mean the cost of repair work is adding up

  • Efficiency - an older boiler will be less energy efficient, with higher energy bills

If your boiler's energy efficiency is less than 70%, an upgrade can save you money on energy bills.

should i repair or replace my boiler

FAQS

Should I repair my boiler?

Brand-new boilers are the best candidates for boiler repairs. They're less likely to need major or pricey repairs.

Because newer boilers are often still under warranty, the manufacturer can repair faults.

But, to maintain your warranty, get your boiler regularly serviced and maintained.

Should I replace my ten-year-old combi boiler?

Your boiler might be worth replacing if it's ten or older.

A replacement might be cheaper if your boiler is experiencing constant breakdowns.

Higher energy bills might also be a deciding factor in boiler replacement.

A newer, more efficient, reliable boiler might save you money.

How to tell if a boiler needs replacing?

If you're unsure whether your boiler needs replacing, here are some signs to look for;

  • Strange noises

  • High energy bills

  • Inconsistent heating

  • Trouble getting hot water

  • Signs of physical corrosion

  • A foul or gas smell

  • A yellow flame

Have you noticed any of these issues?

Call a boiler fitter to inspect your boiler and ensure it's safe for continued use.

Do you need to change the pipework for a new boiler?

You might need to replace corroded pipework, move pipework or upgrade your model.

But, if your new boiler is going in the same place as your old one, it should be straightforward.

A boiler engineer can help you decide whether or not you need new pipework.

Changing pipework for a new boiler

How long does it take for a plumber to fit a new boiler?

Most boiler installations are straightforward and take only four to six hours.

However, changing the boiler's location, replacing the pipework, or changing the boiler type might take one to four days.

How much does a new boiler cost?

The cost of a new boiler usually depends on its type and brand, as well as the difficulty of the installation.

You might find the table below helpful;

Type of boilerRange - Low Range - HighAverage cost
Combi boiler - supply only£650£3,000£1,500
System boiler - supply only£650£3,000£1,500
Heat only boiler - supply only£650£3,000£1,500
Gas boiler installation£1,000£2,000£1,500
Last updated: September 2024
Our costs are ballpark averages - get a local tradesperson to quote now

However, moving your new combi boiler to a new location costs, on average, £2,650.

A new boiler that can last another 10-plus years can help you offset the costs.

Find out more about new boiler costs here.

Chat with a boiler fitter today for an accurate quote.

Key takeaways

  • Factor in the age and condition of your boiler when deciding to repair or replace

  • Weigh up the cost of replacement or repairs against better energy efficiency

  • You might be able to repair your boiler if it is less than ten years old

  • Always use a gas-safe engineer to conduct services or repairs; otherwise, you might void your warranty

A boiler engineer is the best person to advise you on what to do with your boiler.

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