Age wears on your boiler causing increased repair costs and decreased
energy efficiency. So if your older boiler has broken down, deciding whether to repair or replace it is a pressing question.
To help you make this decision, we offer you some guidelines. As you read
through the article, bear in mind that finding a competent technician who is
willing to repair your older unit for a reasonable price is an important factor.
If you live in the Baltimore area, call on Alan Urszuy, the director of 1st
Choice Plumbing Inc. Alan is an experienced plumber and gas fitter, with years
of experience installing and repairing boilers.
Consider Your Boiler's Energy Efficiency
If your boiler is more than 20 years old, chances are that it's not a
condensing boiler. Condensing boilers,
which have been in widespread use since the mid 90s, increase energy efficiency
by recycling heat in the boiler's flue to heat up colder water in the boiler.
Boilers with condensers are 10%-20% more energy
efficient. A family living in a semi-detached home
can save up to $240 a year by installing a condensing boiler. You should also consider replacing an older condensing boiler that breaks
down, as it too looses energy efficiency as it ages
Consider Your Boiler's Warranty
If your boiler's warranty has expired than your annual repair and
maintenance costs may be 5 times that of a warranteed boiler.
Consider Availability of Parts and Labor
A cost analysis that justifies keeping an older boiler is a mere
theoretical consideration unless you can find parts and a technician willing to
repair it.
Consider Your Boiler's History
Some appliances are troublesome right from the start, this can result
from a manufacturing error, faulty installation, poor maintenance, and or
improper use. If you've had to put a lot of money into
your boiler, consider replacing it earlier on.
Consider Whether the Money Your Putting into Your Boiler is Increasing a Lot, a Little, or Staying the Same
While any one repair job will cost only a fraction of the price of
installing a new boiler, consider how money you're laying out for the boiler is
trending to get some idea of likely future layouts.
Consider the Following Specific Indicators for Replacement
·
Water
Leaking from your Heat exchanger
·
Water that
has gotten into your boiler
·
For
additional information and a professional evaluation call our office at
410-967-6547
Consider Your Purchase Options
Since newer boilers are more energy efficient you might be eligible for
a tax rebate; check with your plumber to find out. Space saving advantages may be an important consideration if you are
considering switching from a regular boiler to a combi-boiler.
Talk Over the Problem with Your Plumber
When deciding whether to repair or replace your boiler, there are a
number of complex considerations, which your experienced plumber is best able
to help you resolve. If you live in the Baltimore are, call us at 410-967-6547 for advice
from a licensed plumber
Resources: In the Greater Baltimore Area Contact 1st Choice Plumbing Inc.; 3502 Taney Road; Baltimore, Md. 21215; 410-967-6547; http://www.1stchoiceplumbinginc.com for all your boiler needs.
