When to Repair, When to Replace Your Broken Boiler

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.