Is your boiler still chugging along? If so, great — but that doesn’t have to mean everything’s perfect under the surface.
See, there are plenty of boiler issues that won’t cause it to break down right away. Many of those issues can pose a danger to you and your family. Regular maintenance can help in this regard, but only to a point.
How do you know whether your boiler will need to be replaced? Keep an eye out for these 5 common signs of boiler malfunction.
1. Strange Sounds
Every time you fire up your boiler, it will make a noise. This should be a low hum, and most of us don’t notice it anymore. That said, noises such as whirring, banging, and clunking are more of a cause for concern.
If your boiler is making these sounds, you should have it checked out by a professional. They may be an indicator of all kinds of issues, from heat pump faults to a broken valve.
2. Cold Radiators
Most boilers reach their maximum temperature in no time. If your radiators take hours to get there, your boiler may be on the way out. In this case, getting a boiler replacement is better than paying for increased use.
Of course, this can also mean that your radiators are full of sludge. This can lead to blockages and receiving dirty water from the system. Either way, you should address it as soon as possible.
3. Leaks
Seeing puddles around your boiler is another serious warning sign. In most cases, this means that the boiler’s internal parts are faulty. If you’re out of luck, they may have already started to disintegrate.
Leaks often lead to further issues, such as corrosion and rust. In the long run, they may cause structural damage to your home. Even in the best-case scenario, your heating will be inefficient.
4. Foul Smells
Is your boiler giving off any kind of odor? If so, what you should be most worried about is a carbon monoxide leak. Though carbon monoxide is odorless, smells can be a byproduct of the boiler not burning well.
Other signs of a carbon monoxide leak include increased condensation and dark soot around the appliance. If you notice these, evacuate your home immediately. Carbon monoxide can be very dangerous to you and your family.
5. Increased Energy Bills
An old boiler is far less efficient than it used to be when you bought it. This is something that will show up in your energy bills. If they’re increasing over time, your boiler is one of the most likely culprits.
As a rule of thumb, an average boiler will last around 15 years. Sure, regular maintenance can extend its lifespan. At that point, though, the costs of keeping it up and running may outweigh the benefits.
Does Your Boiler Need to Be Replaced?
If you notice any of the above issues, check in with a licensed professional. Many people wait for their boilers to give out completely before replacing them. As we’ve established above, this is a bad idea for many reasons.
Still not sure whether your boiler will need to be replaced? Looking for other ways to enhance your home life? Check out our “Home Improvement” section!