Does my boiler need replacing?

Replacing your boiler can often be a huge cost. Knowing when to take the leap can be difficult. It may just be that it requires some repairs to prolong the system's life, or that it simply has reached the end of its time. There are many factors you can look out for from the way your boiler runs, how often it needs servicing and how easy it is to get replacement parts. Our handy guide will give you an idea of what to look out for.

What should I look out for?
It is often said that when a boiler reaches a certain age it needs replacing, but this isn't always true. Try not to worry too much about the numbers. And look out for these signs instead.

• Your boiler simply isn't working like it used to - You may have noticed your boiler just 'isn't right'. It may be running sluggishly. Perhaps your radiators are taking longer to heat up or you're having to adjust the pressure on the boiler more often than usual.

• Frequent breakdowns - you shouldn't be calling out a gas engineer more than once a year. If you find that you are, this could be a sign that your boiler needs replacing.

• Replacement parts are hard to find - If your boiler is of a certain age, you might find the parts are harder to find or are becoming costly. It's time to consider an alternative If it starts becoming a false economy to do the repairs.

• Your bills are creeping up - is that monthly energy bill looking a bit steep? It could be an inefficient boiler at the route of it.

• Boiler leaks - Boilers should never leak water. This could be a sign of a broken internal valve or seal. It may be the case of a quick fix, but a qualified gas engineer will need to check this out first.

• The blue flame is yellow - Your boiler flame should always burn a bright blue. If the flame looks yellowy colour your boiler needs immediate attention.

• Does your boiler smell odd? This is something you should be very aware of. It the boiler is emitting eggy, sulphurous smells; this could indicate a gas leak. You should turn off your gas immediately and call the emergency gas line on 0800 111 999.

Hopefully we have given you some pointers to keep an eye out for when it comes to your boiler's health. As with all your household systems and appliances, be sure to keep your boiler well maintained with regular services. If anything seems out of the ordinary or it is in fact time to look into a new boiler, call the team at Mayne Gas Heating Ltd on 01472 241211 or message via the contact page.

Alternatively, if you do smell gas, always contact the gas emergency line on 0800 111 999.