How long does a boiler last?

We understand that buying a new boiler is a big investment, and you need to be sure of getting it right. Your boiler is also the heart of your home – keeping you warm and comfortable – so it’s vital you make the right choice when the time comes to replace it.

You’ve probably got lots of questions: how long does a boiler last? When does a boiler need replacing? What sort of boiler do I need? We’ve also got advice on how to go about getting a new boiler and, when you’ve had it installed, how to make your new boiler last longer.

How long does a boiler last?

Your boiler should last from 10 to 15 years if you have it serviced annually and look after it properly. A brand new boiler will provide you with highly efficient heating and hot water; even if it is 15 years old and still working, it won’t be working so efficiently, and your heating may be costing you more than it should. According to the Energy Saving Trust, you could save up to £315 a year on your energy bills if you replace an old inefficient gas boiler with a new boiler, controller, room thermostat and thermostatic radiator valves.

Your old boiler could also be increasing your carbon footprint, which is something we are all trying to reduce these days.

When does a boiler need replacing?

Here are some signs that it may be time to think about changing your boiler:

• Frequent breakdowns and repairs.
• Radiators are taking a long time to warm up.
• Hot water is coming out slowly or not very hot.
• Your boiler is making strange noises.
• Your boiler keeps losing pressure.

For any of the above, your first port of call should be your Gas Safe registered heating engineer or Baxi Customer Support. They may be able to fix it easily.

• High heating bills – a sign that your boiler isn’t as efficient as it used to be.
• You are extending your property and the old boiler isn’t powerful enough to cope with the extra rooms.
• You’re selling your home – a new high efficiency boiler and controls could add value to your property.It’s a great way of getting a higher energy efficiency rating on your Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). It may also be attractive to potential buyers who know they won’t have the upheaval of getting the boiler replaced themselves.
• Not enough hot water – perhaps your needs have changed, and a combi boiler can’t let you run more than one shower or bath at the same time.You may need a more powerful boiler or change your combi for a system boiler and hot water storage cylinder.

What sort of boiler do I need?

There are three main kinds of boiler: Combination (Combi), System and Heat Only (also known as Regular). Your home and hot water requirements will determine which is best for your needs.

Use our easy ‘Find a boiler’ tool. By answering a few simple questions, we’ll advise you on the best Baxi boiler for your needs.

Or ask your Gas Safe registered installer to carry out a survey of your home and advise you of the type of boiler you need for all your heating and hot water requirements. They will look at your existing system to determine whether you need any replacement pipework or controls to meet the latest Building Regulations, and will also evaluate your home – number of rooms, windows, insulation etc – to calculate the output of boiler to suit your needs.

How can I get a new boiler?

We recommend you get three quotes from Gas Safe registered engineers to do the work. You may have recommendations from friends and family, or you can use our Find an Installer tool. Simply enter your postcode, and you’ll find Gas Safe registered heating engineers in your area.

Once you’ve accepted a quote for your boiler installation, your engineer will schedule the work. Straightforward installation of a combi boiler typically takes around a day. They should also carry out a power flush of the system to get rid of all the debris in the system before fitting the new boiler.

When the installation is complete, the installer will complete the Benchmark checklist, show you how the boiler works and how to operate the controls properly.

How can I make my boiler last longer?

If you look after it, your boiler will give you many years of good service.

• Annual service – just like your car needs an annual MOT, your boiler needs an annual service carried out by a Gas Safe registered engineer to keep it working safely, efficiently and reliably.
• Don’t overwork it! – keep an eye on the pressure gauge, and if it is creeping up take action to reduce the pressure so as not to add extra wear and tear.
• Ensure your installer carries out a power flush on your heating system BEFORE installing the new boiler, to get rid of all the old debris from the pipes. They should also fit a magnetic filter to collect any bits of magnetite before the system water enters the boiler.
• We have some hints and tips for caring for your boiler here.