As the weather gets warmer and summer approaches and you turn your heating off for a few weeks, it’s easy to forget how important having an effective and efficient boiler is in your home.
But, as energy prices soar and look set to go even higher in the coming winter, the time is now right to look for a new boiler if yours is faulty or you’ve had it for a number of years.
A boiler will begin to decrease in efficiency after around eight to nine years, likely leading to your heating costs increasing. It will also be more prone to faults and you’ll have to factor in regular, costly repairs to keep you warm throughout the year.
Buying a new boiler allows you to benefit from lower heating costs, whilst also preventing more frequent, expensive repairs. Here are a few factors to consider first.
1. Time of year
This time of year, as we approach summer, is the best time of year to purchase a new boiler. This is because you may have to go a few days without heating or hot water, and there’s nothing worse than being freezing in winter time!
This could even stretch to weeks if your boiler suddenly breaks and you have to source a plumber at one of the busiest times of year when boilers are being used the most and flaws or breakages are more prevalent.
In the summer months when there is less demand, some plumbing companies can even fit a new boiler the following day.
2. The type of boiler you need
There are three main types of boilers used in UK households:
- Combi boilers: typically the most common type of boiler used. They are the most modern and compact form of boiler and offer instant heating.
- System boiler: these are used in larger households containing two or more bathrooms and store the hot water in a cylinder.
- Regular boiler: These are found in older houses and contain extensive pipework connected to the mains.
It’s important to understand which system you need to replace before you contact a plumber.
3. The warranty of your next boiler provider
The length and terms of warranties differ from manufacturer to manufacturer. It is strongly advised that you check what warranties are available and register with your chosen manufacturer as soon as possible so that you don’t lose out. Warranties can vary, on average they are around 10-12 years.
4. Check reviews before buying
It’s always worth looking at online reviews of boiler products before purchasing. It’s equally important to check the accreditations of local plumbers who can fit it for you. UK-based boiler engineers should be Gas Safe registered and experienced. You should check several platforms such as Google My Business, Trustpilot and Facebook to make sure you have chosen a trusted provider.
5. Looking after your boiler once installed
It’s recommended to get your boiler serviced once a year to help to spot any potential issues before they manifest into something more serious (and avoid a week without heating!). It’s a good idea to stick with the same company who installed it, as they will know the specifics of your boiler, as well as any common issues that crop up with that particular model.
Perhaps you can even book in a service for a year in advance with the company once it has been installed. Some providers may even offer an early bird discount for this, or repeat customer discount.
If you’re not sure whether you need a new boiler or yours just needs repairing and regular servicing, contact your local trusted plumber to get advice.