Boiler Service, Repair and Replace
You will need to both service and replace your boiler at some point during its lifespan, and knowing the right times to do both can help you to save money and hassle – not to mention keep you safe in your home. Bubbles Boilers are experts at knowing when you need to service or replace.
5 Reasons to make an appointment with Bubbles Boilers:
- Checking the visual integrity of the boiler to see if it meets safety regulations
- Removal of the casing to ensure all components are working safely and efficiently
- Inspection of the flue to check for obstructions, and checking that the boiler is burning the correct gas/air mixture
- Checking the gas pressure
- Seeing if the boiler fires up correctly
The fact is, unless you’re certified and insured to do the above things to your boiler, you could be putting yourself and your family at risk. We are Gas Safe and know exactly what to look for when we remove components and we ensure that everything we do to your boiler is performed as carefully as possible. We can spot even small signs that your boiler isn’t working correctly, and this could potentially save you a lot of money in the long run.
Your boiler must meet safety regulations, and every part of it needs to be working effectively. We know how to look for this. We also know how to safely check the gas pressure and the signs to look for that indicate the boiler is not working as it should be.
Setting up an annual service for your boiler is key to preserving the life of it and making sure everything is in full working order. If you stay on top of your annual services, then your boiler should last around 15 years. Once you are nearing this point with your boiler, it’s a good idea to begin saving for a new one. Let’s talk more about this with 6 Signs your boiler needs to be replaced below:
1. The boiler is Older Than 15 Years
Any boiler older than 15 years is not going to work as effectively as it once did. There’s nothing you can do about your boiler losing efficiency in old age, so you need to be prepared for when the time comes to replace it. Replacing your boiler when its life is almost over will help you to save more money in the long run, and you also have the opportunity to install a boiler that can be used alongside smart gadgets and apps to make your life easier.
2. Boiler’s Energy Efficiency Rating is Lower Than an “A”
Boilers count for around 55-60% of your energy bills. If your boiler’s energy efficiency is any lower than ‘A’ rated, you’re likely wasting both energy and money. A rated boilers are the most efficient boilers, with an efficiency of 90% or higher. Whether you are concerned with having a boiler that is better for the environment is irrelevant; what matters is your boiler will not be as reliable or cost effective if it is not A rated. If you don’t have an A rated boiler right now, it’s time to replace it.
3. Your Boiler Takes Longer To Heat Up Than It Used To
If you’ve noticed that your boiler is taking much longer to heat up than it used to, even after a service, then it’s probably time to replace it. Of course, calling Bubbles Boilers is the best way to see what’s really going on. The team will take a look under the hood so to speak, and be able to see if an obstruction or something else is causing the issue. If nothing is found to be wrong and your boiler is simply slowing down, having your boiler replaced completely is the only thing you can do.
4. Your Boiler’s Flame is Yellow Instead of Blue
A boiler’s flame should always be blue. The second you notice a change in flame colour, especially if it’s yellow, you need to stop using your boiler and call Bubbles Boilers immediately.
Some people might notice that their flame has turned from blue to yellow, mabe red, or maybe yellow with a burning tip. At the very least this means that you’re wasting gas, but it could also mean that as you use your boiler you are generating dangerous carbon monoxide. This is extremely dangerous and life threatening, and many people have died from carbon monoxide poisoning. It’s time to replace your boiler if you have noticed a change in flame colour.
5. Your Boiler is Leaking
If your boiler is leaking water, this could mean many things, such as a problem with the temperature probe. Corrosion also causes pipes and tanks to weaken over time, which can cause leaking. It may be fixable, but if you have a substantial leak this could be a sign that your boiler is actually beyond repair. The best thing you can do is call us to see whether this is something that can be repaired or replaced.
6. Your Fuel Costs Are Rising
Perhaps you’ve noticed that your fuel costs are rising. Keeping your utilities and other costs within your budget is likely one of your concerns, and rising fuel costs could ruin this for you. As your boiler tends to become less efficient over time, small increases can likely be expected. However, if you wait too long to replace your boiler, those costs will likely increase substantially and you will be paying way more than you need to be. Instead, replacing your boiler, although a higher initial cost, can save you money over time.
Bubbles Boilers have a number of suitable replacements that could be right for your home. We also offer a hive smart thermostat with every replacement, which is a wonderful upgrade and can enable you to control your heating remotely. If you know your boiler needs to be serviced or replaced and you’re not sure which, make an appointment with us and we’ll take care of everything!
