How Long Do Boilers Last?

If you've recently acquired a new boiler or are considering when it's time to replace one, you're undoubtedly wondering how long a typical boiler lasts. 

In an average home, a boiler can last up to 10-15 years. It should be noted, however, that this timetable is conditional. If you do not maintain your boiler on a regular basis, its life expectancy will be reduced; therefore, be proactive in caring for it to maximise its lifespan. 

Read on to find out how our skilled heating engineers can help you extend the life of your boiler, whether it's a combi or a conventional model.

How long does a combi boiler last?  

Modern combi boilers, as compared to older conventional boilers, should last up to 15 years due to their high efficiency and fewer pressure problems. Of course, this is dependent on the model you choose and how well you maintain the system. When choosing a boiler, consider the brand, make, and quality of the system. 

Although a higher-quality boiler may be more expensive up front, you will reap the benefits in the long term by avoiding unnecessary, costly repairs. If you need a new boiler installed, get a free online estimate today & some recommendations for your property.

How to Extend the Life of a Boiler 

There are no two ways about it: your boiler will eventually need to be replaced. However, there are a number of things you can do to extend the life of your boiler and keep your central heating system running as efficiently as possible.

 Get an annual boiler service

The value of an annual boiler service from a Gas Safe Registered engineer cannot be overstated. A qualified Gas Safe heating engineer can evaluate your boiler for efficiency and discover early signs of damage, which can save you money on repairs. 

Even though your boiler looks to be in functioning order, a yearly boiler service is a tried and tested means of extending its lifespan by keeping it in good working order. An annual service is required for most boiler brands after the first year to maintain your guarantee.

 Prevent corrosion

Boilers, like many other systems, are prone to rust and corrosion over time. The boiler could be harmed as a result of this. The simplest way to prevent this is to have a Gas Safe Registered heating engineer install an inhibitor in your system. This is a protective covering that builds around metals to shield them from limescale and corrosion. 

Please bear in mind that an inhibitor is a preventative measure, not a cure for limescale buildup. Your heating engineer will need to execute a power flush if your system has corrosion, sludge, or limescale (detailed below).

 Prevent the accumulation of sludge

Sludge and debris can build up in the pipes of your central heating system over time, causing damage to your boiler. By installing a magnetic filter, a small component located within the system's pipes, sludge will be thoroughly filtered before it reaches the boiler. 

A Gas Safe Registered heating engineer can install and clean a magnetic filter during your yearly service, which can help your boiler last longer.

 Powerflushing

You may already be dealing with limescale or sludge accumulation if you have an older boiler. This can cause obstructions in the central heating system and corrosion, resulting in a boiler breakdown. Simply put, sludge buildup can drastically reduce the lifespan of your boiler. 

A heating engineer will perform a power flush, which includes pumping a specialised cleaning chemical through the heating system at high pressure. Depending on the size of your house, this can take anywhere from 8 hours to 2 days, but it is necessary if you want your boiler to last as long as possible.

Another crucial element in boiler maintenance is selecting trustworthy heating engineers. VFR Gas is not only fully Gas Safe registered, but we also offer considerable knowledge and experience servicing and installing boilers across Kent, covering Dover, Folkestone, and Canterbury. If you have any concerns about our boiler repairs or installs, please contact VFR Gas at 07957 479 456 or fill out our short contact form.