With the winter season around the corner and the prospect of plummeting temperatures, many people may ask themselves when is the right time to invest in upgrading to a more efficient boiler. Having said this, an additional question comes to mind: how much is a new boiler for my home?
Typically the cost of upgrading a boiler varies and will depend on a number of factors such as the model chosen, the fuel used, the size of the boiler, and the complexity of the installation procedure. However, generally the cost of upgrading from a conventional boiler to a combi boiler in the UK for the year 2023 will approximately amount to £3,500 for instance, including installation costs.
Therefore, the decision of upgrading your current boiler is an important investment to make, especially in light of the eye watering energy bills seen during the last winter season.
For this reason, it is important to consider a set of factors that include the age of the boiler, its efficiency, the repairs needed, safety concerns in case of certain signs of cracks or leaks which may be a risk to your health and also if you have future plans of renovating your home.
Throughout this article, we’ll walk you through all the factors you should take into account in the event of upgrading your boiler to help you make a final decision as to when is the best time for a boiler upgrade. Nevertheless, the final decision will depend on your specific needs and circumstances and it is important to consult with a professional in the field to discuss your options and come up with the best solution for your home.
Factors to take into account before making a final decision
The age of your boiler
As explained above, there are a number of factors that are well worth considering in the event of upgrading your heating system. One of these factors and arguably one of the most important ones to bare in mind is the age of your current boiler.
Boilers typically last approximately between 10-15 years, and of course this will vary and depend on the specific model and its maintenance requirements. Nevertheless, if your boiler is about to reach this age range or has already done so, it may be the correct time to consider a boiler upgrade and switch to more efficient and modern options on the market.
Efficiency
In addition to the age factor, it is worth noting that the older a boiler gets, the less efficient it tends to be in comparison to newer and more modern boilers on the market. If lately you are noticing that your energy bills are unexpectedly going up, it may have to do with your boiler’s increased inefficiency.
Upgrading your boiler to a more efficiency model can simultaneously save you money in the long run while also changing to a more sustainable option for the environment.
Repairs
If your boiler is in constant need of repairs and maintenance, it may be a sign that it is indeed time to upgrade your boiler. It is of course normal for a boiler to require periodic maintenance, however continuous repairs are a whole different story as they are costly and can indicate that your boiler is reaching the end of its lifespan.
Safety concerns
In case of signs that your boiler is quickly deteriorating, such as cracks or leaks which could potentially result in your current boiler becoming a health hazard, it is time to upgrade to a newer model that is safer and has all the required safety guarantees. This will not only allow you to enjoy a brand new boiler, but will also make you feel safe in your own home.
Home renovations
Lastly, home renovations are also worth considering if you are asking yourself as to whether upgrade your boiler or not. If you are planning on renovating your home, switching to a new boiler will allow you to kill two birds with one shot. Moreover, a new upgraded boiler can be more efficient and better suited to your home’s heating needs.
Pros and cons of upgrading your boiler
The choice of upgrading your boiler is entirely up to you and your personal circumstances. However, we’ve elaborated a list of pros and cons to further guide you during the decision making process.
For instance, upgrading your boiler presents several advantages but can also have potential drawbacks. Firstly, lets look at some of the advantages of switching to a new boiler, which include increased efficiency since as explained above, newer boilers are often more efficient than older models, which at the same time can lead to both a reduction in both your energy bills and carbon emissions.
In addition, improved heating and the amount of hot water available are also some of the advantages involved, enhanced safety since new boilers also tend to be safer than their older counterparts, with features such as automatic shut-off and improved ventilation systems and lastly, an increase in the value of your home. New boilers can also potentially increase your home’s value, making it a more attractive option for potential buyers.
On the other side of the coin, there are also downsides to upgrading your boiler. One of the most notable drawbacks is the upfront cost of upgrading your heating system, as it tends to be quite expensive and is also determined by the installation costs, which will vary depending on which model you choose and the complexity of the installation as a whole.
Secondly, the disruption that it causes. Installing a new boiler can be a disruptive event in your day to day life, leading to a potential downtime for heating and hot water supply during the installation procedure.
Other disadvantages also include the compatibility of your home’s existing heating system with a new boiler which may not be compatible without additional modifications and of course the environmental impact. While it is true that newer boilers are often more efficient and thus environmentally friendlier than older boilers, their manufacturing and transportation can have a negative impact on the environment.
All in all, the final decision of when is the right time for a boiler upgrade will solely be your decision to make, taking into consideration the factors, advantages and disadvantages highlighted above. It is therefore important to consider all of these aspects while also consulting with a professional to determine which is the best option for your home.
