Is Your Old Heating System Still Adequate?
You stare at your boiler, contemplating whether or not it’s seen better days. Don’t be too hasty, it might still have a little life left in it. But how long should you use your old heating system? How do you tell when it’s time for a new boiler?
With this easy guide, we’ll teach you the ins and outs of heating systems and what to do if you think it’s time for a new boiler.
Common Issues With Cold Weather
Cold weather may bring about potential issues in your home, but an old heating system is probably one of the most crucial systems to worry about. There are certain steps you should take if you want your home heating system to perform over the next few months.
One of the best ways to prevent failure of your old heating system is to schedule professional maintenance. Having a professional examine your system is an opportunity to uncover and fix potential problems before they have time to develop.
Weatherproofing can also keep your old heating system working efficiently. By sealing windows and unused doors, you can defend against drafts. It’s also best to make sure all hearing vents are unblocked by furniture so that warm air is evenly distributed throughout the home.
With an old heating system, you could consider upgrading to a newer, more efficient model. If you do, be sure to install a set-back thermostat – this thermostat automatically turns down the heat when you’re away at work or when you’re sleeping at night, and then boosts the temperature to a comfortable level when you need it.
Despite prompt repairs and regular maintenance, there will come a time when you just can’t keep a system operating properly anymore. If you’re not confident your system will work through another winter, it might be time to consider replacing it.
When Should You Replace Your Boiler?
There isn’t a time rule or guideline to know when to replace your radiator. Boilers usually last around 10 to 15 years or longer. But, their lifespan depends on quality and maintenance. If your boiler breaks down a lot and you’re constantly having to call a repairman to come to fix it… you need a new boiler.
Here are some other signs your old heating systems need replacing:
- Expensive energy bills
- Increased humidity (in the home)
- Allergies
- Visible damage
These factors are tell-tale signs that you’ll need to replace your heating system. But, if your radiator or boiler is less than a decade old, don’t replace it. Call an engineer instead to take a look at it to figure out the problem. The longer you put off replacing your old radiator or boiler, the more difficult it’ll be to find parts. Replacing the heating system in an old house might be difficult, but it isn’t impossible. Call a professional to inspect the heating in your old home, they’ll tell you what they think.
Efficiency
If your old-style central heating system isn’t holding up, it might be time for a change. Not all radiators are equal, but they aren’t. The performance of most home heating systems has improved in the last few decades.
Some modern radiators are 50 percent more efficient than the ones made in the year 2000. The increased efficiency of newer heating systems decreases the cost of heating bills. Likewise, newer radiators use less water because the hot water comes into contact with more surface space. If don’t know if your radiator is the right size for the room, use a BTU calculator.
Replacing Your Old Heating System
There are a few things to note before replacing your old heating system. First, check the warranty — if it’s under a decade old, there’s a problem. Radiators and boilers tend to last for about a decade or more.
A common heating system found in old homes is a warm-air furnace. This type of furnace is fueled by one of three things; oil, gas, or electricity. If you have one, it’s best to replace it. Today, gas and oil furnaces are about 85 percent more efficient than models found in older houses. If you’re thinking about replacing your heating old-style central heating system, call a professional to make sure it needs replacing. You can’t fix something that’s not broken.
Be sure to talk to a professional about whether you’ll need to replace your system in the near future. Give us a call or write us here when you’re ready to upgrade – we can help you save money and time in the long run.