Most businesses wait until their commercial boiler breaks down before replacing it. They think that by doing so, they maximize the unit’s lifespan and save on costs. On the contrary, it will only increase their building expenses. Prolonging a damaged boiler’s lifespan could damage your property or nearby structures. Think of all the repair stress and fees this would entail.
When you notice little kinks here and there, take them as hints and don’t ignore them. Here are five signs that tell you to replace your boiler immediately:
1. How old is your boiler?
Your maintenance department should keep a record of your boiler—when did you buy it and what repairs did it have, if any? Doing this should help you assess its performance.
Typically, commercial boilers last between 15 and 20 years. After this, they should be replaced even if they are still working. Cast iron boilers last longer, but they only become less efficient over time. It’s more practical to buy or rent a new one.
2. Loud noises
As a boiler gets old, it could start making loud, banging noises. Consider these sounds as a desperate cry for help. They could be coming from worn-out bearings, blockages in the system, or pressure problems. If a boiler’s water pressure is too low, this could create cavitation in its operation. It causes the pump to double-time, increasing the noise in the process.
When you hear strange noises in your boiler, ask an engineer to locate the source, and identify the problem. Some issues are still fixable, but if your boiler is close to 15 years anyway, it’s best to buy a new one instead.
3. Leakage
Leaks are dangerous not only for the boiler but also for your property. They may cause water damage that would be very difficult and expensive to fix. As such, regular maintenance of commercial boilers should include checking for leaks.
Look if the body has cracks or if the seals are dissolving. Ask your building engineers if the holes are fixable and if the boiler is still worth repairing. If they recommend replacing the entire thing, listen to the experts and do not attempt to outstretch your boiler.
4. Uneven temperatures
When you notice that some parts of a room get hot while other spots remain cold, this is a clear sign that your boiler’s controls have damages. Fixing them would only be a band-aid solution. When this happens, it’s best to replace your boilers altogether.
5. Performance
Old commercial boilers perform poorly as compared to new ones. It’s just part of the natural laws of wear-and-tear. Typically, a 50-year-old cast iron boiler has an efficiency of about 70 per cent. Newer ones made of stainless steel perform at around 98 per cent. Choosing to replace your boilers will significantly increase the efficiency of your building’s heating system. You will be able to save on gas and electricity bills and spare you the hassle of frequent repairs.
Replacing your boiler is a huge financial investment, but the returns are worth it. New ones require less maintenance, perform better, and are more cost and energy-efficient.
If you find that your boiler needs replacing but you can’t afford a new one immediately, get a temporary boiler for hire from London Climate Hire. Get in touch with us to see how we can help!