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When colder temperatures settle in, your home’s heating system needs to function at its best to keep you comfortable. If you use a boiler as your primary source of heat, you’ll enjoy years of use before the system starts to wear. But exactly how long do boilers last?
This informative guide explains everything you need to know about your boiler, including how long it will last on average, what you can do to extend a boiler’s lifespan, and how to tell when you need a replacement. The experts at Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, the most trusted HVAC contractor in Tulsa, reveal key facts about boiler maintenance and care below.
How Boilers Compare to Other Heating Systems
Every household needs to stay warm throughout the chilly winter months, but they may use various heating systems to do so. Furnaces can produce heat by using natural gas, oil, or electricity as a fuel source. These systems tend to last 15 to 20 years on average but require regular maintenance and care to avoid common problems.
Heat pumps make a great gas-free alternative to furnaces. These eco-friendly options don’t produce any heat through combustion but instead transfer existing heat from a natural source, such as geothermal heat. Heat pumps also serve as a dual heating and cooling system, so you don’t have to worry about having two separate HVAC systems.
Many homeowners prefer boilers as their primary source of heat because they tend to last longer than other systems. These whole-house heating systems are also highly efficient. Modern electric-powered boilers have an annual fuel utilization efficiency between 95% and 100%.
How Long Do Boilers Last?
It’s a slight myth that boilers can last up to 50 years or more. This impressive lifespan was the norm for bulky cast iron boilers used decades ago. Today, they aren’t a reliable option because of their size and cost to operate or install. Modern boilers don’t last as long as cast iron boilers, but they do have a fairly impressive lifespan with proper care.
How long do boilers last on average? Many homeowners can expect to get at least 20 years of use out of a boiler. However, some systems may only last about 15 years, while others can approach close to 30 years of use. It all depends on a few important factors.
Boiler Lifespan Factors: Common Issues That Impact Boiler Longevity
Some homeowners can operate their boiler for 25 to 30 years, while others need to replace theirs after 15 years of use. What causes this large discrepancy in the lifespan? Below, we break down some common reasons why some boilers tend to wear more quickly. Using this information, you can adjust your system to reap the most benefits from it.
Heat Settings and Overall Use
Do you set your thermostat higher than most people during the winter? Is your boiler always running to maintain such a high indoor temperature? If so, you’re more likely to experience issues with your boiler down the road.
More use means the system will face more wear and tear. You can try lowering your heat settings to reduce the wear on your system or take measures to promote warmth throughout the house, including:
- Using a fireplace or space heater
- Insulating the house
- Monitoring hot water use for both your shower and washing machine
Corrosion and Boiler Durability
Any sign of corrosion on your boiler can potentially decrease its lifespan. As the material continues to corrode over time, the system will begin to break down and eventually need replacement. It’s possible to add chemicals to the water supply to prevent corrosion.
Regular Maintenance
If you’re surprised to learn that boilers can last up to 30 years, but you always need to replace yours every 15 years, it means you’re likely neglecting proper maintenance. Many people who ask HVAC experts, “How long do boilers last?” expect the system to last for decades without issue. However, boilers will need regular maintenance if you want to get the most use out of them.
Schedule annual maintenance with an HVAC technician to ensure your boiler lasts a long time. The technician will clean parts of the system, tighten any loose connections, and lubricate moving parts to prevent friction.
What To Expect During Boiler Replacement
When it comes time to replace your worn-out system, make sure you enlist the help of knowledgeable HVAC technicians with plenty of experience installing boilers. They can equip your home with a brand-new boiler with an impressive efficiency rating so you can save on your heating costs. The installation time may take a few hours, or it could span a few days, depending on the scope of the project.
The process typically involves the following:
- Removing the old boiler
- Upgrading outdated pipes
- Fitting the new boiler and its accessories
- Testing the system to make sure it works properly
Your installer will walk you through the entire process and make sure you end up with a boiler that will meet your heating demands and budget. Remember to perform maintenance on your new boiler so you can prevent major repairs and issues that force you to replace it earlier than expected.
Contact Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing for Superior Boiler Services
After reading this post, you no longer have to ask, “How long do boilers last?” If your boiler starts to fail or you want to prolong its life, we’re the team you can count on. At Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, we specialize in repairing, replacing, and maintaining heating systems of all kinds, including boilers. Our technicians can make sure your home has a reliable heating system, whether you are installing a new furnace, seeking boiler repairs, or looking to switch to a heat pump. Contact us today at 918-262-5245 to schedule service.