According to Buzz Sumo, there were 22,200 searches for the phrase “new boiler” in November 2022, a 174% increase from July, with Google Trend data showing this figure set to increase further. Similarly, there were 9,900 searches for “boiler replacement” in November 2022, a 125% increase from July of the same year.

Google Trend data indicates that ‘new boiler’ related searches are at their highest at the start and end of the year. With that said, is it time for a new boiler as 2023 approaches? The heating experts at Village Heating are sharing common signs that indicate it might be time for an upgrade.

Strange noises
If your boiler is making unusual sounds, it could be struggling. Noises like whistling, knocking, popping and hissing are signs of potential uneven water distribution, or air bubbles forming in the pipes.

Always having to adjust the thermostat
A working boiler should maintain the temperature you have selected for a set time. If you are having to fiddle with the thermostat to maintain your desired temperature, then it could be a sign of a faltering boiler.

Water leaking
Perhaps the most noticeable sign of a broken boiler, excessive leakage and scaling around the pipes and boiler should be looked out for. It is normal for some leakage to happen over time with a boiler, but if it starts to happen frequently and in a higher volume, it might be time for a new system.

Frequent repairs required
Every boiler will need repairs once in a while – no system is invincible. However, if you notice that you are calling out repair companies and shelling out for work to be done on your boiler regularly, then it’s definitely time for an upgrade.

Prevent premature breakdowns with boiler servicing
One of the best ways to prevent your boiler from breaking down prematurely is to regularly get it serviced. Boiler servicing allows engineers to identify any potential issues and rectify them before they worsen and become a serious risk to health. In the Winter months, this is particularly useful, as the colder temperatures can prove to be particularly troublesome for central heating and plumbing systems. One of the most dangerous problems that boilers can face is gas leaks, which can be catastrophic if left untreated.

As well as detecting potential problems, servicing is also used to help prolong the lifespan and maintain the efficiency of the system. Over time, boilers’ performance levels can drop as their components wear down and the system is affected by things such as sludge, rust and limescale buildup. Regular servicing allows engineers to monitor these issues and take the correct action where necessary to ensure your boiler remains efficient.

When should my first boiler service take place?
It is generally recommended that the first service for your new boiler should take place a year from the date it is installed, although some manufacturers also recommend 24 months from the installation date is an acceptable time period. This timeframe is the case for all reputable boiler manufacturers, including:

Vaillant
Potterton
GlowWorm
Viessman
Baxi
Ideal
Worcester Bosch
Keston
After its initial servicing, your boiler should be serviced again, once every year.

Avoid DIY servicing
It can be tempting to attempt to service your boiler yourself, however there are a number of risks associated with DIY servicing. For one, you risk exacerbating any issues that exist or creating new problems in the process of attempting the service, but most importantly you could be putting the safety of you and those around you at risk. It is important that you seek the assistance of a qualified, registered professional engineer to assist you with your boiler repairs.