If you’re one of the many Maine homeowners using an oil or gas-fired boiler to heat your home in the winter, you know the importance of it working properly when you need it most. One of the questions we often hear at Valley Home Services is, “When should I upgrade my boiler?” The answer to that question depends on several factors, including the age of your unit and the types of issues you’ve been having with it.
Boilers do wear out eventually and need to be replaced. On the other hand, it might just need boiler maintenance and cleaning. Here are some tips to tell if you need an upgrade or a boiler cleaning.
When To Upgrade Your Boiler
Boiler Age and Efficiency
The age of your system is a major factor to consider when deciding to upgrade. Boiler lifespan is typically between 15 and 20 years. If your boiler is in this age range and you’re having frequent problems, it might be time for a new one. A newer model or a propane boiler upgrade will give you better energy efficiency with significant savings on your utility bills.
Repair Costs
As your boiler ages, heating system maintenance and repair costs will go up. A good rule of thumb is that if your heating system is over 5 years old and annual repair costs exceed $1,400, or if you’re calling for repairs three or more times a year, it may be more cost effective to upgrade.
Boiler Rebates and Incentives
Check for available rebates and grants for energy-efficient boiler upgrades. Many states, including Maine, and the federal government offer these incentives, and they can make an upgrade much more attractive.
Performance Issues
If your boiler is no longer providing enough heat in your home, is providing uneven heating, or is taking a long time to heat up, it might be nearing the end of its serviceable life. A professional inspection can tell you whether you need heating system maintenance or a replacement.
When to Clean Your Boiler
Type of Boiler
The kind of fuel used in your system has a big impact on how often you need boiler cleaning. Gas-fired boilers, including those requiring propane services, burn cleaner and require less maintenance than oil-fired boilers. However, they still need regular inspections for safety and to maintain peak efficiency.
Maintenance Schedule
To keep your system operating properly at its best energy efficiency, and to prolong its lifespan, maintaining a regular maintenance schedule is essential. Many of the problems commonly experienced with boilers are caused by neglecting proper maintenance and cleaning. While oil-fired boilers require cleaning at least once a year due to clogging issues, gas-fired boilers can be cleaned less frequently but still require regular inspections and maintenance, ideally at the end of each heating season to allow time for repairs or replacement before the next season.
Signs of Soot or Debris
If you notice soot buildup around your boiler, it’s a sign that it might need to be cleaned to prevent efficiency loss and potential safety hazards
Contact Valley Home Heating when you need propane services within a 30-mile radius of Hermon, Maine.
