From toasty cups of cocoa and changing leaves in Central Park, there are plenty of things to look forward to in the fall and winter, especially in New York. However, cold weather is more enjoyable when you have a cozy, warm home to return to. Before the temperatures drop, it is a good idea to consider whether your boiler needs replacing. These are just a few of the signs that it might be time for a new one.
1. Age
Boilers can last up to 15 years, but if yours is more than ten years old, it might be time to consider a replacement. Not only are older boilers more likely to fail unexpectedly, leaving you unprepared for the weather, but they are also more likely to be inefficient. Updating your boiler to a 98% efficient one can save you big on your heating bills.
2. Water Leakage
While this may seem like a benign problem, water leaks coming from your boiler could be a sign of something more serious. Untreated, water leaks can lead to dangerous carbon monoxide leaks. Similarly, a yellow flame instead of a healthy blue one could indicate a carbon monoxide leak. It is better to play it safe and replace a boiler earlier rather than dealing with a bigger problem later on.
3. Noises
Although you may have become used to the little rattling or hissing sounds of your boiler, these sounds are not an indication of a healthy boiler. These sounds often are the warning signs before a boiler breaks down or a sign that it is not running efficiently, perhaps only at 50-70% efficiency.
4. Not Warm Enough
Point-blank, if you find yourself bundling up at night or having to wear socks around the house, your boiler may just not be performing as well as you would like. Rather than put up with these discomforts through the whole winter, it is at least worth considering a new system.
It seems intimidating to think about purchasing a brand-new boiler, but it may cheaper than you think to replace your system, especially in the long-run with reduced energy costs. Contact Kew Forest Plumbing & Heating Inc. to learn about you options for green heating this fall and winter.
