Repair or replace your boiler?

When a boiler breaks down, the first question is usually whether it is time for a new one. We fix boilers and we fit boilers, so here is how we would decide for our own homes.

Repair is usually right when

• The boiler is under 10 years old
• It has been serviced regularly
• The part is available and the repair is a small share of the cost of a new boiler
• It has not broken down several times in the last year

Many faults, such as a diverter valve, a fan, a pump or a pressure sensor, are routine repairs that give the boiler years more life.

Replacement is worth considering when

• The boiler is over 12 to 15 years old and breaking down more often
• Parts for your model are discontinued or very expensive
• The heat exchanger has failed, which is often one of the most expensive repairs
• Your household has changed, for example an extra bathroom or a loft conversion, and the boiler no longer keeps up

The numbers we will give you

On a repair visit we tell you what is wrong, what the repair costs, and whether we think it is good value. If a new boiler makes more sense, we explain why and give you a free written quote. We never push a replacement on a repair call, and the decision is always yours.

Before you call

Check the basics: is the pressure between 1 and 1.5 bar, is the gas on at the meter, and is the thermostat calling for heat? Our guide to repressurising a combi boiler covers the most common fix. If that does not sort it, book a boiler repair.