A quick Google search reveals that a boiler should last for around 10 to 15 years. But how do you really know when the time has come to replace it? We take a look.
The very first thing to do is remove the idea in your mind that your boiler has an expiry date. Yes, a quick Google search will tell you that with regular maintenance and servicing the average UK gas boiler will last anything from 10 to 15 years - but in Germany, the very same boiler lasts for 20 years.
What’s going on here?
In short, it’s a marketing myth, and an effective one at that (think back to the De Beers’ campaign stating that engagement rings should cost the equivalent of one month’s salary. It’s a great way to boost revenue).
We’re here to help you really understand when your boiler needs replacing, so that you get the most out of it.
The short answer is “no”. The long answer is “it depends on so many factors”.
Let’s look at some data. We analysed data from Building Control notifications (required for every boiler replacement), which shows that UK households are replacing their gas boilers halfway through their lifetime. Our findings show that the majority of UK boilers are replaced from the 8-year mark onwards, with an average of 77.7% being replaced between 8 and 15 years. This is a pretty high figure, especially when we now know boilers could last for another 5 to 12 years.
If we delve a little further, it becomes evident that the data is skewed: this is because there is no accessible data in the UK for boilers over 15 years old. The Gas Safe Register currently has a policy to remove data beyond that age. Data on those boilers which last 16+ years – replaced under the previous CORGI regime which ended in 2009 – isn’t available (at least not digitally). Little wonder that marketing machines can push the 10-to-15-year replacement message and no one can dispute it.
This doesn’t feel right to us. We’ve written about the data that Gas Safe Register holds ([link: https://www.thermly.co.uk/articles/unlocking-the-gas-safety-register]) and we will continue to bang the drum for the release of data for the good of the UK’s clean heat economy. In the meantime, we want you to know that with proper installation and regular maintenance, your boiler can last longer than you’re told it can.
There are some things you should look out for which can give you an indication that something may be wrong:
Just because your heat pump is nearing its 10th birthday, doesn't mean it needs to be replaced. If it isn’t showing any signs of the above, then it’s likely that there’s more life in the old dog yet!
However, now is the time to start considering your options and planning ahead! Research other ways to heat your home. Think about the longer term; how can you reduce energy bills and emissions? Can you make your home more carbon neutral?
What about Government directives? In the next few years, there is likely to be a phasing out of gas boilers, so you’ll also need to think how you can future proof your home. It may also be worth looking into grants and their deadlines - the Boiler Upgrade Scheme can help cover installation costs, up to £7,500 - but it won’t be around forever.
There’s a lot to think about, but while your boiler still has life in it, we recommend using the time wisely. The worst thing to happen is for your gas boiler to break, and you have to make a last-minute decision and replace it like for like. You’re just kicking the can down the road (although if that does happen, our Distress Service insert link to distress page] can buy you time).
We have quite a few articles that give you more background about the benefits of a heat pump for your home:
Want to find out more? Get in touch via our contact form https://www.thermly.co.uk/contact or call our team on 0800 029 3129.
Our short Heat Pump Readiness Assessment is free, and only takes a few minutes. Sometimes a bit longer with a cup of tea...
