There will come a time when you need a gas boiler replacement. Perhaps for this very reason you are here today reading our blog post. A boiler replacement is not cheap so it’s important to make an informed decision before you invest in one.
The standard boiler lasts for 10-15 years. Anything longer than this amount of time and you run the risk of causing problems for yourself in the long run. According to the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) after 15 years gas boilers efficiency can drop to 60%.
In terms of your peace of mind, a gas boiler replacement is also safer and vastly more reliable than older gas boilers. They are such a crucial part of your central heating system that you want to make the right decisions which will effect the next decade and more of your home life.
Without further ado, here are a few things to consider before a gas boiler replacement.
Boiler Assessment Before Replacement
It is always advisable to get your boiler checked by a Registered Gas Installer (RGI) first and foremost before investing in a replacement. Leave it to the professionals to determine if you really do require a new boiler or if you need a few moving parts upgraded instead.
A Registered Gas Installer will assess the overall efficiency of your boiler at present and make an educated decision, while taking into account your home heating requirements. You should ask them upon their visit the size and type of boiler they recommend for your house to weigh up all options.
Our gas boiler service analyses your boilers flue condition, working pressure and any spillages. Put simply, one of our engineers at Gas Safe will ensure everything is in working order.
Understand The Type Of Boiler You Need
While a Registered Gas Installer can explain what type and size of boiler you need for a gas boiler replacement there is no harm in doing your research. We are going to break it down for you right now as we find the average joe does not understand the ins and outs of boiler replacements. There are three main types of gas boilers in Ireland. These are combi boilers, heat-only boilers and system boilers.
- A combi boiler, also known as a combination boiler, is a popular choice for gas condensing boilers on the market. Conventional boilers heat separate tanks for your hot water and radiators. With a combi boiler both heat and hot water are provided on demand from the same unit.
- A heat-only boiler, also known as a conventional boiler, uses a storage system to conserve hot water for later use. They are more suitable to larger houses or if you live with two or more people.
- A system boiler is similar to a heat-only boiler where it focuses primarily on heat that works alongside your central heating system. A system boiler has more components and is most suitable for a family home where a lot of hot water is in demand. A separate hot water tank exists which takes some time to heat up in contrast with a combi boiler.
Gas Boiler Replacement Grant Scheme
The SEAI have a grant scheme in place for homeowners wishing to upgrade to a high efficiency condensing boiler. Under the Better Energy Homes Scheme, those who wish to improve their energy efficiency at home, such as purchasing a new oil or gas boiler can receive up to €700 towards the cost.
All homeowners with a home built before 2006 may apply for a gas boiler replacement grant in Ireland. It should be noted that work must commence after grant approval. Further information on the list of criteria for the Better Energy Homes Scheme can be found here.
Gas Boiler Replacement Advice
For gas boiler replacement advice Gas Safe are your one-stop-shop. Always remember, your gas boiler should be installed by a qualified and experienced boiler installer. Under law only Registered Gas Installers may carry out any domestic gas installation work.
Call us today on 01 969 5219 or email info@gassafe.ie for all your heating and plumbing requirements throughout Ireland.
