Can boilers last 20 years?

Unfortunately, this isn’t a yes or no question. It’s more of a ‘yes with an asterisk’. Proper maintenance with boiler spare parts can allow a boiler to last well past 20 years with minor losses in efficiency. There are other factors which can either increase or decrease the lifespan of your boiler though. 

In this blog, we’ll cover how boiler replacement parts can improve the longevity of household heating systems, how boilers lose efficiency, and why this is important. 

What Impacts a Boiler’s Lifespan?

The consensus is residential boilers last between 15-20 years. However, this can easily be extended with a little knowledge and application. This is because the lifespan of a boiler is conditional on its environment and how well it’s being maintained. For example, boiler overuse or prolonged periods of inactivity can lead to degradation. Here are some other factors to be aware of: 

Equipment Quality 

The boiler manufacturing process directly impacts how long vital system parts will last. Equipment created using low-quality materials is more likely to require replacement with heating spares. While a boiler containing high-quality equipment will cost more upfront, it’s likely to need less work long-term. 

Environmental Conditions 

A boiler can have years taken off its lifespan by extreme environmental conditions. This includes high levels of heat, moisture, dust, and debris. In these environments boilers are subjected to higher levels of stress, resulting in equipment wear. Environmental boiler damage can be identified by discolouration, warping or corrosion.  

Introducing a controlled environment can extend a boiler’s lifespan. This can be done by installing weatherproofing measures and performing regular cleaning.   

Frequency of Boiler Maintenance 

Every boiler, regardless of quality, needs maintenance checks to keep it running efficiency. One of the main reasons for this is limescale build-up, which occurs naturally over time. Conducting regular boiler maintenance allows potential issues to be identified ahead of time. This helps prevent major boiler malfunctions, while also working to ensure safe use. 

Maintenance that can be performed by an owner includes: 

• Calibration 
• Water treatment and topping up 
• Cleaning  
• Inspection and testing of various parts(valves, gaskets, surfaces) 

Boiler Upgrades 

An old boiler can have its lifespan extended with the addition of modern upgrades. Up to date heating spares are a cost-effective option compared to getting a brand-new boiler installed. Parts that improve running reduce the risk of wear and tear. 

NBS offers a range of boiler replacement parts for both old and new models. Our big list of brands means with us you’ll be able to upgrade your heating system no matter what. 

The Importance of Boiler Efficiency 

Loss of boiler efficiency can cost you a ton in bills. For a high efficiency, look for an operational percentage of between roughly 85-95%.  

All the factors discussed above, when addressed, can improve boiler efficiency and drive costs down. Retrofitting your boiler with newer parts can make it more environmentally friendly through lower energy consumption. 

Conclusion 

If you’re looking for boiler spare parts UK, you can’t do better than NBS. We deliver all over the UK, EU, and the rest of the world with next day delivery available. 

We also offer a refurbishment service to bring your old boiler parts back up to factory specification. Contact us today.