Hot Water Boiler Lifetime

Lifetime of a hot water boiler, Michigan

The average water boiler lasts around 15 years. Neglecting basic maintenance can reduce the lifespan of your hot water boiler though. If you’re looking to learn more about how long your hot water boiler should last…

Basic Boiler Maintenance

You should flush your hot water boiler at least once a year. Otherwise, sediment from hard water can accumulate at the bottom of the tank.

When hard water sediments build-up, it hardens into what’s known as scale, which can reduce your water boiler’s energy efficiency and lifespan over time.

Note: waiting beyond 5 years to get your water boiler flushed could do more harm than good. This is because as scale sits, it can cause corrosion, which could create holes in your tank. Right now, the scale could be sealing those holes but when you flush it you may run the risk of flooding your basement.

If you know it’s been a few years since you had your water boiler flushed, contact a professional plumber to come out and take care of the water boiler. The tools we have often give us more flexibility when it comes to working on your water boiler.

A way to tell if you have a scale problem is if you hear rumbling or popping sounds coming from your water boiler. These noises are often because scale traps pockets of air and as the water heats, these pockets collapse to make those gurgling sounds.

Effects of Hard Water on a Hot Water Boiler

While drinking hard water won’t affect your health, we can’t say the same for your hot water boiler.

Hard water is rich in dissolved minerals, such as calcium and magnesium. Over time, these minerals collect at the bottom of your water boiler tank and form scale.

Scale can form your pipes to which can also cause major plumbing issues. Feel free to ask us about water filters that can help descale your water to preserve your pipes and water boiler.

The Best Boilers

In general, you get what you pay for. If you buy the cheapest boiler, you can’t expect it to last as long as the pricier models. For example, some water boilers have thicker linings to protect against corrosion, but those linings are more expensive.

When it’s time to replace your water boiler, we recommend choosing a model that’s in the middle of the price range. That way, you can have peace of mind that you’re getting a quality water boiler without breaking the bank. We can also help you strike the perfect balance between cost and quality.

Sings You Should Replace Your Boiler

When it comes to the lifespan of your water boiler there are a lot of variables. Depending on your make, model, and year, it may be best to contact a reliable plumber to replace your water boiler rather than have it repaired. Here are a few common replacement signs:

Water comes out rusty colored
Your water and heating bill keeps rising
Water won’t come out hot
Water boiler has extensive damages

These signs usually mean the water boiler is beyond repair, and it’s financially smarter to invest in a new one.

Need a Water Boiler Repair or Replacement?

If you’re unsure what your water boiler needs are, we’ll be more than happy to inspect your water boiler so you can plan your next steps. Our Greenville, Belding, and Livonia MI plumbers work hard to make sure all your plumbing needs are met. Feel free to reach out and request an estimate online or contact us by phone at (616) 225-9150.

Basic Boiler Maintenance

Effects of Hard Water on a Hot Water Boiler

The Best Boilers

Sings You Should Replace Your Boiler

Need a Water Boiler Repair or Replacement?

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