Common warning signs include no heat or hot water, unusual noises like banging or kettling sounds, water leaks around the unit, frequent pressure drops requiring you to refill the system, error codes on the display, radiators that don't heat evenly, or a sudden increase in energy bills. If you notice any of these issues, contact a licensed technician for diagnosis to prevent further damage.

Annual boiler maintenance is recommended, ideally before the heating season begins. Professional service includes checking the heat exchanger, testing safety controls, inspecting for leaks, verifying proper combustion, and cleaning components. Regular maintenance ensures safe operation, maintains efficiency, and helps identify potential issues before they cause system failure.

Most residential boilers last between 15 and 20 years with proper annual maintenance. High-efficiency condensing boilers from manufacturers like Navien, Viessmann, and Weil-McLain can exceed this range when serviced regularly. Factors affecting lifespan include water quality, maintenance frequency, and usage patterns. If your boiler is approaching 15 years old and requires frequent repairs, replacement with a high-efficiency model often makes more financial sense, especially with available FortisBC rebates.

If your boiler is under 10 years old and repair costs are reasonable, repair usually makes sense. For boilers over 15 years old with frequent breakdowns or major component failures like a cracked heat exchanger, replacement is often more cost-effective. Modern high-efficiency boilers use significantly less energy than older models, often reducing heating costs by 20 to 30 percent. We provide honest assessments and free estimates to help you make the best decision for your situation and budget.