Should I repair or replace my boiler?

Should I Repair or Replace My Boiler?

This is the most common question our engineers face on emergency callouts. Here's a framework for making the right decision:

The 50% Rule

If a repair costs more than 50% of the cost of a new equivalent boiler, replacement is almost always the better financial decision.

Key Factors to Consider

Boiler age:

• Under 8 years — repair (assuming parts available)
• 8–12 years — assess repair cost against replacement
• Over 12 years — replacement usually more cost-effective

Repair history:

• First significant repair — usually worth doing
• Second or third major repair — consider replacement
• Repeated small faults — often precursor to major failure

Efficiency:

• A boiler over 15 years old typically runs at 70–78% efficiency
• Modern A-rated boilers run at 92–98% efficiency
• The efficiency gain alone may pay for the replacement over 3–5 years

Parts availability:

• Parts for boilers over 15 years can be scarce and expensive
• Some discontinued models have no parts available

RARE's Honest Approach

Our engineers will always give you an honest assessment. We'll quote for the repair and — if replacement makes more sense — quote for that too. We don't push replacement to boost revenue.

Call 020 7458 4949 for a diagnosis.