Repair or Replace? How to Know When Your Boiler is Past Its Prime

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February 21, 2026

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Let’s be honest; nobody wakes up in the morning excited about buying a new boiler. It’s one of those household expenses we all try to put off for as long as possible. If the radiators are warm and there’s hot water for the shower, the temptation is always to think, “it’s got another year in it.”

However, at West London Gas, we often see the other side of that coin. We see the panic when a 15-year-old system finally gives up during a cold snap in Ealing or Chiswick, leaving a family without heat when they need it most.

If you’ve been wondering about the health of your heating system, or if you received our recent email about boiler lifespans, this guide will help you decide whether to stick with your current system or if it’s time to consider a modern upgrade.

The 10-Year Rule of Thumb

The first question we are usually asked is, “How long should a boiler actually last?”

Generally speaking, a modern boiler will last between 10 and 15 years. This depends heavily on usage, the hardness of the water in your area, and, crucially, how well it has been maintained.

While some boilers can soldier on for longer, their efficiency drops significantly after this point. A boiler installed in 2005 is a very different beast from one installed in 2025. Modern condensing boilers operate at over 90% efficiency, whereas older models can waste a significant chunk of every pound you spend on gas.

5 Signs Your Boiler Needs Replacing

Replacement isn’t always triggered by a catastrophic failure. Often, your boiler will give you subtle hints that it is reaching the end of its natural life.

If you recognise any of the following, it might be time to book a survey:

Rising Energy Bills: If your usage hasn’t changed but your bills are creeping up, your boiler may be working twice as hard to generate the same amount of heat.
Frequent Repairs: If you are on first-name terms with the repair engineer, or if parts are becoming expensive and hard to source, you may be throwing good money after bad.
Noise: Older boilers often become noisier as they age, with kettling (banging) sounds or loud vibrations becoming the norm.
Inconsistent Heating: Do you have to constantly fiddle with the thermostat? Does the hot water run cold when the heating is on? These are signs of a struggling system.
Renovation Plans: If you are extending your kitchen or adding a bathroom, your old boiler may not have the power (kW output) to cope with the extra demand.

The Benefit of Being Proactive

The tipping point for many homeowners isn’t failure; it’s choice.

Choosing to replace your boiler before it breaks gives you the luxury of time. You can choose the exact model you want, schedule the installation for a time that suits you, and avoid the stress of an emergency call-out in the depths of winter.

Upgrading to a new, energy-efficient boiler installation also brings immediate benefits:

Warranties: New boilers come with manufacturer warranties ranging from 7 to 10 years, giving you a decade of peace of mind.
Smart Control: Modern systems pair perfectly with smart thermostats (like Nest or Hive), allowing you to control your heating from your phone.
Quiet Operation: You’ll be surprised at how silent a modern system is compared to an older unit.

Not Ready to Replace? Prioritise Servicing.

If your boiler is under 10 years old or seems to be running fine, you might not need a replacement yet. However, to keep it that way, annual maintenance is non-negotiable.

Regular boiler servicing is the only way to ensure your system runs efficiently and safely. It is also required to keep your manufacturer’s warranty valid. A well-serviced boiler is far less likely to suffer from the unexpected breakdowns that force an early replacement.

Trusted Advice, Not a Hard Sell

We know that a new boiler is a significant investment. That’s why we don’t believe in hard sells. We believe in giving you the facts so you can make the right decision for your home and budget.

West London Gas has been a trusted name in Acton, Kew, Richmond, and the surrounding areas for over 25 years. We are proud to be Which? Trusted Traders and Feefo Platinum Award winners, which means we value our reputation above everything else.

If you are unsure about the state of your current boiler, let’s have a chat.

We can offer a free consultation to assess your current system. If it’s got plenty of life left, we’ll tell you. If it’s time to upgrade, we can walk you through the most efficient options for your home.

Contact us today to book a survey or ask our friendly team for advice.