Different types of boilers can have different lifespans. There are a few things to consider when deciding if it is time to replace your boiler. The following few paragraphs will focus on 5 points that will help you decide if 2021 is the year to replace the boiler in a multi-family apartment building or commercial space such as a hotel, hospital, office, plant, or school in 2021.
Age | Is it time to replace my boiler?
What is the life expectancy of your type of boiler? Even though proper boiler room maintenance can ensure your boiler operates reliably to the end or past its life expectancy, your boiler will only last so long. Scotch Marine Boilers, made of steel, can last over 50 years. Cast Iron Sectional Boilers can last between 20 and 30 years. The newer Condensing Boilers have a life expectancy of 15 to 20 years.
Are Replacement Parts Available
If a manufacturer discontinues your boiler model or goes out of business, it is time to plan for a replacement. Discontinuing a boiler model is a more common occurrence for Condensing Boilers. As this technology develops and companies attempt to establish dominance in the marketplace, the current models can become quickly obsoleted and replaced. Cast Iron Sectional Boiler manufacturers may stop making replacement sections. This issue doesn’t plague Scotch Marine Boilers as they are made of steel and can be weld repaired. However, a Scotch Marine Boiler’s burner may become obsoleted and need replacing. Replacing the burner is typically a one-day repair and, if you live in New York City, will require filing and permitting from the NYC DOB.
Efficiency
A good boiler maintenance program will keep your current boiler operating efficiently, reliably, and safely. If the newer boilers are much more efficient than your boiler, the potential fuel cost savings may make a boiler replacement cost-effective or lucrative. In New York City, the Department of Buildings (NYC DOB) has enacted a new local law, LL97, levying fines against buildings over 25,000 square feet that do not meet escalating emissions standards by 2024 and 2030.
Cost – Rebates Available
Relacing a boiler is an expensive endeavor. Check for available federal and local government programs that offer low or no-cost financing or rebates. Your local gas utility and the manufacturer may offer rebates. In New York State the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) provides rebates for energy monitoring and energy saving boiler projects. The local natural gas utilities in New York City’s Five Boroughs (Con Edison and National Grid) offer various rebates for boiler replacements, boiler control upgrades, and boiler maintenance. Some agencies have overlapping rebates and often don’t only allow one project to obtain similar rebates. Choose the rebate that best applies to your boiler replacement project and yields the highest savings.
Heat and Hot Water Services During Replacement
During a boiler replacement, your heating system could be offline for weeks to several months. Deciding when to replace your boiler can have a significant impact on the cost of your project. Requiring a temporary heat or hot water source can add a lot of expense to your boiler replacement project. Temporary heat and hot water sources range from electric space heaters and temporary water heaters to a Mobile Boiler. Whichever you chose, it will make your boiler replacement project more expensive. An engineer or qualified contractor like CC Controlled Combustion Co. Inc. can help guide you through this process.