Old & obsolete boilers: repair, parts or replace?
Have an older or discontinued boiler? Here is what affects whether it can be repaired, the older models we are often asked about, and when replacement makes more sense.
Why older boilers are harder to repair
Once a boiler model stops being made, manufacturers and suppliers gradually stop stocking its parts. Some parts can still be found, others have a modern replacement, and some are no longer available at all. That is why a repair on an older boiler can take longer or may not be possible.
Older boilers are also usually less efficient than a modern condensing boiler. An older non-condensing boiler can waste a noticeable share of the gas it burns.
Common older models we are asked about
- Baxi: Bermuda back boilers, Combi 80 and 105, Solo, Barcelona
- Potterton: Netaheat, Suprima, Puma, Performa, Promax, Kingfisher
- Ideal: Mexico, Classic, Elan, Isar, icos
- Glow-worm: Hideaway, Fuelsaver, Swiftflow, Ultimate
- Vaillant: Turbomax, Ecomax, Thermocompact
- Worcester: 24i, 28i Junior, 240
- Saunier Duval: Thelia, Isomax, Isofast
- Vokèra: Excel, Mynute
- Ferroli: Optimax
- Chaffoteaux: Celtic, Britony
- Ravenheat: CSI
- Halstead: Best
- Alpha: CB
We can look at most older gas boilers, as long as the parts are readily available from our merchants. Send the model from the label or your paperwork, and photos of the boiler and any fault display, and we will tell you whether a diagnostic visit makes sense.
Back boilers and older open-flued boilers
A back boiler sits behind a gas fire in the fireplace. Many were fitted in the 1970s and 1980s. They and other older open-flued boilers draw air from the room, so ventilation, the flue and the condition of the appliance all need checking carefully. They should be serviced every year and checked straight away if you notice soot, staining, a yellow or lazy flame, or a carbon monoxide alarm.
Replacing a back boiler usually means a new boiler on a wall elsewhere, a new flue route and changes to the pipework. That is priced at a free survey.
Repair or replace?
- Repair can make sense when the fault is simple, parts are available and the boiler is otherwise in good condition.
- Replacement is usually the better option when parts are no longer available, faults keep coming back, or the boiler is unsafe or very inefficient.
- We explain the findings and both options with prices before you decide.
Brands we work on
Including older and discontinued makes such as Thorn, Trianco, Myson, Sabre, Halstead, Ravenheat and Powermax.
Booking & arrival
Heating People reviews the job, location and pricing before issuing a quote or invoice for advance payment. Once you have paid, your booking is confirmed.
A two-hour arrival window can be confirmed on the day. For a tenanted property, provide the landlord or agent authorisation and payment contact separately from the occupier access details. See parking, access and keys.