GETTING TO KNOW YOUR NEW HOME’S BOILER

If you’re planning to move house soon, then checking the condition and quality of your new home’s boiler should be top of your to-do-list. Many of us may forget about these vital checks or expect them to be part of the home survey report, however this is not always the case. Failing to check your new home’s boiler could lead to unexpected, hefty bills as soon as you move in.

So, what do you need to know about your new home’s boiler? Here are a few key things to consider:

1. The type of boiler it is
There are three main types of boilers, all of which are suitable for different homes:

• Combi – This is the most popular type of boiler, suitable for most homes. Combi boilers provide both heat and hot water, with no need for water tanks or cylinders. They are very cost-effective and energy-efficient.
• System – This type of boiler is most suitable for larger homes with more than one bathroom. System boilers require a cylinder for storing hot water, however no water tank is needed. Many of the key components are built into the boiler unit itself.
• Conventional – These include a cold-water tank and a hot water cylinder to deliver hot water from multiple taps at once. These are typically ideal for households with multiple bathrooms, where a lot of hot water is used at the same time.

As a new home buyer, you should know which type of boiler is in the house, so you know what you’re inheriting.

2. The make and model
Ask the seller for information regarding your boiler, or take a look for yourself. You need to find out the make and model of the boiler so you can check out how reliable the brand is.

3. The age of the boiler
The average lifetime of a well-maintained boiler is around 10 to 15 years, depending on the type of boiler installed. If the boiler in your new home is old, you will need to ensure you have funds set aside to replace it soon.

4. The quality of the boiler
Whilst carrying out checks across the home, it’s important you also check the quality of the boiler to see how well it’s been looked after. You can check the quality by simply inspecting the boiler for signs of rust, leaks, damp or dirt.

5. When was the boiler last serviced?
The seller should have a Gas Certificate to prove the boiler has been installed professionally, and ideally, service contract documentation detailing annual service history. The boiler should have been checked within the previous 12 months. If not, then you should arrange to get this done shortly after you move in.

6. Ensure the boiler is working correctly
This may seem all too obvious, but the best way to ensure the boiler is working correctly is to ask for a demonstration. As this is an expensive item to replace, ask the seller as many questions as you feel necessary to give you peace of mind.
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