The American Boiler Manufacturers Association (ABMA) states the identified Design Life expectations range from 20‐35 years for boilers and power plants (Specification Design Life Requirements and Implications Relative to Boilers). And there are a few things to consider regarding when to replace a boiler.

Industrial Boiler

There are many reasons why boilers have such a wide, 10-year range of useful life., according to the ABMA. “Ongoing maintenance, preventive maintenance and/or multiple replacements throughout the operational life of the plant may be necessary and appropriate depending on the particular component and operational conditions. Failure to diligently inspect and/or to maintain the equipment, to provide for appropriate preventative maintenance or to take mitigating action to address wear and degradation can lead to component failures, necessitate premature repair and replacement, or lead to a reduced overall life expectancy of the plant or its components.”

Trap energy observes first-hand the importance of maintenance. We addressed this topic in some of our recent blog posts: Boiler Inspections Increase Boiler Room Safety & Operational Efficiency, Descaling Services for Boilers, Water Heaters, and Ignoring Steam Traps Causes Significant Losses.

Repair vs Replace

It often makes sense to make repairs to boilers. Factors impacting repairing instead of replacing include:

  • The boiler has had consistent maintenance.
  • Repairs are infrequent.
  • Repairs are not too costly.

But, like a favorite old car, there comes a time when it seems like the boiler repairs are constant and the cost is starting to approach the price of something new. And this doesn’t even factor in the cost saving efficiencies you will realize with a new system.

Things to look for are:

  • Reduced efficiency
  • Noises
  • Ongoing repairs

How to Decide – Get an Inspection

A great place to start your decision process about a new boiler is to schedule an inspection. This will tell you what issues are going on with your boiler and whether it makes the most sense to address the problems or just replace the system.

If you have an aging boiler system, Trap Energy Solutions is a valuable resource. Garrett Trapnell, Trap’s Principal, provides unique insight because of his background in boiler inspections. The company offers maintenance solutions as well as a variety of state-of-the-art boiler solutions, so they will give you an honest evaluation and guidance about repairing or replacing.

Contact:

Garrett Trapnell (Owner - Trap Energy Solutions)

P: (612) 865-5366 E: garrett@trap.energy


Written for Trap Energy Solutions by Nicholas Marketing