If you’ve lived through a Calgary winter, you already know your boiler isn’t just a nice-to-have, but an essential. But boilers don’t last forever, and when they start showing their age, it can lead to bigger problems like high gas bills, uneven heat, and costly breakdowns. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top signs your boiler might be ready for retirement and what to do about it.
How Long Do Boilers Typically Last in Alberta?
Most residential boilers in Canada last between 15 and 20 years. But Calgary’s dry air, freeze-thaw cycles, and occasional hard water issues can take a toll. Over time, even a well-maintained boiler can start to lose efficiency, struggle to meet your home’s needs, or cost you more in boiler repairs and energy.
Typical boiler lifespan in Canadian winters
Boilers installed in Alberta tend to wear faster than those in milder climates. Constant cycling during deep freezes accelerates wear on pumps, valves, and seals.
Calgary-specific wear and tear
Freeze-thaw conditions can cause expansion stress in piping and components, especially in older homes. Hard water buildup (scaling) is also a concern in certain Calgary neighborhoods.
Cost of keeping vs replacing an old boiler
If your unit is over 15 years old, you may be spending more on energy and repairs than you would on a high-efficiency replacement. Plus, newer branded models often come with rebates and better warranties.
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Sign #1: Your Boiler Is Over 15 Years Old
Age is one of the biggest indicators that it’s time for a replacement. Most boilers start to lose efficiency after 12–15 years, and by year 20, you’re likely pushing your luck.
Older boilers can dip below 70% efficiency, while new condensing models hit 95%+ AFUE. More than that, outdated models may require hard-to-source parts, driving up repair costs and wait times. Finally, older units may lack modern safety features like overheat protection, leak sensors, or carbon monoxide shutoffs.
Sign #2: Repairs Are Getting More Frequent or Expensive
Needing a tune-up now and then is normal, but if your boiler seems to break down every winter (or every month), that’s a problem. Repetitive problems often point to bigger internal wear, not just a faulty part, but a failing system. Cracked heat exchangers, corroded burners, or failing pumps are signs your system is wearing out.
A good rule of thumb: if repairs cost more than 50% of a new boiler, it’s time to upgrade.
Sign #3: Your Heating Bills Keep Going Up
Aging boilers lose efficiency, and that means more gas usage to heat the same space.
Even without visible issues, an old boiler could be costing you 20–30% more in fuel every year. In a city where January highs often sit below -10°C, inefficient equipment drives up your bills fast.
Newer condensing boilers use less fuel, recycle exhaust heat, and come with smart modulation to match your heating needs in real time.
Sign #4: Uneven Heat or Cold Zones in Your Home
If your upstairs feels like a sauna but the basement is an icebox, your boiler might be struggling.
Old pumps and restricted pipes make it hard to push heat through your entire home evenly. Without proper zoning or output capacity, older boilers can’t keep up with multi-level heat distribution.
Slow radiator heating, cold bathrooms, or delayed hot water are all indicators of a mismatched or failing boiler.
Sign #5: You Notice Leaks, Noises, or Strange Smells
Boilers should be quiet, sealed, and safe. If they aren’t, something’s wrong.
Water near the base, around piping, or under the boiler is a red flag, often pointing to internal corrosion or a cracked heat exchanger. Also, rumbling sounds often indicate limescale buildup or trapped air, both signs of poor circulation or age-related wear.
Lastly, burning smells could be electrical. Metallic smells might mean overheating. Musty smells could signal mold in damp areas.
Sign #6: Your Home’s Needs Have Changed
Today’s homes are different from those of 10 years ago. And your boiler should keep up.
More square footage or water usage requires more output. Older boilers often fall short. Hydronic systems work best with modern condensing boilers that can modulate temperature for radiant loops.
Many homeowners are switching to space-saving combi boilers that handle both heat and hot water.
Sign #7: You Want to Take Advantage of Rebates or Financing
Upgrading your system doesn’t have to mean emptying your savings. High-efficiency boilers are eligible for rebates and typically pay for themselves in energy savings within a few years.
Qualifying homeowners can receive thousands in rebates when replacing outdated equipment. Comfort Union offers flexible financing so you can upgrade now and pay over time, interest-free in many cases.
Repair or Replace? How to Make the Right Call
If your boiler is under 10 years old and only needs minor repairs, it may not be time to replace. But if you’re seeing multiple signs from this list, replacement is likely more cost-effective in the long run. Always get a professional opinion from people like Comfort Union. We provide honest, pressure-free assessments so you can make the best choice for your home and budget.
FAQs About Boiler Replacement in Calgary
Does a 20-year-old boiler need replacing?
Yes, especially in Calgary’s long winters. Older boilers lose efficiency, struggle to keep up with cold snaps, and often require costly repairs. Upgrading improves comfort and lowers energy bills.
How do I know if my boiler needs replacing?
In Calgary, signs include rising gas bills, cold spots in your home, strange noises, or constant service calls—especially if your boiler is 15+ years old.
How do you know when it's time for a new boiler?
When your current system can’t keep your home warm during a Calgary cold spell, or you’re calling for repairs more than once a year, it’s time to upgrade.
How do you know when to replace a boiler?
If repairs cost 50% or more of a new install, or your boiler’s efficiency drops during Calgary’s harsh winters, replacement is the smarter investment.
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