Is your boiler on its last legs? Many homeowners across Wales and South West England don't realise their boiler is failing until it breaks down completely—usually on the coldest day of the year. Here are five warning signs to watch for.

1. Your boiler is over 15 years old

Most boilers have a lifespan of 10-15 years. If yours is approaching or past this age, it's likely running far less efficiently than modern models. A new A-rated boiler could cut your heating bills significantly.

2. Your energy bills keep rising

If your bills are climbing despite no change in your usage, your boiler may be losing efficiency. Older boilers can drop to 60-70% efficiency, meaning up to 40% of the energy you're paying for is wasted.

3. You're calling for repairs more often

The occasional repair is normal, but if you're calling out an engineer multiple times a year, those costs add up. At some point, it makes more financial sense to invest in a new, reliable system.

4. Strange noises or smells

Banging, whistling, or gurgling sounds can indicate serious problems like kettling (limescale buildup) or air in the system. Any unusual smells—especially gas—should be investigated immediately by a Gas Safe engineer.

5. Uneven heating or slow hot water

If some radiators are cold while others are hot, or your hot water takes ages to come through, your boiler may be struggling to meet demand. This often worsens over time as the system deteriorates.

The good news?

If you're on certain benefits or have a household income under £31,000, you may qualify for a free boiler replacement through the ECO4 scheme — extended to December 2026. Even if you don't qualify for full funding, our C&T Smart Energy option offers quality upgrades at competitive rates with flexible payment plans.

5 Signs Your Boiler Needs Replacing