Q&A with Darren Faulkner, Business Development Manager
Q: Why should building owners be thinking about boiler replacements during the summer?
Darren: It might seem unusual to think about heating during warmer weather, but summer is actually one of the best times to replace an ageing boiler. Depending on the level of servicing and maintenance they may have received during their life, and the water quality of the system they are connected to, some boilers might have a lifespan of around 10 to 15 years and even with regular servicing there comes a point where replacement becomes more cost-effective than ongoing repairs. Planning ahead rather than waiting for a breakdown can help avoid unnecessary disruption and expense.
Q: What are the benefits of carrying out a boiler replacement in the summer months?
Darren: The main advantage is that heating systems are generally used less during summer, so there's less pressure to restore heating immediately. This allows installations to be completed in a more controlled and efficient way. For commercial buildings such as schools, offices and public-sector facilities, reduced occupancy can also make site access easier and simplify larger upgrade projects.
Q: Are there any technical considerations that should be assessed before replacing a boiler?
Darren: Absolutely. A boiler replacement doesn't always involve a straightforward swap. Many buildings have existing pipework arrangements, plate heat exchangers or other legacy system components that need to be considered. Summer provides the perfect opportunity to assess how a new boiler will integrate into the wider heating system, make any necessary modifications and complete testing and commissioning without time pressure.
Q: How can replacing a boiler early help avoid problems later in the year?
Darren: Winter is always the busiest period for boiler breakdowns and emergency callouts. By replacing a boiler during the summer, planned work can be completed before demand increases across the industry. It also means the building is fully prepared for the heating season ahead, reducing the risk of unexpected issues when heating becomes critical.
Q: Does planning ahead allow for improvements beyond a like-for-like replacement?
Darren: Definitely. When there's time to properly assess a building's requirements, it's possible to optimise the heating system for both current and future demand. That might include selecting a more suitable output, reconfiguring the system, or considering cascade arrangements where higher capacities are needed. For example, Keston's Heat 2 boilers can be installed in cascade configurations to provide outputs of up to 330 kW*.
Q: What's your advice for anyone considering a boiler replacement project this year?
Darren: Don't wait until winter. A planned summer replacement can help avoid the seasonal rush, keep projects on schedule and ensure buildings are ready well before heating is needed. It's also important to work with a manufacturer that can support the project with reliable product availability and delivery times. At Keston, we maintain strong stock levels across our twin flue boiler range to help keep projects moving throughout the year.
