How long should a boiler last - consumer Law?

wonkytechy

A boiler fitted in 2008, whose installer has gone bump, has problems. Some water is leaking onto a circuit board. I dont know whether there is a warranty (its not my boiler). How long should a boiler be expected to last in consumer law. Any help appreciated :j

macman

Make and model would help?
All modern boilers have at least two years warranty, some 5 or 7 years, so I suggest you check what the manufacturer's warranty is on this one. Nothing to do with the installer, he just registers it.
There is no law that defines exactly how long a particular item should last.

Cardew

It depends how you define 'last'.

The generally accepted 'rule of thumb' with modern boilers is around 10 years before they become uneconomical to repair when a major item needs replacement.

However 'in consumer law' they only need to last as long as the Guarantee.

Southend1

[QUOTE=Cardew;60153135

However 'in consumer law' they only need to last as long as the Guarantee.[/QUOTE]

I'm pretty sure that's incorrect. Under sale of goods act they should be of satisfactory quality. How long would a reasonable person expect a new boiler to last? Trading standards should be able to advise.

Cardew

Southend1 wrote: »

I'm pretty sure that's incorrect. Under sale of goods act they should be of satisfactory quality. How long would a reasonable person expect a new boiler to last? Trading standards should be able to advise.

http://www.adviceguide.org.uk/nireland/consumer_ni/consumer_common_problems_with_products_e/faulty_goods_e/what_is_meant_by_not_of_satisfactory_quality.htm


If a boiler has, say, a two year guarantee and then develops a fault(s) after that period, I am pretty sure that you would have no redress under the Sale of Goods act.

A boiler will last 'forever' if it is repaired and repaired and repaired.

In the OP's case to try to take action under consumer law for a faulty 5 year old boiler is doomed IMO. It is, in effect, expecting a guarantee to last 5 years.

wonkytechy

Thanks everyone. The manufacturer is involved now but as friend not foe. Appreciate your time. It's a Baxi

Gromitt

wonkytechy wrote: »

Thanks everyone. The manufacturer is involved now but as friend not foe. Appreciate your time. It's a Baxi

I assume not for free ?

chanz4

Has it been serviced, if so they may change their mind

SailorSam

Our last one died after 8yrs. I didn't think that was very good when you consider what they cost but they came out to fix it over and over again then told us the parts just aren't available 'cos it's to old.

brewerdave

I've just had a ~ 10 year old Ideal Icos boiler replaced - the heat exchanger chamber had actually melted because some insulation had broken away and blocked the burner.The call out gas fitter said that 10 years life with a more "modern" boiler was pretty good! Gone are the days of 20+ years service - these modern units are generally made from plastic and thin metal sheet and contain too many electronic components to last, more is the pity!!

C_Mababejive

My Glow Worm spacesaver 50 is now on its 32nd year of stirling service. Modern boilers are mostly junk.