Warning Signs About Your Boiler You Shouldn’t Ignore

We know boilers aren’t the most common heating system here in Aurora, but our team at Done Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric have worked on more than you might think. Many older homes in neighborhoods like Capitol Hill, Congress Park, and parts of Denver’s historic districts still rely on them, as do some larger custom homes scattered across the metro. When a boiler stops doing its job, the problem isn’t just inconvenient—it can throw your whole home into a deep freeze fast.

If you’re staring down a boiler that’s leaking, struggling, or simply not heating the way it should, you’re likely wondering: should I repair it or replace it? After 25 years of helping homeowners in Greater Denver make this exact call, we can tell you—there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. But there are clear signs that point in one direction or the other. Let’s walk you through them.

Common Warning Signs of Boiler Trouble

Boilers have their own way of letting you know they’re in trouble. Here are some of the issues we see most often when a homeowner calls us out:

• Leaks or puddles forming around the unit

• Strange noises like banging, whistling, or gurgling

• Rooms that stay chilly no matter how high you turn up the thermostat

• Energy bills creeping up without a change in usage

• A boiler that won’t start or keeps shutting down mid-cycle

• Odd or unpleasant odors when the system is running

If you notice any of these, don’t wait it out. Minor boiler problems tend to snowball into bigger, more expensive repairs—or even an emergency replacement—when ignored.

How to Know It’s Worth Repairing Your Boiler

When we assess a boiler, we look at more than just the symptom that brought us out. We ask ourselves: what’s the age of the unit, how severe is the problem, and how healthy is the system overall?

In general, repair makes sense if your boiler is under about 15 years old, has no history of constant breakdowns, and the issue is isolated—like a bad thermostat, pump, or valve. In these cases, repairs are often faster and far less expensive than replacing the whole system, and you can usually expect your boiler to keep working reliably for years afterward.

Signs a Boiler Replacement Is the Smarter Investment

There are times when even the best repair won’t give you lasting value. If your boiler is 15–20+ years old, if parts are becoming hard to find, or if repairs would cost more than half the price of a new unit, replacement is usually the better call.

Efficiency also plays a big role. Older boilers can quietly drain your budget through higher energy bills. Modern boilers—and other heating options, if you choose to convert—use far less energy, give more consistent comfort, and come with safety and control features older systems can’t match. Plus, you get the peace of mind of a manufacturer’s warranty.

Considering a Change in Heating Type

While many homeowners choose to replace an old boiler with a newer, more efficient model, it’s not your only option. We at Done have helped some Aurora families switch to forced-air systems or other setups when it better fit their home’s layout and budget. If you’re exploring your options and choosing a heating system is on your mind, we can walk you through the pros and cons of each choice. That way, you can make a decision that keeps your home comfortable for years to come.

The Cost Question – and How We Make It Easier

We know cost is a big factor. National averages can give you a ballpark, but every home and boiler is different. At Done, we believe in upfront, no-surprise pricing so you know exactly what you’re paying for before we start.

If a replacement is the right choice, we offer financing options that make upgrading more affordable, often with payments that feel more like a utility bill than a major expense. And remember—newer, high-efficiency models can save you money on energy costs year after year.

Keep Your Boiler Running Longer with the Care Club

Whether you choose repair or replacement, maintenance is the single best way to protect your investment. Our Care Club members get annual inspections and cleanings that help prevent breakdowns, catch leaks and wear early, and keep efficiency high. Membership also comes with priority scheduling and discounts on repairs, so you’re never left in the cold waiting for service.

One Call.. It’s Done!

If your boiler’s acting up, we at Done can give you the straight answer on whether repair or replacement makes the most sense—without the sales pressure. We back our work with our Home Comfort Guarantee, so you can trust the job will be done right.

Schedule your inspection today and we’ll help you get the heat back on fast.