Legacy heating systems can get expensive with time as they begin to break down and demand frequent maintenance. We’ve discussed 5 common problems and how you can fix them.
Legacy heating systems have a reputation for being troublesome so, if you are looking to get rid of yours, we understand! Contrary to popular belief, repairing and replacing aren’t the only two solutions you have.
You don't necessarily have to replace old systems with new ones. You can upgrade your existing heating system and design it to suit your exact needs without stretching your budget. Let’s dive deeper!
Common problems experienced by older heat exchange systems
Lack of spare parts
With time, your legacy heating system is bound to break down or need repair. Repairing it will not only be expensive but you will also experience difficulty in finding parts to fix it if anything goes wrong.
The problem is that the companies that manufactured your system aren't making the parts anymore so sourcing replacements can sometimes be impossible.
Knowledge gap
New technology has replaced the demand for legacy heating systems. Finding a knowledgeable technician who knows how to repair older heating systems can be a challenge even if you live in a well-connected urban area. Since these kinds of equipment are hardly being used anymore, nobody is spending time learning about them.
Scalability issues
If you need more output, legacy heating systems won’t be able to help you grow. Maxing out your unit's capacity and hoping for better energy efficiency isn't an option as it can lead to breakdowns and expensive repairs. These systems just aren't built for a growing company.
Futureless technology
Legacy heating systems have no future. They run on outdated technology, aren't energy-efficient, and can't withstand today's climatic conditions. In other words, they can't compete with some of the newer models available to businesses today. It would be astonishing if they were able to function for another five to six years without running into maintenance issues.
Expensive maintenance
Legacy heating systems are known to present businesses with new leaks every day and demand repairs of the same couple of parts. Over time, the minor problems have a tendency to evolve into a bigger maintenance issue that can bring your operations to an indefinite halt.
When should you replace your heat exchange system?
If a heat exchange system is operating at a lower efficiency you won't notice much of an immediate difference. However, the longer it stays that way, the more your bills will increase, and sooner or later, your unit will break down.
Below are the usual telltale signs of a heat exchange system in need of a replacement:
You are getting drastically higher bills for electricity.
The maintenance on the heater is getting more expensive with every servicing.
Your unit is falling apart; it is leaking, is rusty and is no longer performing optimally.
You need a system that is quieter.
Having said that, replacement isn’t always the only option. It is possible for you to keep your old system and get the efficiency of a new one.
Repairing vs replacing: Financial implications
If you are trying to save money now or don’t have the budget to make a switch, then repairing your heating system might be the route for now. But it is only a good short-term plan.
Also, remember that the cost of repairs is not always predictable. They are likely to increase, while the new installation will remain the same for many years.
Therefore, in the long run, you might benefit more from a replacement or even an upgrade - which is the best option from the lot.
An upgrade refers to refurbishing your old heating system to bring it more in line with the latest technology, so you can get more out of your existing unit.
Allied Heat Transfer specializes in refurbishment services as we believe it is more sustainable and beneficial for the circular economy.
Repairing vs replacing: Productivity-related impacts
Generally, a replacement is more energy-efficient and productive than a repair. Some of the new heating systems in the market have better insulation and pressure control, allowing you to save a lot of energy. But if you choose to upgrade, you will still be enjoying less downtime and zero loss of productivity at a cost lower than that of a replacement.
Repairing vs replacing: Environmental effects
Replacing one aluminium can increases energy consumption by as much as 90% and generates large amounts of CO2 during the production process. Imagine what replacing an entire heating system would do!
Repairing or upgrading your system, on the other hand, requires no new equipment. Above all, such a system will be quieter than your existing one and won’t contribute to noise pollution. Therefore, you neither add to the ever-increasing pollution nor let your operations stall.
Repairing vs replacing: Technological benefits
When it comes to technology, new heating systems are a clear winner. You can get your hands on the most recent developments and optimise your operations using the latest features in the market. But these technological benefits come at the cost of the environment.
Upgrading, on the other hand, lets you keep your machine and modify it in a way that allows you to unlock your machine’s true potential, which will address your needs and keep your processes competitive.
Solving legacy heat exchange system problems
Allied Heat Transfer is on a mission to reduce carbon footprint and help customers choose a more planet-friendly alternative every time. That’s why we usually recommend upgrading your systems instead of replacing them because it is less of a strain on your pocket and the environment.
We also make our machinery locally, so every piece of equipment manufactured by us is compliant with legislation. For you, that means a safe working environment for you and your employees as well as a chance at having new technology at the most affordable rates fitted in your existing system.
So, if that piques your interest, give us a call and our heat exchange experts will be happy to assist you.