How old is my boiler? Read the labels
This label on a Northern Virginia boiler says it was converted to LP gas, which is propane, and the date of conversion is written in by hand: 11/7/94. Labels like this one are often the quickest way to tell how old a boiler is.
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From one of our jobs
A conversion label dated by hand in 1994
Right now: Find the rating plate on the boiler and take a photo of the serial number. That’s how we date it.
The boiler is at least as old as the date on that label, and likely older, since it was converted after it was built. The rating plate usually has a serial number that holds the build year too, and service stickers stuck to the jacket show who worked on it and when.
Cast iron boilers can run a long time, but one past 25 or 30 years is burning more gas for the same heat and is harder to find parts for. Knowing its age is the start of deciding whether to keep fixing it or plan for a new one.
Quick answers
What people ask about a boiler’s age
How do I tell how old my boiler is?
Look at the rating plate for a serial number and a date, then at any conversion or service labels on the jacket. If none of those help, a tech can usually read the age off the serial number.
How long does a boiler last?
Cast iron boilers often last 25 to 30 years or more with yearly service. Newer high efficiency boilers are usually closer to 15 to 20.
What does converted to LP gas mean?
The boiler was built for natural gas and changed over to burn propane, with different orifices and gas pressure. The label records when and how it was done.
Should I replace a boiler from the 1990s?
Not just for its age. If it heats the house, doesn’t leak and passes a safety check, it can keep going. Once repairs stack up, a new one starts to make sense, and you can see that price before you decide.
Who works on old boilers in Northern Virginia?
Call SwiftPro at (703) 997-9757. We service, repair and replace gas and propane boilers, old ones included.
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SwiftPro Heating, Cooling & Plumbing
4230 Lafayette Center Dr N, Chantilly, VA 20151
44679 Endicott Dr, Suite 211, Ashburn, VA 20147
SwiftPro Plumber & Water Heaters
4200 Lafayette Center Dr, Suite N, Chantilly, VA 20151
Virginia Class A contractor license #2705192276