Manufacturers do an outstanding job of maintaining an inventory of replacement components, but as new models are introduced, the inventory of older model replacement parts is gradually phased out.
Fremont, CA: Boilers are one of the most important components of HVAC systems in institutional and commercial buildings. They are one of the largest energy users in a facility as well as require a significant investment to install and maintain. Aside from these concerns, the failure of a boiler during the heating season can cause operational disruptions as well as significant damage to the facilities and their contents. As a result, maintenance and engineering managers must pay close attention to the operation of their facilities' boilers.
Boilers, like all facility assets, have a limited service life. Even with the best care, they will eventually need to be replaced. Managers face a difficult task in determining the tipping point. Is it better to repair the existing boiler or invest in a new one? If one waits too long, the cost of boiler maintenance may become prohibitively expensive, or the boiler may fail. However, if it is replaced too soon, money will be lost.
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History Review
Another important factor to consider when deciding whether to repair or replace a boiler is its operating history. Breakdowns on a regular basis indicate that either something is wrong with the boiler's installation or that it is no longer reliable. If the problem is with installation, such as improper piping, technicians can fix it before managers consider a replacement.
Managers can also look over the boiler's maintenance records. Is the problem always the same, or are new problems emerging? Are the problems minor and easily remedied, or are they warning signs that a major failure is on the way? Examine the trend line once more to see if the number of maintenance issues is stable or increasing. Increasing maintenance requirements imply rising operating costs, a sign that the boiler is nearing the end of its useful life.
Considering Cost
A manager's decision to repair or replace a boiler will also be influenced by the availability of repair parts. Manufacturers do an outstanding job of maintaining an inventory of replacement components, but as new models are introduced, the inventory of older model replacement parts is gradually phased out. This can force technicians to conduct a time-taking search for parts while their boiler is down, or it can force them to fabricate a replacement part.
Many boiler repairs, such as valves and gauges, can be performed with generic parts, but others require OEM parts. Managers must consider this when deciding whether to repair or replace. Will they be able to obtain what they require when they require it? If so, how much will it cost?
Managers must weigh the cost of repair against the cost of replacing the boiler, assuming technicians can obtain the necessary parts. In most cases, the repair cost will be a small fraction of the replacement cost, so performing the necessary repairs makes sense.
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