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Boiler replacement guide
We understand that for most people buying a new combi boiler can be daunting – so, we’re happy to help you with the ins and outs of a boiler replacement.
In this guide, we’ll offer you boiler replacement advice and teach you basics to ensure you understand the different types of models available and the costs involved – and, even walk you through the installation process.
Sounds good? Great! Let’s get started.
In this guide
When to replace a boiler?
Combi boilers have a lifespan of 10-15 years. If your unit is approaching this age, It might be time to consider booking a replacement. After all, no one wants to be stuck with a broken boiler.
Do you need a boiler replacement?
Frequent breakdowns
Have you called out an engineer more than once in the last year? If you’ve answered “yes”, then it’s worth contemplating whether the amount of the repairs is greater than the cost of a new boiler. Based on research we have done over a 6 month period it is likely you will spend between £500 – £1000 on an old boiler across multiple breakdowns.
Your energy bills are increasing
If you’ve noticed a sudden surge in your energy bills. Then your boiler could be to blame. As boilers age, they tend to lose efficiency, and in that case, it will need replacing.
Another thing to bear in mind, is that your system may require cleaning to get rid of magnetite sludge which can also add to the cost of your bills
Replacing an old, unreliable model with a new A-rated boiler will ensure you keep energy bills to a minimum. Most modern boilers are A rated and if you combine your boiler with smart thermostats you can boost the overall efficiency of your system.
No longer meets your needs
Is your boiler struggling to meet hot water or heating needs. Then, you may require a boiler with a higher kW output. Another option could be to consider going to a new design, such as a system boiler and hot water cylinder or a storage combination boiler.
Your boiler leaks
Simply put, a leaking boiler is never a good sign. In fact, it indicates there’s a crucial issue with an internal component. A heat exchanger, valve or seal may have broken, these can be expensive to fit – in most cases it will be cheaper to install a new one. Especially if the heat exchanger has completely failed.
Your boiler smells odd
If you smell an eggy odour when you use your boiler, there’s probably a gas leak. Immediately turn off the gas meter and call the emergency gas line on 0800 111 999. Then get in touch with a registered Gas Safe engineer. Do this if you ever detect any unusual smells emanating from your boiler.
In this situation, you should also avoid turning on/off any electrical appliances or switches and try to ventilate your property.
How much does it cost to replace a boiler?
The costs for replacing a boiler will differ, but a straightforward boiler replacement will typically cost around 1800. to £4000.
Storage combis and more technically advanced boilers ie: Viessmann 200 range will typically be on the higher end of the stated range.
Below is an estimated cost of a gas boiler replacement in a home with 3 bedrooms. All of the values in the table are averages and could go up or down depending on several factors. These include:
- Boiler type
- Installation (what work is required)
- Rates charged by the installer
| Boiler type | Average cost of boiler excluding installation | Average labour cost of boiler installation | Approximate total cost of boiler fully installed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Combi | £600- £2,000 | £1,000 | £1,200 – £3,000 |
| System | £500 – 2,000 | £500 – £1,000 | £1,000 – £3,500 |
| Conventional | £500 – 2,750 | £500 – £1,000 | £1,000 – £3,750 |
*this does not include cost of hot water cylinder
As multiple factors can have an impact on boiler replacement costs, all of the costs in the table are approximations. To get a more exact idea of boiler replacement costs, we highly recommend using our online quote tool.
It takes into account factors such as your budget, home size and central heating/hot water needs to provide you with a more realistic estimate of installation costs.
How to Get Your Free Online Boiler Quote?
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Things to consider before replacing a boiler
Buying a new boiler involves a bit of research, as you’ll need to understand the type of fuel your boiler runs on, which boiler model will suit your home and the best boiler size (kW output rating) for your heating and hot water requirements.
These include:
What size boiler do you need?
Determining the right boiler size can be difficult. So, we’ve crafted the grid below to help you make sense of the different output ratings. Typically, residential boilers have an output rating of 24 kW and 42 kW, and you can use the number of radiators and bathrooms in your home to determine the right boiler for your home based on the output ranting.
| Property size | Output rating |
|---|---|
| 1-2 bedroom, 10 radiators, 1 bathroom | 24-30kW |
| 3-4 bedroom, 15 radiators, 1-2 bathroom | 30-35kW |
| 4+ bedroom, 20 radiators, 2+ bathroom | 35-42kW or storage combi |
Choosing a boiler size
It’s vital that you choose the correct boiler size for your home, or you might find yourself with inefficient heating and hot water. Read our article: What Size Boiler Do I Need? to discover the right size boiler for you.
Still not sure? Don’t worry – we’re here to help. Take our free, online quoting tool to help you discover the correct boiler size for your home, and the costs involved in fitting it. Bonus! You’ll be one step closer to getting a new boiler – Hurrah!
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Fuel types
What’s the best fuel for my boiler? Generally, gas is the most popular choice for UK homeowners. Why? Because gas is the cheapest per kWh compared to Oil or LPG.
Here’s a quick break down of different fuel types:
Gas boilers
Gas is around 3 to 4 times cheaper per kWh than other fuels, making it an economical choice to heat your home. However, it does require a connection to the gas network, meaning it can cost for first-time grid connections. Most towns and city locations are all on gas grid.
Oil boilers
If your home isn’t connected to the gas network, installing an oil boiler can be a more cost-effective solution, although it is more expensive to install and ongoing service and maintenance is more expensive than a gas or LPG boiler. Oil is also not supplied by the gas or electric mains – instead, oil is stored in a tank, meaning you need to ensure it has a sufficient amount of fuel to run your boiler.
LPG boilers
A LPG boiler works in a very similar way to both natural gas and oil boilers i.e. the boiler burns the fuel to produce the energy needed to heat water from the mains supply.
How to find out which fuel your boiler uses
In most cases, if you’re already living in a property, then you’ll most likely know the fuel type you have. However, if considering purchasing a new home and don’t have any experience with an off-grid property, you’ll need to research what fuel type the current boiler requires. You can do this on the EPC register, where you can download a document that gives you suggestions of how to improve the overall rating and efficiency of your property which ultimately if followed will reduce your overall energy spend.
The location of your new boiler
If your boiler is an eyesore? Or, you are just looking to free up space? In any case, the location of your boiler can rapidly change the aesthetics of a room. So, make sure you select a spot that you’re happy with – ultimately, it’s going to be there for up to a decade.
Generally, the kitchen will be the most popular location for a boiler, however, other popular places can be an old airing cupboard or a garage. If space is an issue people do install boilers in lofts – there are some downsides to having a boiler installed in a loft; especially if it is a combi or system boiler. Usually, we would always recommend that you leave the boiler in the current location.
In most cases, boilers can be relocated. However, there may be many technical reasons why this would become difficult. Also another thing to consider is that moving a boiler can increase the overall cost of the installation.
Depending on the layout of your residence, relocating your boiler could generate a faster response to hot water demand, and increase your house mark interest – after-all, no one wants to buy or rent a house with a boiler in the bedroom.
If you really need to move a boiler we would suggest that you discuss this in detail with a professional plumbing and heating firm to fully understand all the technical issues involved with moving the boiler as a first point of any extensions or building works to fully understand all implications.
Another thing to bear in mind is new boiler locations can differ depending on the type of boiler you choose, as some are wall-mounted, floor mounted, and some will require a cylinder and storage combis have a larger physical size than standard combi boilers
What’s the cost of moving a boiler?
Moving a boiler can cost around £300 to £800 on average, and 1 day to be installed. However, these costs can range depending on the labour involved.
How much is a boiler installation?
Installation prices can vary based on the complexity of the job. So, to help you gauge potential payments, we’ve drawn up two scenarios below show you the rough costs for:
1) Replacing a boiler in its current location
2) Rough cost for fitting a boiler in a new location
How much does it cost to replace a combi boiler?
Here is a scenario that shows the rough costs for fitting a new combi in the same location and for installing a new combi in a location. However, the cost of moving the boiler will differ according to where it is moved to.
Table based on 3 table – Budget 1700 – Mid range 2000 – premium brand 2500
tallation prices can vary based on the complexity of the job. So, to help you gauge potential payments, we’ve drawn up two scenarios below show you the rough costs for:
1) Replacing a boiler in its current location
2) Rough cost for fitting a boiler in a new location
| Installation of a new combi boiler | Approx cost with mid range boiler | Time taken |
|---|---|---|
| 1) Replacing an existing combi boiler with a new boiler | £2,000 | 1 day |
| 2) Replacing an existing combi boiler with a new boiler | £2,600 | 1-2 days |
To move boiler £300 additional each item 1 – 1.5 days to install.
How much does it cost to replace a system boiler?
The cost of replacing a system boiler can vary depending on whether you’ve opted for a like-to-like installation or a system change. Here are three scenarios to estimated cost:
As above – A – budget £1800.00 – mid range – £2100 – premium brand £2500.00
B – budget £3800 – mid range £4200 – premium brand £4500
C – budget £3700 – mid range £4100 – premium brand £4400
| Installation of a new system boiler | Approx cost with mid range boiler | Time taken |
|---|---|---|
| A) Replacing a system boiler with a new system boiler and retain the unvented hot water tank | £1,900 | 1 day |
| B) Replacing a heat-only boiler and hot water tank with a system boiler and unvented hot water tank * based on a B or C rated cylinder | £4,200 | 2 days |
| C) Replacing a combi boiler with a system boiler and unvented hot water tank Based on a B or C rated cylinder | £4,600 | 2-3 days |
How much does it cost to replace a conventional boiler?
Like the above, the cost of replacing a conventional boiler can largely depend on the type of installation and labour required to complete the job. We’ve listed three scenarios to help you understand potential costs for a like-for-like install, location change and system replacement.
A budget £1700 mid range £ 1900.00 – premium brand £2300
B budget £3300 mid range £3600.00 – premium range £3900
C budget £3700.00 mid range £4000.00 premium range £4300
| Installation of a new system boiler | Approx cost with mid range boiler | Time taken |
|---|---|---|
| A) Replacing an existing heat only boiler with a new boiler | £1,750 | 1 day |
| B) Replacing an existing heat only boiler and new cylinder | £2,200 | 2 days |
| C) Replacing an existing combi boiler and with a conventional boiler and cylinder plus attic tanks | £3,200 | 2-3 days |
C – why would you do this? The reason would most likely be if mains pressure is very low or too many bathrooms. There are other solutions to increasing your water flow rate and pressure. If you want to add a move boiler – average cost is £300.
The cheapest option would be to place the new boiler in the same location as the old one, as it requires less installation time and less materials.
How much can I save by replacing my old boiler?
Upgrading your old, inefficient boiler for a new, condensing model will save you money with every year that passes. The Energy Saving Trust states that you can save up to £330 a year by switching your boiler. Let’s take a deeper look at how much money you can save.
The chart below, shows estimates for a typical A-rated boiler operating at around 90% efficiency and shows how it saves compared to an outdated model. Why not check your current property’s efficiency by entering your postcode? Try it here.
| Efficiency of old boiler | % saving | £ saving |
|---|---|---|
| 60% | 33% | £237 |
| 65% | 28% | £201 |
| 70% | 22% | £158 |
| 75% | 17% | £122 |
| 80% | 11% | £79 |
As you can see, the more inefficient your old boiler is, the more you can save by replacing it. In turn, replacing an old boiler will also help you save on breakdown costs. You can also boost efficiency further by using a smart thermostat.
Want to get a quote for a more efficient, condensing boiler? Then, why not try our free online quote tool to get a realistic estimate of potential replacement costs.
What is a condensing boiler?
Most people think a condensing boiler is a new type. However, that couldn’t be further for the truth. In fact, it’s the technology inside your boiler, that makes it condensing. For example, you still choose from a combi, system or conventional, but will have the efficiency increased by the condensing technology. Modern condensing boilers get the highest energy efficiency ratings, saving you money and reducing your carbon footprint.
The benefits of upgrading to a condensing boilers
Upgrading your outdated system to a modern, efficient condensing boiler comes with a whole host of benefits, including:
Less energy consumption
A condensing boiler will be around 40 – 15 % more efficient than an old boiler. Meaning, you’ll benefit from reduced energy bills, and fossil fuels.
Safer
Condensing boilers are a lot safer than non-condensing models. This is because there is lower risk of carbon monoxide problems and breakdowns.
Eco-friendly
Less fuel waste means a lower carbon footprint. Every condensing boiler installed saves around 1.7 tonnes of CO2 every year, helping you reduce your carbon emissions and do your bit for the environment.
Space saving construction
Your condensing boiler is likely to be smaller and more sleek than an outdated boiler. There is no need to find space for a hot water tank either.
Buying a boiler
Boiler costs vary depending on the type you need, the capacity and the efficiency rating. Usually, A-rated boilers cost more than lower efficiency models. However, you’ll benefit in the long run as they’ll save you more on your heating bills.
As a rough guide, for a budget boiler you’ll be looking at around £600 for the boiler only. Standard, mid-priced boilers can cost from around £600 – £850, and should guarantee a life expectancy of 7 to 10 years. Whilst, with premium brand boilers you can expect to pay £1200.
Choosing the right type of boiler for your home
When choosing the right boiler option for your home, there are three types to choose from:
Combi boiler
- Compact size; a good choice for smaller properties
- No separate water tank required
- Cheaper installation
- Provides on-demand hot water from the mains
System boiler
- Typically suitable for medium size and large homes
- No loft tank, which saves space
- Doesn’t need a feed or expansion cistern makes them more efficient
- Offer a constant supply of hot water to any number of taps
Conventional boiler
- A great choice for homes with high hot water demand and low mains pressure and flow rate
- Suitable for large households with two or more bathrooms
- Requires a cold water storage tank in the loft as well as a hot water tank
What boiler brands are there to choose from?
With so many boiler manufacturers out there, it can be hard to understand which one is right for you. Here are a few of the UK’s leading brands:
Viessmann
An industry leader in both pioneering technology and German design. These boilers are built with reliability, high efficiency and usability in mind. They are fast becoming one of the most popular brands in the UK, due to their sleek design and quality engineered products offering up to 10-year warranty.
Worcester Bosch
A good, strong brand with a long track record of delivering high quality products. These boilers tend to be quiet and highly efficient, although some reviewers comment that the controls are a little confusing to use. Generally considered to be top of the range, you’ll pay a bit more for that Worcester Bosch badge.
Valliant
The other ‘top of the range’ supplier, Vaillant boilers have been around for decades. They aren’t the cheapest option, but you are buying into a company who are also producing well engineered products.
Ideal
Overall these boilers are good value for money. A handful of customers have had issues with breakdowns, but have been delighted with their included five-year parts and labour guarantee.
Baxi
A solid mid-range boiler, this is a brand which offers a good half way price point between the Bosch/Viessmann and the Glow Worm. They have a reputation for excellent reliability, and have plenty of high efficiency A-rated models.
Glow Worm
These boilers have a strong reputation for being reasonably priced, and compared to some of the other big names they do offer amazing value for money. The company also has lots of good feedback in terms of their customer service.
Vokera
The real budget choice, these boilers are pretty much the cheapest out there, and are not renowned for longevity or reliability. However, they are still a popular choice for tenanted properties and second homes, owing to their amazing value purchase price.
Choosing the right boiler brand
Before selecting a manufacturer, we would advise you to do some comparative research. Looking at the customer reviews, warranties and benefits for each brand.
Customer reviews
You can use customer reviews to determine what’s brand is best for you. Start by looking at sites such as; Trustpilot and Which? to find the ratings for specific boiler models.
Warranties
Generally speaking, all new boilers come with a warranty from the manufacturer. This means that you can get your boiler repaired free of charge, during the warranty period. These can range from 2 to 10 years, depending on the installer.
At Boilerhut being a premium installer, we can offer 10 year warranties. Helping you keep your home warm, for less – find out more here.
Benefits
Each boiler manufacturer has certain features and benefits that could be better suited to your home than another. So, it’s important to take time to read through boiler reviews to discover what works best.
What boilers are best?
Homes come in all shapes and sizes, meaning they have various hot water and heating demands. In turn, this can make it hard to determine what’s the best boiler for your home.
So, to help you discover the best boiler for your property. We’ve listed some of the best boilers on the market in 2020:
Viessmann Vitodens 200-W
Suitable for houses of all sizes, the Which? best buy winner Viessmann 200-W offers excellent reliability and usability. With 98% efficiency, this boiler is A-rated making it more economical to run.
Read more about the Viessmann Vitodens 200-W here.
Worcester Bosch Greenstar 30i
Designed to meet the needs of small to medium homes, the Greenstar 30i is a compact system that can be installed in almost any location.
Read more about the Worcester Bosch Greenstar 30i here.
Vaillant ecoTEC Plus
The Quiet Mark award winner, Vaillant ecoTEC Plus has a kW output starting from 25kW, making it ideal for small to medium properties.
Read more about the Vaillant ecoTEC Plus here.
Baxi EcoBlue Advance Combi
Endorsed by Energy Saving Trust, Baxi EcoBlue Advance Combi can meet the heating and hot water demands of any type home.
Read more about the Baxi EcoBlue Advance Combi here.
Viessmann 050
Which would represent excellent value for money – while still having a stainless steel heat exchanger and considered a premium brand
Read more about the Viessmann 050 here.
Comparing boilers
It’s also important to compare output rating and whether a boiler is within your budget before selecting the model you want. Here’s a quick comparison form, to help you understand what boiler is best.
| Boiler name | Output range (Kw) | ERP rating | Efficiency | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Viessman Vitodens 200-W | 5.2 to 35 | A-rated | 98% | 10 years |
| Worcester Bosch Greenstar 30i | 24 | A-rated | 89.9% | 10 years |
| Vaillant ecoTEC Plus | 25 to 38 | A-rated | 89.3% | 10 years |
| Baxi EcoBlue Advance Combi | 24 to 40 | A-rated | 89.1% | 10 years |
| Viessmann Vitodens 050-w | 4.7 to 35 | A-rated | 98% | 10 years |
10 years on most of these brands would be offered if the installer chosen is approved by the manufacturer.
Looking to discover more? Then, why not take a look at Best Combi Boilers 2020 in the UK.
Getting a boiler replacement quote
How can I get a new boiler quote? Use our free, online quote tool to help gain a better understanding of the boiler installation costs. We’ll take into account factors such as the size of your home, heating and hot water needs, to give you a realistic estimate of your new boiler installation costs.
Once you’ve received your quote, our friendly team will be in touch to ensure you have chosen the correct options for your property if not they are on hand to assist with this and hopefully producing the correct quote to meet your requirements, with a recommendation of a suitable boiler type, brand and model. Then, they’ll book you in with a registered gas safe engineer to install your new boiler.
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What happens during a new boiler replacement?
Once you have completed your purchase with Boilerhut which we believe is a simple and straightforward process, generally a date will be agreed for your installation, you will have confirmation of this sent via text and your gas safe installer will generally arrive on site between 8-9 am they then will review the work order provided and debrief you on what work will be completed prior to them unpacking the boiler and materials. Also at this time they will make a final assessment and survey to ensure the job can be completed as per the work order. Once this has been established the work will commence. All our installers are highly trained and respectful – operating under stringent guidelines to ensure safety and respect at all times.
How long could a boiler installation take?
Generally speaking, a boiler replacement can take anything from 1 to 3 days, depending on the amount of work required.
For example, a like-for-like boiler replacement takes around 1 day to complete. Whilst, an entire system upgrade – due to change to pipework, removal of the tanks in the loft and the installation of a new hot water cylinder – can take 2-3 days to finish.
A boiler replacement can also take longer if you’re planning to move the boiler to a new location, as new pipework is required. If your boiler is gas and it’s being moved further away from the gas meter, then a bigger gas pipe may need to be installed.
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