This article provides a comprehensive guide on the costs and considerations involved in replacing your boiler.
Average Costs
- New Boiler: Prices range from £1,500 to £6,500, including installation, depending on the type and brand.
- Labour Costs: These typically range from £500 to £1,500, depending on the complexity of the installation.
- Boiler Types & Costs:
- Combi Boiler: £500-£4,000 (cost) + £500-£1,500 (labour)
- Condensing Boiler: £1,300-£5,500 (cost) + £500-£1,500 (labour)
- System Boiler: £1,000-£2,500 (cost) + £500-£1,500 (labour)
- Biomass Boiler: £7,000-£13,000 (cost) + £500-£1,500 (labour)
- Electric Boiler: £1,500-£2,500 (cost) + £500-£1,500 (labour)
- Conventional Boiler: £400-£1,500 (cost) + £500-£1,500 (labour)
Factors Affecting Costs:
- Boiler Type: More advanced models like biomass boilers will be significantly more expensive than conventional or combi boilers.
- Brand: The brand of the boiler can affect the cost, with some well-known brands offering premium options with warranties and additional features.
- Location: Costs may vary by region, especially in places like London.
- Installation Complexity: The type of replacement and whether pipework or additional installations (e.g., radiators, thermostats) are required will impact the price.
Additional Costs:
- Radiator replacement: £150-£300
- Install additional radiator: £250-£350
- New pipework installation: £800-£1,000
- New thermostat: £150-£280
What’s Involved in Installation
- Removal of old boiler and possible cleaning of the system.
- Pipework updates if necessary to accommodate the new boiler.
- Installation of accessories such as filters and filling loops.
- System commissioning to ensure all components work efficiently.
- Boiler registration to ensure your warranty is valid.
DIY Installation
While it’s not illegal to attempt installing a boiler yourself, it is strongly advised against, as it can be dangerous and potentially lead to complications when selling or renting your home. Only a Gas Safe registered engineer should install gas boilers.
Benefits of a New Boiler
- Improved efficiency: New boilers are A-rated and can save you up to £300 annually on energy bills.
- Enhanced control: Modern systems allow more precise temperature control in different rooms.
- Quieter operation: New designs result in quieter functioning compared to older models.
- Compact design: Newer boilers are often smaller, freeing up space in the home.
Emergency Boiler Repair
An emergency boiler repair is essential when there is a loss of heating or hot water, or when a gas or water leak occurs. Engineers can be called for one-off repairs whenever a fault arises. Many engineers provide a 24-hour emergency call-out service.
The cost of repairs will depend on the time required to fix the issue. After inspecting the boiler, the engineer will provide an estimated repair duration and a cost estimate. Typically, gas and heating engineers charge between £30-£100 per hour for labour.
Alternatively, some engineers offer fixed-price repairs, covering both labour and parts.
Boiler Service
A boiler service involves testing the efficiency and functionality of the system. The service includes:
- Boiler controls
- Seals and gaskets
- Electrical connections
- Water and gas pipework
- Gas pressure and flow
- Internal components
- Flue and combustion releases
- Safety devices
The service also identifies any corrosion or leaks. Boiler servicing typically costs between £60-£110 annually.
Cost to Remove a Boiler
Boiler removal is necessary for reasons like home relocation or upgrading. It involves capping off gas, draining the system, and disconnecting the boiler fittings. While DIY removal is possible, hiring a professional is recommended for safety. Removal costs range from £40-£350, depending on boiler type and complexity, and usually takes a few hours.
Boiler Installer Checklist
Before hiring a boiler installer, consider the following:
- Does the engineer offer any guarantees?
- Request a breakdown of costs.
- What boiler types does the company install?
- Does the engineer have experience with your chosen boiler model?
- Is the engineer Gas Safe registered?
- How many years of experience does the engineer have?
FAQ's
How often should a boiler be serviced?
Boilers should be serviced annually to ensure optimal performance.
How long does a boiler last?
Boilers typically last 10-15 years before replacement is necessary.
What should the boiler pressure be when heating is on?
The ideal pressure is between 1 and 2 bar, but refer to the boiler manual for specifics.
How much is a boiler service?
A typical boiler service costs between £60-£110.
What is a combi boiler?
A combi boiler combines both gas and electricity to provide heating and hot water. It’s the most common boiler type in the UK.
