Best Heat Only Boilers in 2024 Boiler Brands & Prices

Choosing the best heat-only boiler for your home is crucial for ensuring efficient and reliable heat distribution. This guide will explore top brands, their key features, and price ranges to help you make an informed decision.

Overview of Heat-Only Boilers

Heat-only boilers, also known as regular or conventional boilers, are a popular choice for homes built before the 1970s. These systems consist of a water tank, typically placed in the loft, and a hot water cylinder located in an airing cupboard. They are known for their ability to provide high hot water flow rates, making them ideal for larger households.

Features and Benefits of Heat-Only Boilers

Consistent Hot Water Supply: These boilers are perfect for homes with multiple bathrooms or high water usage, as they store hot water in a cylinder, allowing several taps to run simultaneously.
Reliable Heating: Heat-only boilers offer dependable heating solutions by utilizing separate water tanks and expansion vessels.
Compatible with Solar Panels: Modern heat-only boilers can be integrated with solar thermal systems, allowing for energy-efficient heating.

Popular Brands and Their Boilers

Several top-tier brands dominate the heat-only boiler market, offering models that vary in features and price. Below are some of the most reputable brands.

Worcester-Bosch

Worcester-Bosch is a market leader in the boiler industry, known for its high-performance models. Their heat-only boilers come in different capacities to suit various household sizes.

Worcester-Bosch Greenstar Utility 50-70 (Oil): Priced between £1,700-£1,900, this model offers a robust heating solution with reliable performance.
Worcester-Bosch Greenstar FS 42CDI Regular: Typically priced between £1,500-£1,700, it delivers efficient heating and hot water for larger homes.
Worcester-Bosch Greenstar 30CDI Regular: With a price range of £1,200-£1,300, this model is perfect for medium-sized homes.

Vaillant

Vaillant is another well-respected name in the industry, offering advanced technology and energy-efficient designs.

Vaillant EcoTec Plus 428: This model, priced between £800-£900, provides excellent heating for medium to large homes.
Vaillant EcoTec Plus 415: Available for £600-£800, this model suits smaller homes where space is a premium.

Baxi

Baxi offers affordable yet highly efficient boilers, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious consumers.

Baxi Solo 12 HE: With outputs ranging from 12KW to 35KW and prices between £600-£700, this model provides versatile heating solutions for various home sizes.

Potterton

Potterton is known for its compact and efficient boilers, ideal for smaller homes.

Potterton Promax 12 HE Plus Slimline: This model, priced between £500-£600, offers compact design and reliable performance for small to medium homes.

Read about: Top UK System Boilers

Price Range of Heat-Only Boilers

The cost of heat-only boilers varies significantly based on the brand and capacity. Prices typically range from £500 for smaller models to £2,000 for larger, high-performance options.

Small homes: Compact models like the Potterton Promax are priced at £500-£600.
Medium homes: Mid-range options such as the Vaillant EcoTec Plus 415 cost between £600-£800.
Large homes: High-output models like the Worcester-Bosch Greenstar Utility 50-70 can reach up to £2,000.

Key Considerations When Choosing a Heat-Only Boiler

Home Size

The size of your home plays a significant role in determining the right boiler for you. Larger homes with multiple bathrooms and high water usage require a boiler with a higher output, whereas smaller homes can opt for compact, wall-mounted models.

Installation Costs

Installing a heat-only boiler can be expensive, particularly if you are upgrading from a different system type. Homes already equipped with a similar system may find the installation process more straightforward and less costly.

Efficiency

Choosing a condensing boiler ensures you get the highest efficiency possible. Modern condensing boilers can achieve up to 97% efficiency, significantly reducing energy consumption and heating bills.

Space Requirements

Heat-only boilers require space for a water tank and a hot water cylinder. These boilers may not be ideal for smaller homes where space is a constraint.

Boiler Engineer Accreditation

Ensure that your boiler installation is carried out by Gas Safe-registered engineers to comply with safety standards. The quality of installation plays a crucial role in the long-term performance of your boiler.

Our team of high quality professional engineers have an extremely high 4.9 out of 5, Trustpilot score given to us by our happy customers and we are fully accredited by Gas Safe and Corgi registered, as well as FCA approved for all of our financial transactions.

Advantages of Heat-Only Boilers

Simple Replacement

Replacing an existing regular boiler with a new model is often a straightforward process, especially if your home is already set up with the required water tanks and cylinders.

High Hot Water Demand

For homes with multiple bathrooms and high water usage, heat-only boilers are an excellent choice. These systems allow multiple taps and showers to be used simultaneously without affecting water pressure.

Backup Heating

An immersion heater can be installed as a backup to ensure you never run out of hot water, even if your boiler experiences issues.

Solar Compatibility

Modern heat-only boilers can work in conjunction with solar thermal panels, making them a sustainable option for environmentally conscious homeowners.

Read about: The Best Brands of System Boilers & Pricing

Disadvantages of Heat-Only Boilers

Space Requirements

One of the significant downsides of a heat-only boiler is the space required for installation. With both a water tank and a hot water cylinder, this system takes up more room compared to combi or system boilers.

Hot Water Delays

Once the hot water in your cylinder runs out, there will be a delay while the water heats up again. This may not be ideal during peak usage times.

Installation Costs

The initial installation of a heat-only boiler system can be costly, especially if your home is not already set up with the required water tanks and external pumps.

Understanding Condensing Boilers

The term condensing refers to a technology feature rather than a specific type of boiler. All new boilers are required by law to be condensing models, which makes them more energy-efficient. Condensing boilers use a larger heat exchanger and capture additional heat that would otherwise be wasted, making them more efficient by up to 50% compared to non-condensing models.

Why Choose Let’s Heat for Your Boiler Installation?

You can research your boiler replacement requirements and choose your new boiler and the boiler installation online, without leaving the house…

If you need a new combi boiler or heat pump and installation, please do not hesitate to reach out to our heating engineers team because they have more information to help you with.

We cover everything that you might need, including the full boiler replacement from us here at Let’s Heat.

Next Day Service – heat only boilers

We replace & install boilers and heat pumps nationwide and include next-day installation (on orders placed before 12/2 pm in all seasons.

All of our engineers are experienced and skilled in all aspects of heating installation services, repair and maintenance.

Alternatively, please take a look at our FAQS or blog, if you have any other questions because there are lots of questions answered in those places.

Full range of heating & plumbing services provided by Let’s Heat:

Boiler Repairs & Installations
Boiler Supply & Fit
Financing Your Boiler
Emergency Boiler Repairs & Installations
Emergency Boiler Supply & Fit
Plumbing Repairs
Bathroom Plumbing
Kitchen Plumbing
Emergency Plumbing Repairs
Bathroom Plumbing in Emergencies
Emergency Kitchen Plumbing
General Plumbing Services
Emergency Plumbing Services
Emergency Gas & Heating Engineer

Areas covered by our Boiler Replacement Services:

The Let’s Heat engineers cover all of Wales & England because they are willing to travel.

WALES:

Let’s Heat provide Heat Only Boiler installations throughout Wales, including areas like; South East Wales, South Wales, South West Wales, Mid Wales, East Wales, West Wales as well as North Wales.

Welsh Cities:

This includes all of the Welsh cities like: Cardiff, Newport, Swansea, and all other towns and cities in Wales.

ENGLAND:

What’s more, Let’s Heat provide Heat Only Boiler installations throughout England, including areas like; South West England, South East England, East Midlands, West Midlands, North West England, and North East England as well.

English Cities:

This includes all of the English cities such as: London, Reading, Southampton, Portsmouth, Bristol, Exeter, Plymouth, Gloucester, Swindon, Oxford, Leicester, Nottingham, Derby, Birmingham, Worcester, Wolverhampton, Walsall, Liverpool, Manchester, Leeds, York, Sheffield, Newcastle, Sunderland as well as Middlesbrough, etc.

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FAQ’s

How long do heat only boilers last?

A good boiler should not only heat your home efficiently but also be able to do it for a long time. If you have newly bought a new boiler, you do not have to worry about getting a replacement for many years. Most modern boilers last for anywhere between 10 to 15 years on average.

What is the difference between a heat only boiler and a system boiler?

Heat only boilers (conventional or regular) work with a cylinder in the airing cupboard. System boilers are more than often found in modern homes with an ‘unvented’ hot water cylinder.

What does heat only mean?

A heat only boiler heats a home by using a cold water tank, a hot water cylinder, in addition to a feed and expansion tank. Heat only boilers are usually found in larger homes because they are able to supply hot water to multiple radiators, taps and showers all at the same time.

How long does it take to install a regular boiler?

A regular boiler can take between 1 to 3 days. The complexity of the installation will determine the duration. A like-for-like boiler replacement would be the quickest to do. However, replacing a different kind of boiler would take longer time to finish. For instance, a combi boiler replaced with regular boiler will require installing a hot water cylinder, a tank and re-routing the pipework. Lastly, moving your boiler would also increase the installation time.

Is a regular boiler the right choice for me?

To get what you exactly need, you should take a look at the pros and cons of regular boilers. There are a lot of things to think of when it comes to choosing the most suitable boiler for you. So here are some of the most important things to keep in mind:

How do regular boilers work?

It is all pretty simple. Basically, a regular boiler will take water from the tank to provide heating. It is important to place your tank as high as possible to have a better water flow in all the system.
A heat exchanger warms up the cold water once you turn on the hot tap or switch on the heating. After that the hot water moves to the hot water storage cylinder where it is kept and circulated. Then valves will direct hot water to the heating system or the taps and outlets.

Job Description	Labour Cost	Supply Cost	Total Cost
Fixing stuck/faulty port valves	£30 – £120	N/A	£30 – £120
Replacing stuck/faulty port valves	£30 – £120	£40 – £90	£70 – £210
Removing dust/debris from thermostat	£30 – £60	N/A	£30 – £60
Fixing faulty thermostat connections/wiring	£30 – £120	£10 – £30	£40 – £150
Replacing a thermostat	£30 – £120	£80 – £240	£110 – £360
Fixing a faulty PCB	£60 – £240	N/A	£60 – £240
Replacing a faulty PCB	£60 – £240	£430 – £560	£490 – £800
New boiler installation	£250 – £1,000	£550 – £1,800	£800 – £2,800

Discovering a leak beneath your boiler can be alarming and inconvenient. Whether it’s a minor drip or a significant puddle, understanding the cause and appropriate response is crucial for maintaining a safe and efficient heating system. This guide explores the common reasons behind boiler leaks, assesses their severity, and provides actionable solutions. Additionally, it outlines the costs associated with repairs and replacements, helping you make informed decisions about your heating system.

The Implications of a Leaking Boiler

A leaking boiler is not merely a nuisance—it signals underlying issues that could escalate if left unattended. Water leaks can lead to:

Structural Damage: Persistent leaks can weaken floors, walls, and ceilings.
Increased Energy Bills: Inefficiencies caused by leaks can result in higher energy consumption.
Safety Hazards: Although rare, significant leaks may pose electrical risks or contribute to mold growth.
Disrupted Comfort: A malfunctioning boiler can lead to inadequate heating and hot water supply.

Given these potential risks, addressing a boiler leak promptly is essential to ensure your home’s safety and comfort.

Identifying the Source of the Leak

Before undertaking any repairs, pinpointing the exact source of the leak is vital. Common leak origins include:

Underneath the Boiler: Often due to corroded or poorly installed pipework.
Pressure Relief Valve (PRV): Excessive pressure can cause the PRV to release water.
Heat Exchanger: Cracks or faults in the heat exchanger can lead to leaks.
Internal Seals: Degraded seals within the boiler may allow water to escape.

Inspecting for Leaks

Visual Inspection: Examine the area around the boiler for water trails or puddles.
Pipework Check: Look for corrosion, loose joints, or damaged pipes beneath the boiler.
Pressure Gauge Monitoring: Regularly check the boiler’s pressure gauge to identify irregularities.
Listen for Unusual Sounds: Hissing or dripping noises can indicate a leak.

Read more about: What to do if you have a leaking boiler

Common Causes of Boiler Leaks

1. Corroded or Faulty Pipework

Corrosion: Over time, water and metallic debris can corrode copper pipes, creating gaps through which water can escape.

Poor Installation: Incorrectly fitted joints or inadequate sealing during installation can lead to leaks.

Solution: Corroded pipes often require replacement by a certified engineer. In cases of minor leaks, tightening connections may suffice, but extensive corrosion typically necessitates pipework overhaul.

2. High Boiler Pressure

Excessive Pressure: Boilers operate optimally within specific pressure ranges. High pressure can trigger the PRV to release water to prevent system damage.

Causes: Overfilled systems, faulty expansion vessels, or malfunctions in pressure regulation can cause elevated pressure levels.

Solution: Reducing boiler pressure involves bleeding radiators to release excess water and ensuring the filling loop is properly closed. Persistent high pressure may require professional assessment to identify and rectify underlying issues.

3. Faulty Heat Exchanger

Function: The heat exchanger transfers heat from the burner to the water circulating through the system.

Issues: Cracks or faults in the heat exchanger can cause water to leak, often signaling severe boiler malfunction.

Solution: A compromised heat exchanger usually necessitates replacing the boiler, as repairs can be prohibitively expensive and unreliable.

4. Degraded Internal Seals

Seals’ Role: Internal seals prevent water from leaking out of various boiler components.

Degradation: Over time, seals can wear out or become brittle, leading to leaks.

Solution: Replacing faulty seals requires professional expertise. In some cases, extensive seal degradation may warrant a complete boiler replacement.

5. Airlocks in the System

Airlocks: Trapped air within the heating system can disrupt water flow, causing localized leaks.

Solution: Bleeding radiators to release trapped air can resolve minor leaks caused by airlocks. Persistent issues may require a system flush or professional intervention.

DIY Solutions for Minor Leaks

While some boiler leaks demand professional attention, certain minor issues can be addressed independently:

Tightening Connections: Carefully tightening loose pipe joints may stop minor leaks.
Bleeding Radiators: Removing trapped air can alleviate leaks caused by airlocks.
Using Sealants: For small pinhole leaks, specialized boiler sealants can temporarily contain the leak until professional repairs are made.

Caution: Always turn off the boiler and allow it to cool before attempting any DIY fixes. If unsure, it’s safer to consult a certified engineer to prevent further damage or safety risks.

When to Seek Professional Help

Certain scenarios require immediate professional intervention:

Persistent Leaks: Ongoing leaks despite DIY attempts indicate more serious issues.
Heat Exchanger Faults: Cracked or faulty heat exchangers necessitate expert repairs or boiler replacement.
High Pressure Problems: Continuous high pressure can damage the boiler and pose safety risks.
Complex Corrosion: Extensive pipe corrosion often requires comprehensive system repairs beyond basic fixes.

Read about: Boiler Replacement And Boiler Repair

How long does it take to fit a new boiler?

Cost of Repairing a Leaking Boiler

Repair costs vary based on the leak’s origin and severity:

Minor Pipe Leaks: £80 – £150
Pressure Relief Valve Replacement: £120 – £250
Heat Exchanger Repair/Replacement: £500 – £1,500
System Flush: £200 – £400
Full Boiler Replacement: £800 – £3,000

Note: Prices fluctuate based on boiler type, location, and the extent of the damage. Obtaining multiple quotes from certified engineers ensures competitive pricing and quality service.

Deciding Between Repair and Replacement

Evaluating whether to repair or replace your boiler involves several considerations:

Age of the Boiler: Boilers over 10-15 years old are less efficient and more prone to breakdowns, often making replacement more cost-effective.
Frequency of Repairs: Recurrent issues indicate declining reliability, favoring a new boiler installation.
Repair Costs: High repair costs for critical components like heat exchangers may justify replacement.
Energy Efficiency: Upgrading to a modern, high-efficiency boiler can reduce energy bills and environmental impact.

Read about: Swift Emergency Boiler Repair Service

Benefits of Upgrading to a New Boiler

Investing in a new boiler offers multiple advantages:

Enhanced Efficiency: Modern boilers achieve higher energy efficiency, leading to lower utility bills.
Improved Reliability: New boilers are less likely to experience frequent breakdowns.
Advanced Features: Features like smart thermostats and improved controls enhance user experience and system performance.
Environmental Impact: High-efficiency boilers produce fewer emissions, contributing to a greener environment.
Warranty Coverage: New boilers come with extended warranties, providing peace of mind and protection against future issues.

Financial Assistance for Boiler Replacement

Replacing a boiler can be a significant investment, but various financial options can ease the burden:

LETsheat Financing: Offers flexible payment plans, including interest-free options, allowing homeowners to spread the cost over manageable monthly installments.
Government Grants: Certain regions provide incentives for upgrading to energy-efficient boilers, reducing overall costs.
Trade Discounts: Some providers offer discounts for new installations, bundling services, or referring friends and family.

Choosing the Right Boiler Replacement Service

Selecting a reputable service provider ensures a smooth and efficient boiler replacement process:

Certification and Licensing: Ensure the engineer is Gas Safe registered to comply with safety standards.
Customer Reviews: High ratings on platforms like Trustpilot indicate reliable and quality service.
Warranty and Support: Look for extended warranties and comprehensive after-sales support.
Transparent Pricing: Providers like LETsheat offer fixed price guarantees and price match promises to ensure competitive pricing.
Installation Speed: Quick installation services, such as 24-hour installation, minimize downtime and restore heating promptly.

Advantages of LETsheat for Boiler Repairs and Replacements

LETsheat distinguishes itself as a leading provider for boiler solutions through several key offerings:

Rapid Installation: Guaranteed installation within 24 hours ensures minimal disruption.
Customer Satisfaction: With thousands of positive reviews and a Trustpilot rating of 4.9, LETsheat excels in customer service.
Price Match Guarantee: LETsheat matches any like-for-like quotes, ensuring competitive pricing.
Flexible Financing: Multiple payment options, including interest-free plans, make boiler replacements more accessible.
Extended Warranties: Up to a 12-year guarantee on selected boilers offers long-term protection and peace of mind.
Trusted Trader Status: Recognition as a Which? Trusted Trader underscores LETsheat’s reliability and quality.

Read about: Step-by-Step Guide to Boiler Installation | Expert Tips

Preventative Measures to Avoid Future Leaks

Implementing regular maintenance practices can significantly reduce the likelihood of encountering boiler leaks:

Annual Servicing: Schedule yearly inspections with a certified Gas Safe engineer to identify and address potential issues early.
System Flushing: Periodically flush your heating system to remove sludge and limescale, maintaining clean and unobstructed pipes.
Monitor Pressure Levels: Regularly check the boiler’s pressure gauge and adjust as needed to prevent over-pressurization.
Inspect Pipework: Routinely examine pipe connections for signs of corrosion or wear, addressing minor issues before they escalate.
Install a Magnetic Filter: LETsheat includes a magnetic filter with installations to capture metallic debris, prolonging boiler lifespan and preventing blockages.

Conclusion

A leaking boiler is a clear indicator that your heating system requires attention. Whether the issue stems from corroded pipes, high pressure, faulty heat exchangers, or degraded seals, understanding the root cause is essential for effective resolution. While minor leaks can sometimes be managed through DIY methods, significant issues often necessitate professional intervention to ensure safety and compliance with regulations.

Investing in a new boiler offers numerous benefits, including enhanced efficiency, improved reliability, and reduced energy costs. Platforms like LETsheat provide comprehensive solutions, from swift installations and competitive pricing to extended warranties and flexible financing options, making boiler replacements accessible and affordable.

Regular maintenance and proactive upgrades not only prevent leaks but also contribute to a more sustainable and cost-effective heating system. By choosing a reputable service provider and adhering to best practices, homeowners can ensure their boilers operate efficiently, providing consistent warmth and peace of mind throughout the colder months.

FAQs

What causes a boiler to leak?

Boiler leaks can result from issues like corrosion, high pressure, damaged seals, or cracked components. Regular maintenance can help prevent leaks.

How much does it cost to repair a leaking boiler?

Repair costs for a leaking boiler vary depending on the issue’s severity, typically ranging from £100 to £500 for common repairs.

Can I use my boiler if it’s leaking?

It’s recommended not to use a leaking boiler, as continued use can lead to further damage or safety issues. Always consult a professional for repairs.

How can I prevent boiler leaks?

Regular boiler maintenance, annual inspections, and pressure checks can help prevent leaks by identifying and addressing potential issues early.

Best Heat Only Boilers, Boiler Brands & Prices

Table of Contents

Overview of Heat-Only Boilers

Features and Benefits of Heat-Only Boilers