When it comes to boilers, many homeowners in the UK turn to Ideal boilers, either because they already own one or are researching for a replacement. The question remains: are Ideal boilers actually worth the investment, or are they merely an affordable option with hidden costs? In this review, we’ll break down the essential aspects of Ideal boilers and whether they are a good choice in 2024.
Overview of Ideal Boilers
Ideal Boilers have gained a significant presence in UK households, primarily due to aggressive marketing and incentivization strategies aimed at local engineers. These boilers are known for being cost-effective, but does their low price come with sacrifices in quality and longevity?
The short answer is that while Ideal boilers are affordable, they often lack the premium features and durability found in higher-end brands. Unless you’re opting for one of their premium models, you might be buying into an average boiler that could experience issues post-warranty.
Key Review Criteria
Our review of Ideal boilers is based on several factors, including:
- Installation experience (from verified Gas Safe engineers)
- Consumer reviews on platforms like Trustpilot
- Our own in-house video review of the most popular model: the Ideal Logic.
Ideal Boiler Prices
As of July 2024, the average cost of a boiler installation in the UK is around £2,900, but Ideal boilers are priced lower at an average of £2,400. This £500 difference can be enticing for homeowners looking to save money, but it’s important to consider what you’re getting for this reduced price.
While the initial savings are attractive, a lower upfront cost may indicate shorter warranties, fewer premium features, and potentially more frequent breakdowns once the warranty expires. It’s worth asking yourself whether saving £500 now is worth the risk of paying for repairs down the line.
Ideal Boiler Warranty
A boiler’s warranty is often a reflection of its overall quality. In general, the longer the warranty, the more confidence the manufacturer has in the product’s durability. Ideal boilers come with a standard 7-year warranty, which is decent but falls short of the 10-year warranties offered by premium brands like Worcester Bosch.
It’s also important to note that boiler warranties cover only manufacturer-related faults. If there were any issues during installation, the responsibility for repairs might fall on the installer, not the manufacturer. This can sometimes lead to disputes between installers and manufacturers, so it’s essential to choose both your boiler and your installer wisely.
Ideal Boilers: Warranty Coverage
The warranty on Ideal boilers promises that the manufacturer will send an engineer to repair any issues related to the boiler or its components. If the boiler is beyond repair due to a manufacturer defect, they will replace it. However, it’s important to ensure that your installer is Gas Safe registered and offers at least a 12-month workmanship guarantee to avoid potential conflicts.
Ideal Boiler Reviews: Customer Feedback
Ideal Logic+
The Ideal Logic+ is one of the brand’s flagship models, and for good reason. With a 7-year warranty, compact design, and an A-rating for efficiency, it’s a solid option for households looking for value and reliability. This model is available in three power outputs: 24kW, 30kW, and 35kW, offering flexibility depending on your home’s heating requirements.
Key Features of the Ideal Logic+:
- Energy Saving Trust endorsed
- 7-year warranty when installed by an approved engineer
- Quiet operation (awarded Quiet Mark certification)
- Compact size, fitting in most standard cupboards
- Frost protection for those chilly winter months
- Compatibility with smart thermostats
Ideal Vogue
For those looking for a premium option, the Ideal Vogue stands out. While it comes at a higher price point, the 10-year warranty and premium components justify the cost. The Ideal Vogue offers both style and performance, featuring a sleek design with a backlit LCD display and a compact size that fits well in most homes.
Key Features of the Ideal Vogue:
- 10-year warranty
- Full-color 3.5” LCD display
- Premium components for increased durability
- Frost protection
- A-rating for both hot water and heating efficiency
Installation and Support
Ideal boilers are a popular choice among local engineers, but it’s essential to ensure your installer is Gas Safe registered and offers a workmanship guarantee. When choosing a boiler, it’s not just the product that matters, but also the quality of the installation. An improperly installed boiler can lead to long-term issues, and resolving disputes between installers and manufacturers can be challenging.
At leatheat , all our installers are Gas Safe registered, and we offer a minimum 12-month guarantee on all installations to ensure peace of mind.
Weather Compensation Devices: An Energy-Saving Innovation
One of the standout features offered by Ideal boilers is the weather compensation device. This device adjusts your boiler’s output based on the temperature outside, ensuring that your home is heated efficiently without wasting energy. While these devices are a great addition for energy-conscious homeowners, they do require some adjustments in how you interact with your heating system.
By automatically reducing the temperature when it’s warmer outside, the device ensures that you’re not wasting energy or money. Additionally, the inclusion of weather compensation makes Ideal boilers compliant with the UK government’s Boiler Plus initiative, which mandates energy-efficient installations to reduce carbon emissions.
Comparing Ideal Boilers to Competitors
When it comes to warranties and overall reliability, Ideal boilers generally fall in the mid-range category. Brands like Worcester Bosch and Vaillant offer longer warranties and premium features but come at a higher cost. If you’re willing to invest a bit more upfront for peace of mind, these brands might be worth considering.
That being said, Ideal offers a solid balance between affordability and performance, making them a good option for those looking for a budget-friendly boiler with decent features. In terms of customer satisfaction, Ideal boilers receive mixed reviews. While some customers praise their performance and value, others report issues with reliability after a few years of use.
Combi Boiler Deals and Flexible Payment Options
At lets heat, we understand that a boiler is a significant investment, which is why we offer flexible payment options, including interest-free finance. We also provide up to 12-year guarantees on select Ideal boilers, ensuring that you’re covered in case of any issues.
Additionally, our fixed price guarantee means that there are no hidden costs or surprises when you choose to install a new Ideal boiler with us. Get an instant fixed price quote for a new boiler installation and join thousands of satisfied customers.
Conclusion: Are Ideal Boilers Worth It?
Ideal boilers offer a great balance of affordability and performance, especially for those on a budget. While they may not have the premium features or extended warranties of higher-end brands like Worcester Bosch, they are a solid option for many homeowners. Their compact design, energy efficiency, and reasonable warranty make them a popular choice across the UK.
However, it’s crucial to weigh the pros and cons before deciding. If you’re looking for a long-lasting, premium boiler with minimal risk of breakdowns, you might want to explore more expensive options. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly boiler with decent performance and energy savings, Ideal boilers could be the right choice for your home.
For more information or to get a quote on a new Ideal boiler installation, visit our website today.