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Updated: May 1, 2024

Boiler installation

Installing a new boiler may seem straightforward, but several factors can influence the process. Let’s Heat is here to simplify this task for you with our comprehensive guide.

A boiler is a crucial component of any modern home, providing hot water to your taps and heating system. Shopping for a new boiler can be daunting and costly, but Let’s Heat offers all the information you need online.

We’ll outline the key factors to consider when purchasing a new boiler, ensuring you get exactly what your home requires. From understanding installation timelines to finding qualified professionals for the job, we’ve got you covered.

Discover everything you need to know about boiler installation and the associated considerations right here on our page. Let’s Heat is committed to making your boiler replacement process hassle-free.

What are the procedures of new boiler installation?

The procedures for new boiler installation involve several steps, which can vary depending on the complexity of the job. Factors such as replacing a like-for-like combi boiler versus installing a different type or relocating the boiler can impact the process.

However, regardless of the complexity, three main steps are essential for new boiler installation:

First Step: Removal of the old boiler

Before installing the new boiler, the old one must be removed. This process involves clearing and accessing the area around the boiler. If the boiler is located in the attic, it should be reachable via stairs and a safe walkway, with adequate lighting. In some cases, the heating engineer may need to remove old pipework and radiators before installing the new boiler.

Second Step: Installation of the new boiler

Once the old boiler and pipework have been removed, the heating engineer will proceed with installing the new boiler and its associated pipework. The duration of this step can vary depending on the extent of the work required. For like-for-like boiler replacements, this step may be relatively quick.

Third Step: New boiler product tour

After the installation is complete, a heating engineer will conduct a product tour to ensure the new boiler has been installed correctly. During this tour, you’ll learn how to operate the boiler, including using the controls, understanding its features, and setting a heating schedule. Feel free to ask any questions you may have, and consider taking notes for future reference to help maintain your new heating system effectively.

What follows the boiler installation process?

Following the installation of your new boiler, it’s essential to ensure that the heating engineer provides you with a Building Regulations Compliance certificate. This certificate serves as confirmation that the boiler has been installed safely and that the installation has been registered with the manufacturer, validating the warranty. Typically, manufacturers require this registration within 30 days of installation.

To maintain the validity of your warranty, it’s crucial to have your boiler serviced annually by a Gas Safe registered engineer. During the service, the engineer will thoroughly inspect your boiler, including the flue pipe, ensuring correct gas pressure, and assessing its performance during operation.

Read about: Next day boiler installation

Boiler Installation in

What are the types of gas boiler replacement?

If you’re getting a new boiler, then you should know that there are three major types:

Combi boilers

  • Their compact design makes them perfect for homes with limited space
  • Do not require a hot water storage cylinder or a cold-water tank
  • Unsuitable for homes larger homes with multiple bathrooms and a high demand for hot water
  • Not suitable for areas with low mains water pressure

Regular (heat only) boilers

  • Good for homes with multiple bathrooms and a high hot water demand 
  • Perfect for areas with low water pressure from the mains
  • Suitable for homes with older heating systems that may not be able to tolerate high pressure
  • They take space since they need a cistern tank
  • A tank in the attic can freeze in winter and might cause many problems if it starts leaking

System boilers

  • Also recommend for homes with more than one bathroom and a high demand for hot water
  • Do not need a tank in the attic
  • Internal components can make installation much easier.
  • Unsuitable for areas with low water pressure 
  • Not suitable for homes with traditional heating systems that can’t tolerate high water pressure 
  • You need to consider where to put the water tank if a system boiler is replacing your combi boiler.

Read Also : Boiler Installation | Boiler Replacement – Smart Adapt

Which boiler brand to choose from?

We offer a variety of different boilers from different brands. You can take a look at some of the types we offer down below:

Viessmann Boilers

Viessmann boilers have won plenty of awards. They have a reputation for being technically superb. 

With its superb German engineering and simple, crisp designs, it has a 5-star reputation. Needless to say that it dominates the European boiler market.

Worcester Bosch Boilers

When it comes to boiler, then rest assured that Worcester Bosch is a household name. It is an award-winning boiler.

It is the best boiler brand in the UK thanks to their excellent guarantee offer, customer service, and easily sourced parts.

Alpha Boilers

Over the last few years, Alpha has increased its share of the market due to it being a budget-option for many customers.

It is a fantastic option for people who are looking for a reliable yet affordable boiler.

What is the cost for a new boiler installation?

The first thing you might think of when buying a new boiler is the possible cost. Boilers can be expensive but getting a good boiler is a good investment, new boiler installation cost.

You will of course want your boiler to be efficient and to last for years to come.

The price for a new boiler replacement can vary, depending on many crucial elements:

  • The type of boiler you want to install in your house (e.g. combi, system or regular)
  • Moving you boiler to a different location
  • The model you aim to buy (e.g. mid-range vs. premium)
  • Converting your current boiler with another type (e.g. system to combi)
  • The extras you get (e.g. filters, a controller or smart thermostats)

Undoubtedly, replacing your current combi boiler with another is more cost-effective than converting your system boiler to a combi.

Converting your boiler requires additional time, labor, and materials, not to mention the complexity of the process itself.

The choice of boiler model also significantly influences the cost. At Let’s Heat, we provide top brands in the boiler industry such as Alpha, Worcester Bosch, and Viessmann.

We offer various payment options to our customers. You can either pay in cash or opt for a boiler finance plan, allowing you to spread the cost of your new boiler with monthly payments.

Read more: Professional & Reliable Boiler Repair

New Boiler installation

What is needed for a boiler installation?

Installing a boiler is not a DIY task. It should be carried out by a fully qualified professional to ensure safe and legal installation. The first step is to hire a Gas Safe registered heating engineer (or OFTEC for oil boilers). This is all you need to do to get a boiler fitted. Our heating engineer will often source the appropriate boiler and necessary components themselves.

If you prefer to source a boiler yourself to save costs, you can do so. However, you will still need to hire a Gas Safe registered heating engineer to install your boiler.

Some important factors to consider for a boiler replacement:

As has been noted, a new boiler replacement might not be that cheap. So it’s important to consider some key factors before making your final decision.

The size of boiler you need (kW output)

When discussing boiler size, we’re referring to its power output, measured in kilowatts (kW), not its physical dimensions.

A higher output boiler means more power, but it’s not advisable to choose the highest output rating as it can lead to increased energy bills. Conversely, a too low output rating may not meet your heating demands effectively.

To determine the appropriate output rating, consider factors such as the number of bathrooms and radiators in your home. This information gives insight into your domestic hot water and central heating requirements.

For accurate sizing, seek a quote from a Gas Safe registered engineer. If you have a specific brand in mind, consult their website and guidelines, as many manufacturers offer advice to help you choose the right boiler size.

Read about: Replacing a regular boiler with a combi boiler 

 Here is a table to guide you through what you need to know:

No. of bedrooms1 bath & shower2 baths & showers
2-bedroom house26kW29kW
3 -bedroom house29kW35kW
4-bedroom house29kW35kW
5-bedroom house35kW35kW

To highlight, small homes with one bathroom and limited space for a cylinder should consider opting for a combi boiler.

Location of the New Boiler:

Installing your new boiler in the same location as the old one is cost-effective and simplifies the process. However, if you choose to relocate the boiler, expect additional costs. Moving the boiler requires extra work, including installing a new flue and rerouting pipework, which can be messy.

Energy Efficiency:

To reduce your carbon footprint and save money on energy bills, opt for an energy-efficient boiler. Let’s Heat offers modern A-rated boilers paired with smart thermostats to minimize energy wastage. According to the Energy Saving Trust, replacing an old boiler with an A-rated one and heating controls can save around £340 and 1,500kg of carbon dioxide annually.

Best Installation Time:

The duration of replacement boiler installation varies depending on complexity. Replacing a combi boiler with another typically takes about 1 day, while converting to a different type, like a system boiler, may require 2 days.

Regulations for Boiler Installation:

Numerous building regulations govern boiler installation, covering aspects such as acceptable locations, flue placement, gas pipe sizing, and efficiency ratings. To ensure compliance, enlist the services of a Gas Safe registered heating engineer. Upon completion, you’ll receive a Building Regulations Compliance certificate, confirming adherence to all necessary regulations.

Energy regulations:

Over the last few years, the UK has passed some guidelines for boiler installation and energy efficiency:

  • Gas boilers should have at least a 92% ErP efficiency regardless of boiler type.
  • A Combi boiler installation should have one energy-saving feature.
  • You should have functioning time and temperature controls.

Read about: Baxi Combi Boilers Review

New Boiler installation

How long does it take to install a boiler?

The duration of a boiler installation can vary depending on factors such as the type of boiler being installed, the complexity of the job, and the specifics of your home’s setup. Generally, replacing a like-for-like boiler can take around 1 to 2 days. However, if additional work is required, such as relocating the boiler or converting to a different type of boiler system, it may take longer, possibly up to 3 days or more. It’s best to consult with a qualified heating engineer who can provide a more accurate estimate based on your specific circumstances.

Read more : Boiler Installation Time

When should you replace your boiler?

Knowing when to replace your boiler is crucial for ensuring efficient heating and avoiding costly repairs. Here are some indicators that it might be time to invest in a new boiler:

  1. Age: Boilers typically last around 10 years. If your boiler is reaching or exceeding this age, it’s a good sign that it’s time for a replacement.
  2. Efficiency: Older boilers, typically over 10 years old, are less efficient, with a G-rated efficiency of around 70%. Modern boilers, however, boast up to 90% efficiency, meaning less wasted energy and lower bills.
  3. Costly Repairs: If your boiler is experiencing frequent breakdowns or requires expensive repairs, such as replacing the PCB or heat exchanger, it may be more cost-effective to invest in a new boiler.
  4. Relocation: If you’re planning to move your boiler to a different location in your home, it makes sense to install a new boiler with a fresh warranty rather than moving the old one.
  5. Inadequate Hot Water Supply: If your current boiler struggles to meet your hot water demands, it may be time to upgrade to a model with a higher power output.

By recognizing these signs, you can make an informed decision about when to replace your boiler, ensuring efficient heating and long-term savings.

 Can I get the next-day boiler installation?

Yes, you can schedule your boiler installation if you place your order before 12 pm during the colder months and 2 pm in the warmer months.

We offer nationwide next-day boiler fitting services across England, Wales, and Scotland. This means you won’t have to endure long periods without heating, even during the chilly winter months.

Not many boiler companies can provide such swift nationwide installation services. If you require a boiler, it’s advisable to request a quote from Let’s Heat as soon as possible.

Finance option 

If you find yourself unable to buy a new boiler outright, then you should consider a boiler finance plan.

If you are eligible to use boiler financing, then you will be able to pay monthly for you boiler over the course of 2, 4, 6 or 10 years.

To sum up:                                               

  • No deposit is needed
  • You can make overpayments with no penalty 
  • The ability to spread the cost over 2, 4, 6, or 10 years
  • Interest rates from 9.9% APR

Read about: Professional & Reliable Boiler Repair

FAQs

How much does it cost to install a new boiler system?

Depending on how complex the installation is, The cost of installing a boiler can range vastly. You can expect to pay between £500 to £2,500 for a new system boiler. Additional cost may be added for getting your boiler fitted.

What does installing a new boiler involve?

After the installation of your new boiler, you should make sure that the heating engineer provides you with a Building Regulations Compliance certificate. This certificate confirms that the unit has been safely installed, and that the installation of your boiler has been registered with the manufacturer to validate the warranty as well. Most manufacturers request that this takes place within 30 days of installation.
In order to keep your warranty valid, your boiler should be serviced annually by a Gas Safe registered engineer. This means that they will inspect your boiler inside and out, checking the flue pipe, ensuring that the gas pressure is correct and checking how the boiler performs during operation.

How quickly can you get a new boiler installed?

At Let’s heat we can supply and fit your new boiler in 24 hours.

What happens when a new boiler is fitted?

The engineer might do a simple chemical flush or a power flush over several hours for more intensive cleaning. Then, they will adjust the pipework, even reconfiguring it to minimise the heat loss of your boiler. In the end, your engineer will install the boiler at the location you have agreed on, usually in the boiler room.

What is meant by a Condensing Boiler?

The terms condensing and non-condensing can be confusing to people shopping for a new boiler.
Presently, it is stated by law that new boilers must use condensing technology. In short, you don’t have to worry about getting a condensing boiler.

Is it legal to install my own boiler?

Only if you are a Gas Safe registered heating engineer with the required accreditations. Otherwise you definitely should not do it yourself.

Can a plumber install a boiler?

Only if they are a Gas Safe registered heating engineer as well as a plumber.

Do they turn the water off to fit a boiler?

As long as your boiler is in good working order, you should not have to worry about this small risk. A combi boiler should shut down automatically if it detects a drop in mains pressure or if the temperature inside the system gets too high, as would happen without a supply of cold water.

How do I install a boiler in my house?

By enlisting the help of a Gas Safe registered heating engineer.

When is the best time to get a new boiler installation?

There’s not always a right time. However, if you’re planning on replacing yours before it completely packs up, then it is recommend that you do it during the summer months. Summer time is the best because you will be less reliant on heating and hot water so the process should be pain free.