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Last updated: 17th August, 2023

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Are You About to Spend Too Much on a New Boiler?

Are You About to Spend Too Much on a New Boiler?

According to a 2017 study by uSwitch, 18% of UK households had experienced a boiler breakdown. That’s roughly 4.7million broken boilers, each with repairs or replacements costing anything between £50 and £5,000+.

Some people can end up paying well over even £10,000 for work on their boiler and pipes when disreputable engineers are added.

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Having a broken boiler in the middle of winter is stressful enough without having to worry that a rogue engineer is overcharging you. Here are some steps to avoid paying too much for a new boiler replacement.

1. Know What You’re Looking For

Knowing what you’re looking for in a new boiler cost can help you estimate roughly how much you should spend on your boiler replacement.

Having even a small amount of knowledge can also help you to determine if an engineer is trying to pull the wool over your eyes when it comes to what you need.

It’s worth researching beforehand which boiler is right for your home. This includes taking a look at your current boiler.

You may be looking to swap your old system out for a combi boiler, or you may just be looking to replace your current combi with a brand-new one.

You should also consider whether your boiler uses LPG or gas and the output size your household requires.

Boiler Sizes

The size of the boiler often refers to the output in kilowatts (kW) as opposed to the physical dimensions of the boiler itself. Kilowatts are the measurement of energy that is output by the boiler in the form of heat.

Generally, the bigger your home and family, the larger the output you’ll need and the more expensive the boiler.

iHeat has a helpful guide on how to determine the right type and size of boiler for your home.

2. Account for Extra Costs

If you are planning to have your boiler moved, or if the job is more complex, such as removing a back boiler, you should expect to pay extra on top of the average boiler and installation cost.

Sometimes, you may require new pipes if the old ones are leaking which can also cost extra. Any optional features such as smart thermostats and wireless controls will also pose additional costs.

3. Get Multiple Quotes

As tempting as it may be to get your boiler repaired as soon as possible, calling an engineer and accepting the first quote you're given is a mistake. As you would with most things, shop around for the best deal.

According to the Energy Saving Trust, the average new boiler installation costs around £2,300, but you can expect to find a boiler installation between £1,500 and £3,500, depending on the factors you’ve already considered.

Once you have found multiple quotes, you should evaluate the trustworthiness of the engineers who have given them.

If the cheapest quote came from an installer with one star reviews for example, you know you should probably avoid them.

To get a quick and easy quote in less than ten minutes, click here. iHeat offers a reliable service for an affordable price, and a Gas Safe registered engineer can be with you to replace your boiler as soon as 24 hours with no hidden charges.

4. Arrange a Finance Plan that Suits You

Ensure you can pay for your boiler the way you want to. If you require a finance plan over 10 years, make sure that this is an option your installer can offer you to avoid an awkward conversation if they require an upfront payment.

iHeat offers flexible finance plans such as 0% apr for 2 years, so no matter how you’d like to pay, iHeat has got you covered.

Gas Safe Engineers

Don’t be fooled by cowboy installers. Ensure your engineer is Gas Safe registered and has good reviews. iHeat only hires reputable local Gas Safe engineers. Get your free fixed quote today.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What factors determine the cost of a new boiler?

Several factors impact the cost of a new boiler, including the make and model, the efficiency rating, the size of the boiler, and the installation costs. Generally, new combi boilers cost between £600 and £2,000, while heat-only or system models range from £500 to £2,500.

How can I ensure I'm getting a good deal on a new boiler?

To get the best deal on a new boiler, it's essential to compare quotes from several local engineers or companies. This helps you to assess their quality of service, prices, and experience. Researching different makes and models and determining your specific needs will let you find a suitable boiler at a competitive price.

What are the signs that it's time to replace my boiler?

Signs pointing to the need for a boiler replacement include frequent breakdowns, increased repair costs, difficulty in finding replacement parts, and poor energy efficiency. If you find yourself calling out an engineer more than once a year for repairs, it might be time to consider a new boiler.

How much can I save on energy bills with a new boiler?

By installing an energy-efficient boiler, you can significantly reduce your energy bills. Heating and hot water account for over half of what you spend on energy annually, so an efficient boiler makes a considerable difference. The actual savings depend on your current boiler's efficiency and the efficiency rating of the new system you choose to install.

What are the main types of boilers to consider?

There are three main types of boilers to consider when replacing your current system: combi boilers, heat-only boilers, and system boilers. Combi boilers provide hot water and heating without the need for separate hot water cylinders, making them compact and energy efficient. Heat-only and system boilers store hot water separately and are often favoured in larger homes or those with multiple bathrooms.

Are there financing options available for new boiler purchases?

Yes, there are financing options available for new boiler purchases. Many companies offer various payment plans, like monthly instalments, that can help spread the cost of your new boiler. Additionally, some government schemes and grants can help eligible households with the costs of installing a more energy-efficient heating system.

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Article by
Stephen Day | Co-founder
Gas Safe registered and FGAS certified engineer with over 20 years experience in the heating and cooling industry.