If you’re reading this article, you’ve probably already decided it’s time for a new boiler. But, you might find that the money you pay for a new boiler costs less than you thought it would. Also, they come as an easily handled unit, so the labour involved when installing a replacement is at a minimum too.
In the UK, the average cost of a new boiler replacement for a standard 3 bedroom house, ranges from £400 up to about £3000. Usually, this price depends on which model and manufacturer you choose, whether you are moving the boiler to a different location, and the installer’s labour rates.
Examples of price ranges
Depending on the size of your home and your requirements, you can choose from three types of boiler.
Firstly, a Combi boiler costs between £500 and £2000 to buy with installation in the region of £500 to £1000. That means, the total cost to have a new boiler fitted will start at £1000 and work its way up to about £3000.
Alternatively, a System boiler falls between £500 and £2500 to buy. And, up to £1000 to fit. Therefore, the total amount starts at £1000 at the low end and reaches £3500 at the expensive end.
Finally, Conventional boilers cost between £500 and £3000 to buy with labour costing between £500 and £1000. Therefore, the total ranges from £1000 to £4000.
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Main Topics
Top 9 Best New Boilers: Cost Comparison
So, if you want to buy a new boiler, let’s look at the specifications of the UK’s best selling models from some of the best manufacturers.
| Boiler brand | Model | Type | Range | Typical price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vaillant | ecoTEC plus | Combi | 20kW, 25kW, 30kW 32kW, 35kW, 38kW | £1100 to £1500 |
| Worcester Bosch | Greenstar i | Combi | 25kW, 30kW | £900 to £1100 |
| Baxi | 800 Platinum | Combi | 24kW, 28kW, 33kW, 40kW | £1200 to £1500 |
| Baxi | 800 | System | 18kW, 24kW, 30kW, 36kW | £900 to £1118 |
| Ideal | Logic Max | System | 15kW, 18kW, 24kW, 30kW | £800 to £1000 |
| Viessmann | Vitodens 200-W | System | 19kW, 26kW, 30kW, 35kW | £1250 to £1500 |
| Baxi | 400 Heat | Conventional | 12kW, 15kW, 18kW, 24kw, 30kW | £650 to £950 |
| Ideal | Logic Max Heat | Conventional | 12kW, 15kW, 18kW, 24kW, 30kW | £700 to £950 |
| Viessmann | Vitodens 100W Open Vent | Conventional | 13kW, 16kW, 19kW, 26kW, 35kW | £900 to £1200 |
Usually, the cost to install a new boiler can be anywhere between £500 to £1000, depending on where you live in the country (London and the Southeast tend to have the most expensive labour rates). Also, it will cost more to install a boiler for the first time or if you need a new boiler moved to a different location.
Moving a boiler involves adding additional pipework for fuel, hot water and central heating, and cutting through an external wall to accommodate a flue. While just having a change of boiler, will often use the existing pipework.
To make the total price a bit cheaper, there are always new boiler deals available on the market. Use the form at the top of the page to submit your details and we’ll get back to you with 3 or 4 quotes from boiler suppliers.
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Vaillant ecoTEC plus Combi
This boiler caters for a complete range of homes with the 25kW model ideal for 1 to 2 bedroom homes. Although combis aren’t usually recommended for large homes, the 38kW version is perfect for 5 and 6 bedroom homes home that need lots of hot water. The boiler has a standard guarantee of 5 years. But, for a boiler supplied and fitted by a Vaillant accredited installer, the guarantee entends to 7 or 10 years.
It has a backlit display so it’s easy to see in a dark cupboard and is very quiet in operation. In fact, it’s been awarded the Quiet Mark accreditation.
Key specifications for the 25kW combi include:
- 94% efficiency.
- ERP rating for heat and water are both ‘A’ rating.
- Flowrate is 13L/min.
For the 32kW model:
- 94% efficiency.
- ERP rating for heat and water are both ‘A’ rating.
- Flowrate is 14.3L/min.
Worcester Bosch Greenstar I Combi
This popular boiler has received the Which? Best Buy Award for 7 years running. It also holds a Royal Warrant. It’s compact to allow fitting inside a kitchen cupboard. And, it has a low energy pump. The 25kW is great for 1 to 2 bedroom homes with 1 bathroom. But, for a 3 to 4 bedroom home with 2 bathrooms, choose the 30kW model.
- 94% efficiency.
- ERP rating for both heat and water is ‘A’.
- Flowrate is 9 L/min.
- Wall–mounted.
Baxi 800 Platinum Combi
The boilers in this range can be linked to a smartphone app for easy control. They also have an optional mechanical 24–hour timer in case you don’t use smart technology. It has a compact size and is lightweight enough to make installation simple. Each boiler has a 10–year warranty, so you know it’s going to last. The 24kW model is ideal for a 1 to 2 bedroom, while the 28kW and 33kW work with a 3 to 4 bedroom house. The 40kW model is suitable for a house with more than 5 bedrooms and multiple bathrooms.
- 93% efficiency.
- ERP rating is ‘A’ for both heat and water.
- Flowrate for the 40kW model is 16.4 L/min.
- Wall–mounted.
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Baxi 800 System
System boilers deliver more water than a combi as it has a storage tank. So, unlike a Combi, the power output isn’t as linked to the size of the house. System boilers are compact and lightweight to simplify the installation. The 18kW model has a 7–year warranty, while the 24kW version has a 10–year warranty. All versions of this system boiler are highly efficient and reliable.
The 18kW model is suited to a medium–sized house that doesn’t need high amounts of heating or hot water.
The 24kW works better with homes with more than 2 bathrooms.
Each boiler in the range has an Adey Micromagnetic system filter to help prevent faults by allowing the sludge to build up. And, the unit can be controlled using a smartphone or tablet.
All models have the following specifications:
- 93% efficient.
- ERP rating for heat is ‘A’.
- Not compatible with LPG.
- Wall–mounted
Ideal Logic Max System
Ideal is among the most well–known manufacturers in the UK and has been trading for over 100 years. This particular product has a 2–year warranty. However, the heat exchanger has a 10–year warranty.
They are easily installed as they are lightweight and compact, so are easy to handle. They could be installed within a kitchen cupboard. And, have frost protection, which is extremely useful during a UK winter.
The 15kW model is suitable for homes with around 10 radiators, the 18kW model suits a house with 10 to 15 radiators, the 24kW model will cope with 15 radiators. And, the 30kW model is the best for properties with 20 radiators.
All models have the following specifications:
- 93% or 94% efficient.
- ERP rating of ‘A’ for heating.
- Wall–mounted.
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Viessman Vitodens 200-W System
The models in this range come with a touchscreen control panel and have an option to connect to the internet via LAN for computer or smartphone control. You can configure up to 6 of these boilers in a cascade providing up to 594kW output.
All models have the following specifications:
- 89% efficiency.
- Warranty 3 to 5 years.
- ERP rating ‘A’ for heat.
- Wall–mounted.
- LGP compatible.
Baxi 400 Heat Conventional
This range has up to 5 years warranty on parts and labour and is made in the UK. The units are compact and can easily fit inside a cupboard.
The 12kW and 15kW models will supply enough heat for houses with up to 10 radiators. While the 18kW and 24kW supply homes with up to 15 radiators. Finally, the 30kW boiler will supply up to 20 radiators.
All models have the following specifications:
- 89% efficiency.
- Wall–mounted.
- ERP rating ‘A’.
Ideal Logic Max Heat Conventional
The whole range has a 10–year warranty on parts and labour. The 12kW and 15kW models will suit houses with up to 10 radiators. While the 18kW and 24kW produce enough heat for homes with up to 15 radiators. Finally, the 30kW boiler will supply up to 20 radiators.
All models have the following specifications:
- 93% to 94% efficiency.
- Wall–mounted.
- ERP rating ‘A’.
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Viessmann Vitodens 100W Open Vent Conventional
Each model in this range has a 5–year warranty. The 13kW and 16kW models will suit homes with up to 10 radiators. While the 19kW and 26kW produce enough heat for homes with up to 15 radiators. Finally, the 35kW boiler will supply up to 20 radiators.
All models have the following specifications:
- 88% to 89% efficiency.
- Wall–mounted.
- ERP rating ‘A’.
New Boiler Installation Cost Factors
Apart from the cost of the boiler itself, the main costs depend on the amount of work involved when installing the boiler. Let’s look at these in more detail.
Generally, all boiler models within a specific range are the same except for the output heat. This means that each model has the same installation process. However, when we move away from the boiler, we find that the house size, number of rooms, number and size of radiators and amount of pipework will vary the installation cost considerably. Also, the majority of modern boilers are compact and wall–mounted allowing them to be hidden within a cupboard. Compare this with older models which were often free–standing. This means that if you want to install the boiler in a changed location, you will have to pay for the pipework to be moved and for a flue hole in an outside wall.
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Other factors include:
- The type of boiler you choose will depend on whether you want more hot water than heating or if heating is your priority.
- Are you having a new boiler installation rather than a replacement? If so then you’ll need to fit all the pipework and radiators from scratch.
- Will you be using another method to produce heat? Some boilers are compatible with solar water heaters, and the storage tank can be adapted to use both.
- A system cleanse to remove all traces of sludge and metal debris from the radiators and pipes.
- Adding a specialist sludge filter such as an Adey Magnaclean. A typical price for this will be between £100 and £200.
- Fitting thermostatic radiator valves cost around £15 per radiator but will help keep the system balanced with comfortable room temperatures. It also means that you won’t have to heat rooms that aren’t being used.
- If you intend installing a Conventional boiler, you will need a cold water feed tank in the loft and a hot water cylinder for storage. And of course, a System boiler will be the same, without the feed tank.
- A simple boiler change such as Combi to Combi will be relatively straightforward and won’t usually need any extra pipework. However, if you’re changing from a System to a Combi or from a Conventional to a Combi, you must have different arrangements of pipework, which means more labour costs.
- Moving location from downstairs to upstairs will involve scaffolding on the outside of the house to assist with fitting the flue.
Additional Boiler Costs
| Job | Price range |
|---|---|
| Boiler flue | £175 for tradesman & £100 for labourer per day |
| Plume kit | £75 |
| Upgrading mains gas pipe | £150 to £900 depending on improvements |
| Cost of moving a boiler | £300 to £800 |
| Upgraded heating controls | £70 to £700 |
| Upgraded warranty | Contact manufacturer for a quote |
| Adding a magnetic boiler filter | £100 to £200 |
| Chemical flush | £450 to £800 |
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Boiler flue
A flue allows the waste gases, particularly carbon monoxide to exit the boiler to the open air. Usually, the air intake is incorporated into the flue using two concentric pipes. This is called a ‘balanced flue’. Although a lot of this work will consist of cutting a hole through an external wall, it must be done properly and done by or supervised by a qualified heating engineer. You need to install a flue when you fit a new gas boiler or if an existing flue becomes damaged. The materials to extend a flue pipe cost about £40/m.
Plume kit
A plume kit is used to adapt an existing flue outlet that no longer complies with the regulations. For example, if the existing flue is at head height, or too near to a window.
Main Gas Pipe Upgrade
Many old Conventional and System boilers used a 15mm gas supply pipe. This is no longer legal. These days most combi boilers need a 22mm supply pipe. Or, if it’s a long–distance from the gas meter to the appliance it might need a 28mm or 35mm pipe.
You might also need an upgrade if you’re increasing the power output by installing a larger boiler. The pipe diameter is specified by the GasSafe regulations and instructions issued by the manufacturer.
Boiler Relocation
You might need to relocate your boiler if you intend renovating your property, improving the aesthetics of your home or moving it closer to the bathroom where the majority of the hot water might be needed.
Upgraded Heating Controls
Control panels don’t last forever and when they eventually stop working it makes sense to upgrade to a set of controls more suited to your way of life. Cheap controls incorporate a clock, timer and programmer. While a set of computer-operated controls linked to your smart home and needing a LAN connection could be quite expensive.
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Extended Warranty
All new boilers come with a warranty that provides parts and labour coverage for the duration of the warranty. However, you can if you wish, upgrade this by paying for an ‘extended warranty’. This is also known as a service agreement, service contract or maintenance agreement and gives the user (you) peace of mind knowing that if anything goes wrong after the warranty expires, you are covered for parts and labour or the cost to fit a new boiler if the worst happens. The cost will vary depending on the manufacturer, the additional length of time after your manufacturer’s warranty expires, and the model you install. So, contact the manufacturer for more details.
Magnetic Boiler Filter Addition
A boiler, radiators and associated pipework accumulate sludge over time. If this is left too long it can solidify onto the walls of the pipes and decrease the efficiency of the system. The obvious answer is to incorporate a ‘magnetite and sludge’ filter into the system, such as the Adey Magnaclean
Chemical Flush / Power Flush
This is a method of cleaning out a heating system. The heating engineer uses a pump to force aggressive chemicals around the system to strip the interior of its accumulated sludge. A typical power flush takes around a day to complete and the cost depends on the number of radiators and length of pipework. Usually, this will be done as standard when installing a new boiler and often is incorporated into the total price.
How long does installation take?
Only a qualified and registered heating engineer can install a boiler. It is illegal for anyone else to do this.
If you don’t have a central heating system at present then it won’t just be the boiler that needs installation. You will also need radiators and pipework fitted, which is a long and messy job. Depending on the layout of your home you might have pipes in the ceilings, under the floors or in the walls. Or, any combination of these. If you’re installing a new system throughout the house, you must allow from 1 to 2 weeks. If you are just having a new boiler installed then the duration drops dramatically down to 1 to 2 days.
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Different Types of Boilers
Combi Boilers
This type of boiler heats cold water directly from the mains and delivers it immediately to the taps or the central heating system. This means it doesn’t store hot water in a tank. Because there isn’t a storage capacity, the size of the combi must be carefully chosen to match the size of your property, and the number of bathrooms and sinks you have.
These are great for smaller properties as you don’t need any space to keep a storage tank.
Conventional Boilers
A Conventional boiler, also known as ‘Heat Only’, ‘Regular’, or ‘Open Vent’, receive water from a cold water storage tank kept in the loft. Also, they need a feed and expansion tank which ensures the correct level of water in the boiler. Conventional boilers are very bulky and need a complicated set of feed and storage tanks together with the required pipework to divert the hot water where it’s needed. Therefore, this type of boiler is usually only recommended when the appropriate pipes are already in place.
System Boilers
This type works like a combination of a ‘Combi’ and a ‘Conventional’ boiler. The unit heats cold water from the mains and then stores it inside a hot water cylinder. Therefore, you free up valuable space in the loft and you have enough hot water to feed multiple taps and showers.
If you’re looking for a more green option, you can always opt for an electric boiler.
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Hiring a Heating Engineer: Top 5 Tips
Hiring a properly qualified heating engineer can be difficult if you aren’t sure what to do. We’ll show you 5 tips to help you on your way.
1. Certification
What certification does the engineer hold? A registered and qualified gas heating engineer must be GasSafe registered. Engineers can only become registered if they are suitably qualified, can install and repair heating and domestic water systems, and must be able to sort out an emergency situation quickly and competently. The engineer’s registration card will have a photograph on the front so you know you’re dealing with the correct person.
2. Insurance
Every GasSafe heating engineer must hold insurance in case of a major incident. Ask the engineer what insurance they have and ask for a copy of the policies. Never deal with any heating engineer who hasn’t got the correct insurance.
3. Written estimates
Ask for a full written estimate of the required work. If nothing else it allows you to compare prices with other engineers. By the way, always get three separate estimates and choose the one you feel happy with. All the estimates should be approximately the same. But, if there are big differences, ask why that might be.
4. Cost
GasSafe engineers charge according to their competency, reputation, and overheads. Be wary if the estimate gives a price that’s too low. Remember, you only get what you pay for.
5. Written guarantee
A reputable heating engineer or plumber in the UK will always give a guarantee for their work. If you have problems getting a guarantee, then you might have problems with the installation of your new boiler. If you don’t get a guarantee, you’ll have to pay another GasSafe engineer to come out and fix the problems.
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UK Boiler Grants & Scheme Eligibility
There are schemes and funding available in the UK to provide help with boiler fitting costs. The UK Government has set up the ECO Scheme to enable old inefficient boilers to be replaced free of charge or heavily subsidised using a boiler grant. To see if you’re eligible you must fill out the online questionnaire.
New Boiler FAQs
When should you replace your boiler?
If an average boiler has been looked after properly, it will last for about 15 years. Ensure the boiler has an annual service, as this will make sure it’s looked after and monitored for any problems.
Who qualifies for a free boiler?
To qualify for a free boiler through the UK Government’s ECO scheme, you must satisfy certain benefit requirements as well as be on a mains gas supply, have an existing boiler more than 5 years old, and be a homeowner. Check on this website for the full list of eligible benefits.
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How long does it take to install a boiler?
This depends on whether the boiler is a straight swap (about 1 day), if you’re relocating it to another part of the house (about 2 days), or changing the type of boiler (2 to 3 days). You’ll also allocate additional time if you need more radiators or if you have to upgrade your pipework.
How long do boilers last?
On average, a boiler’s life expectancy will be anywhere between 10 and 15 years. To keep it running as efficiently as possible you must have it serviced regularly and maintained properly following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Get A New Boiler Quote?
If you have an old boiler or you notice an increase in your gas bills and you still feel cold during the winter. Perhaps it’s time to have a new boiler installed. Before you choose a specific boiler, consult a GasSafe heating engineer for advice on the correct gas boiler for the size of your house. To make this easy for you, we have a list of reputable GasSafe heating engineers near you. Just complete the form at the top of this page to receive 3 or 4 quotes for the cost of a new boiler from a qualified heating engineer local to you.
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