Boilers
A boiler is the heart of a home’s central heating system, supplying heat to the radiators and hot water to the taps.
Finding the right boiler for your home
By far the biggest seller and most popular type of boiler in today’s market is the combi boiler.
A combi boiler heats water directly from the mains, giving a constant supply of hot water and removing the need for a separate water tank. They are one of the most efficient types of boiler as they only heat water when it is needed.
But just as there are many different types of home, there are many different types of boiler, including conventional, system and back boilers. Boilers come in all shapes and sizes, so which one is right for you?
The different types of boiler
Combi boilers
- Compact size; good choice for smaller properties
- No loft space needed in your home
- Less pipework in your home, which typically makes the installation cheaper
- Provides a constant flow of hot water from the mains
System boilers
- Suitable for homes with more than one bathroom
- Doesn’t need a loft tank, which saves space
- No feed or expansion cistern makes them more efficient
- Offer a constant supply of hot water to any number of taps
Conventional boilers
- Also known as regular or heat-only boilers — heat the radiators and a separate hot water cylinder
- Best for larger homes with several bathrooms used at the same time
- Uses a cold-water tank (usually in the loft) and a hot water cylinder
- Works well where mains water pressure is low, or where you already have a traditional tank system
The most common boiler sizes
| Output | Suitable for |
|---|---|
| 18–24kW | Flats and houses with 2–3 bedrooms, with up to 10 radiators |
| 25–30kW | 3–4 bedroom properties with up to 15 radiators |
| 31–38kW | Larger houses with up to 20 radiators |
| 40kW+ | Larger properties with more than 20 radiators |
Popular boiler brands
Brands we work with and recommend:
- Vaillant
- Ideal
- Glow Worm
- Intergas
- Worcester Bosch
- Viessmann
- Baxi
- Vokera
When should I consider buying a new boiler?
Unless you are upgrading, the chances are you are replacing a boiler because it is broken or not working correctly. Before you swap it, it is worth getting a second opinion from a Gas Safe registered engineer, who can check whether it can be repaired. A simple and inexpensive remedy may be at hand.
If your boiler can’t be repaired, they can recommend the best type to replace it with, taking into account the size of your home and your budget. You may also want to replace a boiler that is G-rated for energy efficiency, as it wastes fuel and costs you more on your heating bill.
A new boiler can also add value if you are looking to rent out or sell your property, and it affects your property’s EPC rating.
Servicing, repairs and what it costs
It is important to service your boiler regularly to keep it in good working order and guard against future problems. Many manufacturers also require an annual boiler service as part of their warranty terms.
Our published prices
Boiler installation time
In many cases we can recommend and install a new boiler in as little as 48 hours, depending on the type of boiler you choose. It may occasionally take up to three days if the job needs more work, for example converting from a system boiler to a combi, which is more complicated than a straightforward upgrade.
Cheaper ways to cut your heating bill
Along with replacing your boiler, there are less expensive ways to reduce your monthly bill:
- Draught-proof your windows
- Insulate your loft / walls
- Insulate your windows
- Purchase a smart thermostat
- Install thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs)
- Move to a cheaper gas and electricity provider
Boiler questions
Should I repair or replace my boiler?
Before you swap an old boiler for a new one, it is worth getting a second opinion from a Gas Safe registered engineer, who can check whether it can be repaired. A simple, inexpensive fix may be available.
If it can’t be repaired, they can recommend the best type of boiler for your home and budget. You may also wish to replace a G-rated boiler, as it wastes fuel and costs you more on your heating bill.
Do I need to service my boiler every year?
It is important to service your boiler regularly to keep it in good working order and guard against future problems. Many manufacturers also require an annual service as part of their warranty terms.
Our price for a gas boiler or gas fire service is on the prices page.
How long does a new boiler installation take?
In many cases we can recommend and install a new boiler in as little as 48 hours, depending on the type you choose. It may occasionally take up to three days if more work is needed, for example converting from a system boiler to a combi.
What does your guarantee cover, and for how long?
Our work carries a guarantee valid for 12 months from the date the work was completed, against faulty workmanship. Your invoice is your reference for your guarantee.
Boilers also carry the manufacturer’s warranty, which ranges from 1–5 years depending on the make.
What customers say
Very impressed with service from start to finish
“Boiler exchange for £1495.00 – very impressed with service from start to finish. completed in one day as promised and with 7 year warranty – too many cups of tea though – thanks Danny”
These guys are very professional
“I had Danny install a Vaillent boiler for my home and was very pleased on the workmanship of the installation. He was very thorough… finished clean and tidy and on time”
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