How Much is a New Boiler Cost?

Purchasing a new boiler is an exciting experience that requires an intensive financial commitment. If you’re thinking of purchasing a new boiler, you need to understand the costs of buying the new boiler and installing it.

Taking time to research the costs will help you better prepare yourself and determine whether you need financing for your new boiler.

Determining the cost of a new boiler requires a careful understanding of the type of boiler your home needs. That is why you need to consider the various factors that will affect the cost of the new boiler.

Residential Boiler Costs

Because the boiler is for your home, it is classified as a residential boiler. These types of boilers cost less compared to commercial options. However, they still carry a significant price tag. They range from between £1,000 to £2,000. The exact price depends on a variety of factors, as you’re going to see among them is the size of the boiler.

You need to ensure you choose the right size of boiler for your home. It shouldn’t be too big or too small. You want to get the most value for your money and optimise the use of the boiler. Taking time to find a boiler with the right output rating guarantees this balance.

Boiler Costs by Fuel Type

The first factor that affects the cost of your boiler is its fuel type. When choosing the fuel type of the boiler, you need to consider the running costs as well. Although some types of fuels might cost less initially, they might cost you more to run and vice versa.

The table below indicates average boiler prices and installation costs for boilers using different types of fuel:

Fuel Type	Cost of Unit & Installation (in £)
Oil	3,800 – 4,800
Propane or Gas	2,600 – 7,200
Electric	1,090 – 4,800
Wood	5,000 – 25,000

Oil boiler costs

Oil boilers cost anywhere between £1,000 to over £3,000 for the boiler alone. Initially, running an oil boiler was economical, but the cost of oil has drastically increased in the recent past, making the running costs effective. Still, oil boilers are an excellent option, where gas and electricity-powered boilers are not an option.

Propane and gas boiler costs

Gas boilers are the most popular option in the market. It will set you back between £500 to over £2,500 for the boiler alone. Because gas boilers are common, parts and services are more affordable.  If you want the boiler to run on propane, you might need a conversion kit if you have a natural gas boiler. Although propane is more costly, it’s twice as efficient and convenient in remote locations and off-grid living.

Electric boiler costs

Electric boilers can cost as little as £1,500 and up to £4,500, depending on the size and type of boiler. Electric boilers are best known for their efficiency, converting almost all the electricity into heat. But they’re slow compared to some of the types of boilers. They are also space-saving because they don’t need a flue, making them perfect for homes with limited space.

Outdoor wood boiler costs

Outdoor biomass boilers are the most expensive to buy and install. The cost of buying the boiler alone starts at £4,000 and goes up to £21,000. Including installation, the price can reach £25,000 or more. Although costlier compared to other fuel types, biomass boilers make excellent off-grid systems.

Boiler Prices By Type

Besides the type of fuel the boiler uses, the type of boiler also has a significant impact on the cost of the boiler. Choosing the type of boiler ideal for your home is one of the critical decisions you will make when purchasing a new boiler. It’s important to note that this decision will impact not only the comfort of your home but also your budget.

Combi boiler prices

Combi or combination boilers are the most convenient type of boilers because they control both the heating and hot water, delivering both on-demand. Also, combi boilers don’t require a hot water cylinder which means you save when buying the boiler and on the installation fees. Unfortunately, the lack of a hot water tank limits this type of boiler to homes with low demand for hot water.

A combi boiler costs between £600 to £2,200 depending on the brand and the power rating of the boiler.

System boiler cost

System or regular boilers cost between £1,600 to £2,900. Unlike combi boilers, a system boiler requires a separate hot water tank, which is typically installed in the loft, and a water cylinder that can be installed in an airing cupboard. The installation cost of a system boiler is typically higher because of the additional tanks. Still, it comes with the benefit of unlimited amounts of hot water for the entire residence.

Conventional boiler cost

Conventional boilers are the most basic type of boilers in the market. Most homes are moving away from them, but they are still available. This type of boiler is capable of delivering unlimited amounts of hot water. Like the system boiler, it needs a separate water tank that will reflect on the cost of the boilers and their installation. A conventional boiler costs between £400 and £1,500 depending on the brand and the power rating of the boiler.

Boiler Costs by Brand

Another factor that will determine how much you pay for the new boiler is the brand and range of the boilers. Different brands use different technologies and have longer warranties than others. Therefore you can expect the prices to vary depending on the make and model of the boiler.

Worcester Bosch boilers

Worcester Bosch is one of the leading boiler brands in the UK. This range of boilers will cost anywhere between £1,800 to £3,600 depending on the range of boilers. Worcester Bosch boilers are considered among the best and the most durable in the market, having received the Which? Best Buy Award for six consecutive years.

Worcester also has one of the most versatile ranges of boilers in the market. Its range of boilers fits all properties, including options that fit neatly in the cupboard.

Worcester Bosch – The Greenstar range

Expect to pay between £1,850 to £2,900 for boilers in the Greenstar range. The Greenstar range features the ‘i’ and ‘CDi’ models.

The ‘i’ model is the most popular feature in over a million homes in the UK. It’s a simple and easy-to-install boiler featuring smart heating controls that are easy to use and user-friendly.

The ‘CDi’ models are similar to the ‘i’ model. But this is a top-performing combi gas boiler in the Greenstar range. It has the highest water flow among wall-mounted boilers. The ‘CDi’ models will cost you between £1418 to £2400.

Worcester Bosch boilers are easy to troubleshoot. Most of the common problems Worcester boilers run into are easy to diagnose and fix, which is an additional benefit.

Baxi boilers

The Baxi brand has been around since 1866. Having been around for so long, you can rest assured they’ve picked up many lessons over the years and used them to improve their boilers. That’s why the brand remains one of the top runners in the UK boiler market despite being around for over 150 years.

Baxi has developed various types of boilers to suit different homes and different needs. The price of these boilers starts at £1,725 – £2,500.

The most popular model in the Baxi range is the Baxi Platinum combi boiler. It packs numerous perks, including a 10-year warranty and a Band A efficiency rating while maintaining a terrific hot water flow rate. These amazing features are the reason why the Baxi Platinum range is also received a Which? Best Buy Award.

 Vokera boilers

Vokera has a line of system and combi boilers, with leading models in each category. Most of Vokera’s combi boilers are compact builds that will fit into the kitchen cupboard and are ideal for a small flat.

On average, expect to pay between £1,650 – £2,200 for Vokera boilers. Vokera boilers don’t have the longest warranty, but that doesn’t mean they’re not good. When installed by a qualified boiler installer, you shouldn’t have any problems with the boiler for the first 10 years of use. The greatest thing about Vokera boilers is that they are simple and cater to those on a budget.

Even the price of the Vokera Excell, which is one of the top models, is hard to beat even on installation cost. The boiler is A-rated inefficiency, so it conservatives energy, allowing you to save money in the long term as well. It also helps that the most common Vokera boiler problems are easy to fix, which keeps the running costs of the boiler at a minimum.

Ideal boilers

Ideal boilers cost between £1,700 to £2,600. Ideal has been around for a long time and is well known for its quality combi boilers. Its brightest stars are the Logic+ range which is considered among the best and most popular models in UK’s central heating market today.

Being a popular boiler, the most common Ideal boiler problems are well-known, making repairs and servicing easier and more affordable.

Ideal offers a long warranty of up to seven years on its products, particularly the Logic+ range. The brand has also won numerous awards in the central heating space, among them the ‘Product of the Year,’ and comes highly recommended by most leading installers.

Other common boiler brands in the UK include ATAG, Ferroli, Alpha and Viessmann, among others. Each brand has slight changes in its prices depending on the model of the boiler and its technology.

Water or Steam Boilers

Both steam and water boilers use gas, oil, electricity, or biomass for power. Although hot water is the source of heat, how they create the heat is a little different.

Steam boilers work by heating the water to a boiling point to create steam. The steam travels through a network of pipes to the radiators in your home.

On the other hand, hot water boilers heat water until it’s hot enough, then push the hot water through pipes to the radiators for heat.

Both types of boilers have exceptional energy efficiency ratings. But, steam boilers use more energy because they have to boil the water. However, steam boilers use less energy during heat transfer. Hot water boilers are the opposite. They use less energy when heating but more energy during heat transfer.

If efficiency is the top of your priorities, hot water boilers are more efficient because they are fitted with circulation pumps that ease the heat transfer process.

The cost of either type of boiler will differ depending on the technology used to make the boiler. However, you should be advised that in this case, it’s not just about the cost. Homes in colder regions could benefit from a steam boiler because it warms up the house faster and more effectively.

Energy Efficiency

When shopping for boilers, you will notice that the energy efficiency of the boiler is directly proportional to the cost of the boiler. Boilers with a higher energy efficiency have a higher price tag.

Initially, you might be attracted to boilers with a lower rating, but, in the long run, such boilers will cost more to run. Boilers with a 90% or higher energy efficiency rating reduce heating costs by up to 30%.

Each of these factors plays a critical role in the price of the boiler you select. But, the price of the new boiler is not the only one you need to consider when buying a new boiler. There are other costs involved. These include:

Boiler Installation Costs

Just like the price of a new boiler, the installation costs also vary depending on a myriad of factors. On average, the prices vary from £1,400 to £2,800. The final price you pay for the new boiler installation will depend on several factors, including:

• If it is a new installation or replacement
• The type of boiler
• The size of the boiler
• Your location
• The location of the boiler
• If there are any upgrades, modifications, or conversions

New Boiler Installation

If you’re installing a boiler for the first time in your home, it will cost you more. That’s because the new installation will require pipework and flue installation as well. The final cost will depend on several factors, including

The type of boiler

Each boiler has different installation requirements, which means the installation cost also varies. Here are some installation cost scenarios:

• Heat-only boiler – Heat-only boilers are among the simplest to install. They don’t distribute heat around the house. They only provide hot water. New heat-only boiler installations are the most affordable. But they don’t provide heating to the rest of the house.
• Combi boiler – Although combi boilers don’t have a cylinder, they provide heating and hot water. The lack of a cylinder will save you some money because it reduces the installation work required. However, the cost is still significant because of the pipework required for the heating.
• System boiler – System boilers provide heating to the entire house and unlimited amounts of hot water. A system boiler requires a hot water tank to be installed in the loft as well. The installation of the tank means the cost will be higher.

Fuel type

Homeowners have different preferences on the type of fuel source for their boilers. But, when choosing the type of power source for your boiler, you should also consider how it will affect the installation cost.

Oil boilers are more costly to install because they also need an external tank that holds the fuel. Propane tanks require a gas line to be installed, while electric boilers are easier to install in areas with a robust electricity network.

Some sources of power like gas and oil require the boiler to have a flue system that removes hazardous gases like carbon monoxide out of the house. The installation of the flue system will also affect the cost of installation.

Boiler size

The size of the boiler has a lot to do with the installation cost. Ideally, large boilers are more energy-efficient and cost-effective and ensure adequate heating for big homes. But the larger the boiler is, the higher the installation cost.  When settling on the size of the boiler that is ideal for your home, don’t pick a boiler that is too big for your home. The boiler will not be able to heat the home properly because the safety mechanisms will kick in and turn off the boiler before adequately heating the home.

Boiler Replacement

If you already have an existing boiler, the installation of the new boiler becomes a replacement. The cost of replacing a boiler is lower than that of installing a boiler for the first time. That because all the pipework and installation of radiators and the necessary infrastructure is already done. It is even lower when you’re replacing the same type of boiler in the same location.

If you’re replacing a combi boiler, the installation cost is about £2,000 if the boiler is in the same location. If you would like to change the position of the boiler, the installation cost could start at £2,500.

For the case of regular and system boilers replacement, the cost also depends on whether you’re changing the hot water tank as well. As you can expect, it will cost less to install the new boiler if the tank remains intact. If the tank also needs changing, it will reflect on the final invoice.

If you have a back boiler, you should know that a back boiler replacement is impossible. If the old boiler has to go, you can only replace it with a different type of boiler, which will attract a higher installation cost because the new boiler will require some modifications and a change of location.

The replacement could cost you between £2,500 and £3,500 depending on the type of boiler you buy and whether you retain the water tank.

Other factors that will affect the final replacement cost of the new boiler include:

• Boiler type change

It is more cost-friendly to change one type of boiler for a new similar type. If you have to change the type of boiler, it means some modifications like adjusting the location of the flue and some of the pipework.

Replacing a regular boiler and the tank with a combi boiler will cost over £3,000 while replacing a combi boiler with a system boiler completed with an unvented hot water tank will cost upwards of £5,000.

• Upgrades modifications or

Some boiler replacements might require upgrades or modifications to the current infrastructure to accommodate the new boiler. This is often the case if you’re bringing in a different type of boiler. Such upgrades or modifications might require additional equipment, materials and hours of labour, meaning the cost will increase.

Other Factors That Can Affect Boiler Installation Costs

Boiler installation costs vary wildly. That’s because there are numerous factors to be considered during the installation. Besides those mentioned above, other factors could affect how much you pay for your boiler installation.

• Permits – Most residential boiler installations don’t require a permit if all of the work is internal. However, there are requirements if there is external work or if the flue exceeds 1m above the highest point of your home. It’s highly recommended to consult with the local authority on whether you need a permit before starting the installation work. If you need a permit, that will add to the installation cost of the boiler.
• Asbestos removal – If the boiler being replaced has been around for several years, there’s a fair chance you might come across asbestos during the installation. Because of the hazardous nature of asbestos, the material needs to be removed immediately and disposed of according to the hazardous materials guidelines. The contractor could remove the asbestos for you if they have the experience and equipment, or you might need to call in a separate company that specialises in asbestos removal. Regardless of the direction you take, removing the asbestos will cost you extra.
• Type of flue – The flue is a crucial part of the boiler. The type of flue you install is partly determined by its location on the boiler and the shape of the building. The flue can be horizontal or vertical. Depending on the placement of the boiler and the type of flue, the installation could increase or decrease.
• Season – During the winter season, calls for boiler repairs, installations and service increase. Boiler installation companies have to brave the weather and are often stretched thin. That makes it more costly to install the boiler during the winter season. It is more affordable to have the boiler installed over the summer.
• Location – Your location could also impact how much you pay for the boiler installation. Some areas have more accommodative labour laws and rates which allow installers to charge less, while others are more restrictive with a higher minimum wage which means you will pay more for the same service.
• Boiler installation company – Finally, the boiler installation company you select for the installation has a lot to do with the boiler installation cost. Some installers charge more than others. Before settling on an installer, try and do thorough market research to ensure you select a competent but affordable boiler installation company.

Should You Install a New Boiler?

In light of the cost of installing a new boiler, it appears that buying a new boiler is something that you should carefully consider because of the financial commitment. While there’s no doubt you need to plan carefully and budget, buying a new boiler has numerous benefits, most of which have long-term benefits that could save you money for years to come. These benefits include:

• Energy efficiency – Boiler technology has come a long way. Modern boilers have the best efficiency in the market. A new boiler will work efficiently to produce the right amount of energy and delivered it to the right locations when required. The boiler minimises energy wastage by sourcing power more easily. Once the boiler is up and running, you should notice a decrease in your energy bill.
• Cost-saving – It’s not just your energy bill that is going to look leaner after installing a new boiler. You will also save money on repairs and part replacement. A new boiler will take a decent amount of time before you need to replace any parts or repairs. However, you should keep up with the manufacturer-recommended service and maintenance. Although most repair costs are minimal, they quickly add up to a substantial amount.
• A better lifestyle – A new boiler provides better heating for your home, which means better comfort and relaxation. Compared to older versions, a new boiler is less noisy and better adapts to your lifestyle. The boiler is also smaller, and there are multiple options you can choose from depending on the availability of space.
• Better safety and reliability – Modern boilers require minimal maintenance, and they have a multitude of safety features that ensure your family is safe as the boiler works to keep the home warm. Modern boilers are built with safety and reliability in mind, more so when installed properly. The boilers eliminate risks associated with old boilers like fire hazards and carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Adds value to the property – Investing in a new boiler is a clever and effective way to add value to your home, especially if you want to sell the home. Among the features, buyers consider when buying a new home are cheaper bills, safety, luxury and peace of mind. A new boiler checks on all these boxes and guarantees the buyer they don’t need to invest in a new boiler before moving in. A new boiler is one of the most profitable home improvements you can make to your home.

Although a new boiler requires adequate financial preparations, it comes with profound benefits that will save you money in the long run, making it a worthy investment at the right time.

How to Save Money When Buying a New Boiler

Preparation and research are key when purchasing a new boiler. It can save you from the pitfalls that most homeowners find themselves in by paying too much for the boiler or the installation service. Here are a few tips that can help you save money when purchasing a new boiler.

• Find the right boiler for your home – There is more to buying a new boiler than going out and picking the first boiler you see. When buying a boiler, make sure you buy one that serves the purpose and is the right size for your home. Don’t be pressured into buying a big boiler you can’t use at full potential. Understand which size of boiler works best for you.
• Find the right installer – Just like the boiler, you should also work to find the right installer. Compare the Boiler Market can help you with that. We can connect you with local boiler installers in your location, which will send you quotations for the boiler installation. This will help you pick the most competitive quote and potentially save you thousands of pounds.
• Consider financing – You don’t have to deplete your finances trying to buy a new boiler. Dealers offer numerous finance options that you can leverage to get your new boiler and pay for it in small and manageable instalments.
• Consider repairing the boiler – In some cases, it makes more sense to repair your current boiler than replace it. The easiest formula to tell whether you should repair or replace the boiler is to multiply the cost of repairs by the number of years you’ve owned the boiler. If the total cost exceeds the price of a new install or is very close, it’s best to invest in a new boiler. If the repairs are far cheaper than a new install, going for the repair, especially if the boiler isn’t more than 10 years old, makes more sense.

What Boiler Finance Options Are Available?

Paying for your boiler in one lump sum is a huge undertaking. There are boiler finance options available that lessen the burden of cost and make it possible for you to enjoy the new boiler as you make monthly payments for the boiler.

• Buy now, pay later – The buy now and pay later option is one of the more common financing options offered by the dealer. Under this arrangement, you only need to pay a 10% deposit on the boiler and pay the rest in 12 months. Some dealers can extend the repayment period for clients who prefer a longer period, but this often attracts additional interest.
• Monthly repayments – The monthly repayments option is very similar to the buy now, pay later scheme. You pay the same 10% deposit for the boiler, but the balance is spread out over a period of 5 – 10 years. Also, under this plan, you can’t make additional repayments at any time. The smaller instalments are more manageable and make a new boiler a possibility for many homeowners.

New Boiler Cost FAQ

How long should a new boiler last?

A: A new boiler has a life expectancy of 10 to 15 years. Once your purchase the boiler, you should expect it to serve at high efficiency for up to 10 years, after which the efficiency rating will start to decline. If properly maintained, the boiler can remain functional for a couple of more years.

When should you replace your boiler?

A: It’s recommended to replace your boiler every 15 years. You should also consider replacing old boilers with low efficiency to reduce your utility bills and carbon emissions.

Can I call a plumber to install a boiler?

A: There are areas where a plumber can install a boiler. But we recommend having the boiler installed by a trained and certified technician to guarantee the efficiency of the boiler and the safety of the family. Some boiler warranties also require that the boiler is installed by a qualified heating expert to uphold the warranty.

How do I get a boiler installation quotation from installers in my area?

A: It’s very easy to get a free installation quote for your new boiler at Compare the Boiler Market. All you have to do is share a short job description about the installation, and we will provide you with a list of qualified installation experts from your area. The installer will each send you a free and no-obligation quote that you can use to find the best installer.

Is there anything I should do as I wait for the new boiler?

A: Once you have a boiler installer, there’s not much you can do. But if you want to make the process easier for the installer, you can clear the work area and if you won’t be around, ensure you indicate where the fuse box, water and gas mains control valves are.

How long does it take to install a new boiler?

A: It depends on several factors like the type of boiler being installed and the accessibility of the location. All factors constant, most installers should have the boiler up and running in three days maximum.

How long does it take to replace a boiler?

A: If the boiler is being replaced, it should take a shorter period. A standard boiler replacement where the same type of boilers are swapped should take no more than a day. However, if there’s conversion work, upgrades, or relocations, it might take a longer time.