Installing a domestic or commercial gas boiler

Domestic home or commercial boiler replacement is a significant undertaking. Some people choose to replace their boilers to conserve energy. Many older boilers were created before anyone worried about their energy efficiency, and a modern homeowner could save a lot of money by switching to a more recent model. Others have to replace their boilers simply because the older boiler has worn out and needs to be replaced. There are some warning signs to look for if you think your boiler is about to die. Being aware that you will need to replace your boiler soon can save you from unexpected costs and the sense of emergency if it goes out before you are ready.

When Should the Boiler be Replaced?

If your boiler is over 20 years old, it is a good idea to just replace it outright. There have been significant changes in the efficiency and cost effectiveness of boilers over the last 20 years, and the cost of replacing your old boiler will be offset by the savings of using the new one fairly quickly. Oil boilers are especially prone to wearing out after about 20 years. Gas boilers tend to last a little longer, but you should begin to think about replacement options when they reach the 20 year mark.

Boiler replacement costs

The costs of boiler replacement vary depending on the type of new boiler you purchase, and the difficulty of removing the old boiler. Most plumbers and heating specialists charge for the parts they will use and the time they spend on the project. A good, new gas operated boiler can cost anywhere from £800 - £1,500 depending on the type you purchase. This initial equipment cost doesn't cover the cost of installation or certification.

Do it Yourself or Hire a Professional?

Don't even think about installing a gas boiler yourself unless you are a qualified Gas Safe engineer. There are dangers inherent with gas that a professional has been trained to handle so that everyone is safe. Time and time again we get calls into our office asking whether we can get one of our Gas Safe engineers to certify a new boiler installation. Only the person who installed the boiler should be issuing a certificate for it. We will never certify a central heating installation that we haven't installed. And you won't find any reputable Gas central heating & plumbing company in London who will.

The extra cost of a professional is well worth the safety that comes along with the qualifications that the professional carries. Heating specialists should display their qualifications prominently on their websites or in their paperwork, and you can request their credentials before you hire them.

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