BOILER INSTALLATION

 

Do you need new Boiler installed? What kind of boiler do you need?

The main difference between a System Boiler and a Combi Boiler lies in how they provide heating and hot water. Here's a breakdown:

1. Combi Boiler (Combination Boiler)

  • Compact design: Combines both a water heater and a central heating boiler in one unit.
  • Instant hot water: It heats water directly from the mains as you use it, so you don’t need a hot water storage tank or a cylinder.
  • No need for a cold water tank: Since it doesn’t store hot water, there's no need for a loft tank (which is common with other heating systems).
  • Space-saving: Due to its compact nature, it's ideal for homes with limited space.
  • Efficiency: Typically more energy-efficient since it heats water only when needed, reducing energy waste.
  • Best for smaller homes: Especially effective for homes with one or two bathrooms, as the hot water flow can be limited when multiple outlets are used simultaneously.

2. System Boiler

  • Separate hot water tank: A system boiler works with a hot water cylinder (usually stored in an airing cupboard), meaning it stores hot water for later use.
  • No need for a cold water tank: Similar to a Combi, a System Boiler doesn’t need a cold water tank in the loft, but it does require a hot water cylinder.
  • Good for larger homes: Because it can provide more hot water, it’s ideal for homes with multiple bathrooms, as you can run several taps/showers at once without running out of hot water.
  • Better flow rate: System boilers often provide a higher flow rate of hot water compared to combi boilers, making them suitable for homes with high water demands.
  • Higher installation complexity: The need for a hot water cylinder and extra pipework can make installation more complex compared to a Combi boiler.

Key Differences:

Feature Combi Boiler System Boiler
Hot water source On-demand, from mains water Stored in a hot water cylinder
Hot water storage None (instantaneous) Requires a cylinder
Space requirements Compact, no extra tanks Requires space for the cylinder
Suitability Small to medium homes (1-2 bathrooms) Larger homes with higher demand for hot water (2+ bathrooms)
Flow rate Can be limited with multiple taps Higher flow rate for multiple taps
Efficiency High efficiency, no standby losses Also efficient, but some heat loss in the cylinder

 

In summary, Combi Boilers are great for smaller homes or those with lower hot water demands, while System Boilers are better suited for larger homes with higher demands for hot water.

How much will it cost? 

The cost of a combi-to-combi boiler swap installation can vary depending on factors like the brand, the complexity of the installation, the location and whether any additional work is required (e.g., updating pipes, flues, or adding a filter or a new expansion vessel). However, on average, here's what you can expect:

Average Cost Breakdown:

  1. Boiler Cost:

    • The price of a combi boiler can range from £600 to £2,500, depending on the brand, model, and features.
    • Popular, reliable brands (e.g., Worcester Bosch, Vaillant, Ideal) tend to fall within the £900 to £2,000 range.

  2. Installation Cost:

    • The installation itself (Labor Charge) generally costs between £500 to £1,200.
    • The cost may go up if additional work is required (such as relocating the boiler, upgrading the gas pipe, or fitting a new flue).

  3. Total Cost:

    • For a straightforward combi-to-combi swap, the total cost typically ranges from £1,500 to £3,500. This price includes both the new boiler and installation.
    • For high-end models or more complex installations (e.g., if your existing system requires modifications), the cost could go up to £4,000 or more.

Factors that can affect the price:

  • Boiler Model: Higher-end models, including those with extended warranties or advanced features, cost more.
  • Location: Costs can vary by region, with prices in London and the South East typically being higher.
  • Installation Complexity: If your existing plumbing, gas pipework, or flue requires upgrades or adjustments, this will increase the price.
  • Additional Work: Adding extras like a magnetic filter, expansion vessel, smart controls, or a powerflush can add to the cost.

Example Cost Breakdown:

  • Low-End Combi Boiler (Budget model): £600 (boiler) + £600 (installation) = £1,200 
  • Mid-Range Combi Boiler: £1,200 (boiler) + £900 (installation) = £2,100
  • High-End Combi Boiler: £2,000 (boiler) + £1,200 (installation) = £3,200

Please note: The prices above are Cost Breakdown AVERAGE examples from across the industry.

 

Recommendations.

We recommend Ideal Heating, Worcester Bosch and Vaillant Boilers. From our experience in the industry we think these are the most reliable manufacturers and the most up to date with technology.

 

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