James Elston
Published May 15, 2024
Are you tired of getting high energy bills despite inconsistent heating? Or maybe your old boiler is on its last legs. A new, energy-efficient boiler can solve these problems and more, providing consistent warmth while slashing your energy costs.
Therefore, it’s vital to choose the right boiler size for your home or business. An incorrectly sized or poorly installed boiler can lead to heating inefficiency, higher bills, and even safety risks. That’s why you need certified professionals who understand your specific needs.
We, at Eco Happy, are the experts in boiler installation in Liversedge. Our certified installers know how to get the job done safely and efficiently. We’ll guide you through choosing a new boiler that fits your property’s size and energy goals, helping you enjoy a warm, worry-free space while keeping your bills low.
What Type Of Boiler Do You Need?
To determine the best boiler for your needs, consider these important factors:
- Property size: Smaller boilers are sufficient for one-bedroom flats, but larger homes or commercial buildings usually require system boilers.
- Existing heating system: If you need a boiler replacement, switching to a combi boiler can save space and offer instant hot water.
- Hot water demand: Larger families or businesses may need a conventional boiler or a system, while smaller households can use a combi boiler.
- Energy efficiency goals: Look for boilers with high-efficiency ratings or invest in renewable energy solutions like solar panels.
- Budget: Efficient boilers may have a higher upfront cost but will save you money in the long run.
Conventional boiler
Conventional boilers consist of a boiler unit, hot water cylinder, and cold water tank to provide central heating and on-demand hot water supply.
They can be fueled by natural gas, oil, LPG (liquid petroleum gas) or, in some cases wood pellets. These traditional setups work well in most property types and sizes, making them a versatile choice. Their ability to handle high hot water demands from multiple taps simultaneously is a key benefit.
However, conventional boilers are less energy efficient than modern condensing combi boilers. By law, they must have an efficiency rating of 90% or higher – something only top models usually reach. Additionally, as part of the UK’s fossil fuel phase-out, conventional boiler installations will be prohibited in new-build homes from 2025.
Combi boiler
Combi (or combination) boilers heat water on demand, directly from the mains supply, rather than using a hot water cylinder. This space-saving design makes combis ideal for small homes and apartments with 1-2 bathrooms. Combis eliminate the need for a cold water tank as well. These compact units can be easily installed in a kitchen cupboard.
However, their hot water output is limited compared to conventional boilers. Combis may struggle to supply enough hot water for multiple showers or taps running simultaneously. For this reason, many larger homes opt for a regular or system boiler instead.
But for smaller properties wanting an efficient, affordable, and space-saving option, a quality combi boiler could be the perfect choice.
Electric boiler
An electric boiler can be an excellent, eco-friendly choice, provided your electricity comes from renewable sources like solar or wind. Using no combustible fuel, electric boilers heat water for central heating and hot water via electrical elements. They’re highly efficient, with top models exceeding 99% efficiency. Electric boilers require no flue-like gas units, allowing compact boiler installation in small spaces.
However, their running costs can be higher than those of gas boilers if on a standard energy plan. They also require upgraded wiring and a larger electrical capacity during installation.
An electric boiler provides sustainable heat for homes and businesses using green electricity without any direct carbon emissions.
System boiler
System boilers are an excellent choice for homes with high hot water demand and multiple bathrooms. They work by heating water that’s stored in a separate hot water cylinder, providing a steady supply of hot water even when multiple taps are used simultaneously.
Unlike conventional boilers, system boilers don’t require a cold water tank, freeing up space in your loft.
They offer higher efficiency than conventional boilers due to their built-in components and fast response to heating demands. However, because they rely on a hot water cylinder, there might be a delay in reheating the water once the stored supply is used up, making them less suitable for properties with limited storage space.
Biomass boiler
Biomass boilers offer an eco-friendly heating solution by burning organic materials like wood pellets, chips, or logs to produce heat. They’re ideal for homes and businesses prioritising sustainability or seeking to reduce their carbon footprint.
Biomass boilers can be more expensive to install due to their size and need for a fuel storage area, making them better suited to properties with ample space.
Despite higher upfront costs, they can be cost-effective in the long run due to low fuel prices. You could also qualify for a government grant, like the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI), to help with costs. With that said, biomass boilers do require more frequent maintenance and a consistent fuel supply, which can pose challenges.
How Much Does It Cost To Install A New Boiler In Liversedge?
The cost of installing a new boiler depends on various factors, including boiler type, system complexity, property size, and labour charges.
Additional costs may include:
- Removing an old central heating system.
- Setting up new piping.
- Installing smart controls.
To help with expenses, homeowners can check their eligibility for government schemes like the ECO (Energy Company Obligation) grant or the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, which can offset the cost.
In the following sections, we’ll provide average estimated costs for new boilers and professional installation across different property types and sizes in Liversedge.
New boiler costs for residential homes
1 bedroom home
| Type of boiler | Cost excluding installation | Cost including installation | Average cost including installation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conventional | £600 – £2,500 | £1,800 – £3,500 | £2,650 |
| Combi | £600 – £2,500 | £1,600 – £3,500 | £2,550 |
| Electric | £550 – £2,500 | £1,450 – £3,500 | £2,475 |
| System | £600 – £2,500 | £1,800 – £3,400 | £2,600 |
| Biomass | £4,000 – £8,000 | £6,000 – £10,000 | £8,000 |
2 bedroom home
| Type of boiler | Cost excluding installation | Cost including installation | Average cost including installation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conventional | £600 – £2,800 | £2,000 – £4,000 | £3,000 |
| Combi | £600 – £2,500 | £1,700 – £4,000 | £2,850 |
| Electric | £600 – £2,600 | £1,600 – £3,900 | £2,750 |
| System | £600 – £3,000 | £1,800 – £4,000 | £2,900 |
| Biomass | £5,000 – £10,000 | £8,000 – £12,000 | £10,000 |
3-4 bedroom home
| Type of boiler | Cost excluding installation | Cost including installation | Average cost including installation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conventional | £1,500 – £3,700 | £2,700 – £4,900 | £3,800 |
| Combi | £1,400 – £3,000 | £2,600 – £4,500 | £3,550 |
| Electric | £1,400 – £3,300 | £2,500 – £4,500 | £3,500 |
| System | £1,500 – £3,700 | £2,600 – £4,700 | £3,650 |
| Biomass | £7,000 – £14,000 | £10,000 – £18,000 | £14,000 |
5+ bedroom home
| Type of boiler | Cost excluding installation | Cost including installation | Average cost including installation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conventional | £1,600 – £4,500 | £2,900 – £5,000+ | £3,950 |
| Combi | £1,500 – £3,500 | £2,600 – £4,500+ | £3,550 |
| Electric | £1,550 – £3,500 | £2,500 – £4,500+ | £3,500 |
| System | £1,600 – £4,300 | £3,000 – £5,000+ | £4,000 |
| Biomass | £8,000 – £15,000 | £10,000 – £20,000+ | £15,000 |
New boiler costs for commercial businesses
Small businesses
| Type of boiler | Cost excluding installation | Cost including installation | Average cost including installation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conventional | £600 – £2,700 | £1,800 – £4,000 | £2,900 |
| Combi | £600 – £2,000 | £1,900 – £3,300 | £2,600 |
| Electric | £550 – £1,750 | £1,900 – £3,000 | £2,450 |
| System | £600 – £2,900 | £600 – £3,500 | £2,050 |
| Biomass | £5,000 – £10,000 | £10,000 – £16,000 | £13,000 |
Medium-sized businesses
| Type of boiler | Cost excluding installation | Cost including installation | Average cost including installation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conventional | £1,200 – £5,000 | £3,200 – £7,000 | £5,100 |
| Combi | £1,000 – £4,000 | £3,000 – £6,000 | £4,500 |
| Electric | £1,200 – £4,000 | £3,200 – £6,500 | £4,850 |
| System | £1,200 – £5,000 | £3,300 – £7,000 | £5,150 |
| Biomass | £6,000 – £12,000 | £11,000 – £20,000 | £15,500 |
Large businesses
Industrial and commercial boilers can range from 20 kW to 2,000 kW of heating capacity. As you scale, the costs for these installations can reach up to £40,000.
| Type of boiler | Cost excluding installation | Cost including installation | Average cost including installation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conventional | £5,000 – £10,000+ | £12,500 – £20,000+ | Varies |
| Combi | Not best suited for large commercial | ||
| Electric | £5,000 – £10,000+ | £12,500 – £20,000+ | Varies |
| System | £5,000 – £10,000+ | £12,500 – £20,000+ | Varies |
| Biomass | £15,000 – £30,000+ | £20,000 – £40,000+ | Varies |
What Size Boiler Do You Need?
Finding the right boiler size ensures that your system provides adequate heating without wasting energy or increasing costs.
The boiler size is influenced by factors such as:
- The number of bathrooms.
- The number of bedrooms.
- Hot water demand.
- The property’s insulation quality.
- The total number of radiators.
Larger homes generally require a higher output, while smaller properties can manage with a compact boiler.
Here, we’ll overview which boiler sizes and types are best suited for different house sizes.
For residential homes
| Bedrooms | Bathrooms | Radiators | Boiler size | Type of boiler |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 | 1-6 | 9 kW – 18 kW (24 kW for combi) | Conventional, combi, electric, system |
| 2 | 1 | 5-10 | 18 kW – 27 kW (30 kW for combi) | Conventional, combi, electric, system |
| 3-4 | 2-3 | 10-16 | 30 kW – 35 kW | Conventional, system, biomass |
| 5+ | 4+ | 15 – 20+ | 35 kW – 45 kW | Conventional, system, biomass |
For commercial businesses
The boiler size requirements for commercial premises can vary significantly depending on the building’s scale and purpose. A small office will need a far less powerful boiler than a large hotel or manufacturing facility.
Below, we outline suggested boiler sizes and types appropriate for various sizes of commercial businesses.
| Size | Hot water points | Radiators | Boiler size | Type of boiler |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small | 1 | 1-9 | 12 kW – 24 kW (30 kW for combi) | Conventional, combi, electric, system |
| Medium | 3+ | 10-20 | 35 kW – 45 kW | Conventional, system, biomass |
| Large | Multiple | 20+ | 55 kW – 100+ kW | Conventional, system, biomass |
What Are The Best Boiler Brands?
We’ve combed through surveys, consumer reviews, and insights from industry experts and engineers to identify the top five boiler brands in the UK:
- Ideal: Ideal provides affordable, durable heating solutions, backed by impressive warranties. They’re praised for their excellent service and their wide range of boilers, suitable for various property sizes. (Trustpilot rating: 4.8/5)
- Worcester Bosch: Renowned for reliability and performance, this company consistently ranks high among consumers for energy-efficient boilers with cutting-edge technology. Their long warranties and extensive service network make them a go-to choice. (Trustpilot rating: 4.6/5)
- Baxi: Known for robust, long-lasting boilers, Baxi focuses on user-friendly designs and responsive customer support. Their range includes models tailored to different heating demands, ensuring reliability in any setting. (Trustpilot rating: 4.6/5)
- Vaillant: This German brand is praised for its innovation and energy efficiency, offering boilers with smart technology for enhanced control. Their eco-friendly ethos and modern designs make them ideal for households focused on sustainability. (Trustpilot rating: 4.4/5)
- Viessmann: With high efficiency and excellent build quality, Viessmann boilers are gaining recognition for their advanced engineering. They’re highly efficient and offer many different models, making them adaptable to diverse household needs. (Trustpilot rating: 4.2/5)
When Should You Install A New Boiler?
Regular boiler servicing can extend your system’s lifespan, but no boiler lasts forever. At some point, repairs become costlier than replacing an ageing unit.
Here are some signs that indicate it’s time to install a new boiler:
- Your energy bills keep rising with no explanation.
- The boiler frequently needs repairs, costing over £150 annually.
- Water takes forever to heat up or heating is inadequate.
- Strange noises like banging, whistling, or whirring come from the boiler.
- The pilot light burns yellow/orange instead of crisp blue.
- You notice leaks, moisture buildup, or rust around the boiler.
- Your 12-15 year old boiler reaches an efficiency rating below 65%.
Ignoring these red flags leads to further deterioration and potentially hazardous incidents. A new, highly efficient boiler provides economical, reliable heating for years to come.
When is the best time of year to install a new boiler?
The best time to install a new boiler is during the summer or late spring/early autumn. This ensures you have a new central heating system before winter arrives, and installers have more availability compared to peak heating seasons.
Why Choose Eco Happy?
With decades of combined experience, Eco Happy’s team of heating engineers are true experts in their field. We’ve installed and serviced thousands of boilers across the UK for homes and businesses of all sizes.
When it comes to boiler servicing and boiler installation in Liversedge, we excel at guiding customers through every step of the process.
Gas Safe registered engineers
All Eco Happy engineers who work on gas boiler installations are fully qualified and Gas Safe registered. This is a legal requirement, as improper gas work can be extremely dangerous, causing fire, explosion, and carbon monoxide poisoning risks.
Fast response times
We understand that a failed heating system is an emergency, especially in winter. That’s why Eco Happy’s team prides itself on quick response times. No matter the issue, we can have a Gas Safe registered engineer dispatched quickly to diagnose the problem and provide a solution – whether that’s a repair or full boiler replacement and installation.
Professional and reliable
From your initial consultation through to the final installation, Eco Happy provides professional and reliable service every step of the way. Our knowledgeable team will guide you towards the perfect high-efficiency boiler for your home or business needs. We’re here to answer any questions and ensure the installation goes smoothly.
Great customer service
At Eco Happy, customer satisfaction is our top priority. You can reach our friendly support staff at designated hours by phone, email, online chat, or social media. We provide up-front pricing, and flexible scheduling, and are happy to fully explain all your options so you can make a confident decision.
Installation of all boiler types
Our expert engineers are equipped to install any type of boiler – gas, oil, LPG, electric, or biomass. So, whether you need a compact combi unit for a city flat or an industrial-sized system boiler, Eco Happy has the skills to handle your project with expertise.
Get Your New Boiler Installation Quote Today
Ready to experience superior home or business heating and lower energy bills? Get started today by requesting a free, no-obligation quote from the boiler installation experts at Eco Happy. Simply complete our quick online form and we’ll follow up to discuss your needs and provide an upfront estimate.
FAQs
How much does it cost to get a boiler fitted?
The average cost to have a boiler installed in the UK ranges from £1,000 to £3,000 for a standard gas combi or system boiler. For larger properties or commercial buildings, boiler installation can exceed £5,000 due to increased complexity and boiler size requirements.
Why are boilers so expensive to install?
Boiler installation costs cover the unit itself, any remedial work like upgrading pipework and wiring, labour from qualified engineers, warranties, disposal fees, and safety checks. Quality boilers use premium materials and feature advanced components, contributing to higher pricing.
How long does it take to install a new boiler?
For an average home, fitting a new boiler typically takes 1-3 days for experienced plumbers or heating engineers. More complex jobs in larger properties may require 3-5 days or longer. Proper installation takes time to ensure safety and efficiency.
James Elston
Boiler Expert
James Elston is the top boiler replacement and heating expert at Eco Happy. He has over 20 years of experience in the industry, focusing on Gas Safe boiler installations and offering home-heating and energy-saving solutions to homeowners across the UK. From sourcing the most energy-efficient combi boiler to providing specialist heating advice, James ensures that Eco Happy maintains the highest standards and best customer service.