Thinking about replacing your old boiler? You’re not alone thousands of UK homeowners upgrade their heating systems each year to improve energy efficiency and lower bills. But how much does a new boiler cost in the UK? On average, a new boiler costs between £1,500 and £5,500, including installation. A combi boiler typically ranges from £1,500 to £4,500, while a system or conventional boiler can cost up to £5,500. According to the Energy Saving Trust, upgrading to an A-rated boiler can save households up to £340 per year on energy bills.
Before making a purchase, consider your home’s size, heating requirements, and available grants. Compare quotes from trusted suppliers and explore financing options if needed. Investing in a new boiler may seem expensive upfront, but it can significantly reduce energy costs and improve home comfort in the long run. Ready to find the best boiler for your home? Let’s explore your options!
Understanding Boiler Prices in the UK
The cost of a new boiler in the UK can range from £500 to over £4,000, depending on the type and brand. However, the total cost including installation can be £1,500 to £5,000 or more. Here’s an overview of the average costs based on boiler type:
| Boiler Type | Price Range (Boiler Only) | Price with Installation |
|---|---|---|
| Combi Boiler | £500 – £2,500 | £1,500 – £4,500 |
| System Boiler | £800 – £3,000 | £2,000 – £5,000 |
| Conventional Boiler | £700 – £3,500 | £2,000 – £5,500 |
These costs are just estimates and can vary depending on various factors. Let’s take a closer look at the different types of boilers and their costs.
Types of Boilers and Their Costs
1. Combi Boilers (Combination Boilers)
Combi boilers are one of the most popular choices in UK households. They provide hot water on demand without requiring a separate water tank, making them ideal for small to medium-sized homes.
- Boiler cost: £500 – £2,500
- Installation cost: £1,500 – £4,500
- Total cost: £1,500 – £4,500
Pros:
Space-saving (no need for a separate tank)
Energy-efficient and cost-effective
Provides unlimited hot water
Cons:
Not suitable for large homes with high water demand
Water pressure can drop when multiple taps are used simultaneously
2. System Boilers
System boilers require a hot water cylinder but no cold-water tank, making them more efficient than conventional boilers while still offering a large supply of hot water.
- Boiler cost: £800 – £3,000
- Installation cost: £2,000 – £5,000
- Total cost: £2,000 – £5,000
Pros:
Ideal for homes with multiple bathrooms
Consistent water pressure
More energy-efficient than conventional boilers
Cons:
Requires space for a hot water cylinder
Can take time to reheat water
3. Conventional Boilers (Regular Boilers)
Conventional boilers, also known as regular or heat-only boilers, are best suited for older homes with existing radiator systems and large hot water demands. They require both a hot water cylinder and a cold-water storage tank.
- Boiler cost: £700 – £3,500
- Installation cost: £2,000 – £5,500
- Total cost: £2,000 – £5,500
Pros:
Suitable for large homes with high hot water demand
Works well with older central heating systems
Can provide hot water to multiple taps at once
Cons:
Requires more space for water tanks
Less energy-efficient compared to combi and system boilers
Factors Affecting the Cost of a New Boiler UK
Several factors influence the cost of a new boiler, including:
1. Brand and Model
Different boiler brands come at different price points. Some of the most popular brands in the UK include:
- Worcester Bosch (£800 – £3,500)
- Vaillant (£750 – £3,200)
- Ideal (£600 – £2,500)
- Baxi (£500 – £2,200)
- Viessmann (£800 – £3,000)
Premium brands like Worcester Bosch and Vaillant tend to be more expensive but offer better reliability and warranties.
2. Installation Complexity
The installation cost depends on whether you are replacing an old boiler with the same type or switching to a new type.
- Like-for-like replacement: £500 – £1,500 installation cost
- Changing to a different type: £2,000 – £4,000 installation cost
- Moving boiler location: £400 – £1,000 extra cost
3. Size of the Boiler (kW Output)
The size of the boiler, measured in kilowatts (kW), determines how powerful it is.
| Home Size | Recommended Boiler Size | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 1-2 bedroom flat | 24-27kW | £1,500 – £2,500 |
| 3-4 bedroom house | 28-34kW | £2,000 – £3,500 |
| 5+ bedroom house | 35-42kW | £3,000 – £5,000 |
Larger homes with multiple bathrooms require higher kW boilers, which increase costs.
Additional Costs to Consider
When purchasing a new boiler, there are additional expenses you may need to account for:
1. Flue and Pipework (£100 – £500)
If your flue or pipework needs replacing, this will add extra costs.
2. Smart Thermostat (£150 – £400)
Many modern boilers come with smart thermostats like Nest or Hive, allowing better energy efficiency.
3. Power Flushing (£300 – £600)
A power flush cleans out your radiators and heating system, improving efficiency and extending your new boiler’s lifespan.
4. Warranty and Service Plans (£150 – £400 per year)
Most boilers come with a 5 to 10-year warranty, but extended service plans can offer peace of mind.
Government Grants and Boiler Financing in the UK
If the cost of a new boiler seems too high, you may be eligible for government grants or financing options.
- Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS): Grants up to £7,500 for heat pump replacements.
- Energy Company Obligation (ECO4): Free boiler replacement for low-income households.
- Pay Monthly Boiler Finance: Many suppliers offer interest-free monthly payments.
Is It Worth Buying a New Boiler?
If your existing boiler is over 10 years old, inefficient, or constantly breaking down, investing in a new boiler can save you money in the long run.
Lower Energy Bills: A modern boiler can be 30% more efficient, reducing your annual gas bills.
Fewer Repairs: Older boilers require frequent and costly repairs.
Increased Property Value: A new, energy-efficient boiler makes your home more attractive to buyers.
Conclusion
So, how much is a new boiler in the UK? The cost can range from £1,500 to £5,500, depending on the type of boiler, brand, installation, and additional expenses. While it may seem like a significant investment, upgrading to a modern, energy-efficient boiler can help reduce your energy bills and provide better heating efficiency.
Before purchasing, compare quotes from different suppliers, check for government grants, and consider financing options if needed. Investing in a new boiler is a long-term decision that can benefit your household’s comfort and energy savings.