The cost of a new boiler in the UK typically ranges significantly depending on its type and whether installation is included. Generally, you can expect an average cost between approximately £2,795 for an electric boiler and £3,290 for a system boiler, with installation.
Understanding the breakdown of these costs is essential, as the price is influenced by the boiler type and the complexity of the installation.
Average Boiler Costs by Type
The following table provides a breakdown of new boiler costs, differentiating between the unit cost and the average cost including professional installation:
Boiler Type | Boiler Unit Cost (Excluding Installation) | Average Cost (Including Installation) |
---|---|---|
Combi Boiler | £500 - £3,000 | £3,000 |
System Boiler | £580 - £3,500 | £3,290 |
Conventional Boiler | £600 - £3,500 | £3,050 |
Electric Boiler | £590 - £2,500 | £2,795 |
Factors Influencing Boiler Costs
Several key factors contribute to the overall price you'll pay for a new boiler:
Boiler Type
Each boiler type offers different functionality, impacting its unit cost and installation requirements:
- Combi Boilers: These are popular as they provide both central heating and hot water on demand from a single unit, without needing a separate hot water cylinder or cold-water tank. Their compact nature can sometimes make installation simpler, but larger, more powerful models can be pricier.
- System Boilers: Ideal for homes with multiple bathrooms, system boilers heat water for central heating and store hot water in a separate cylinder. Unlike conventional boilers, they don't require a cold-water tank, simplifying their installation slightly.
- Conventional Boilers (Regular or Heat-Only): These traditional boilers typically require both a hot water cylinder and cold-water tanks in the loft. They are a good choice for larger homes with high hot water demands, but their installation can be more involved due to the extra components.
- Electric Boilers: As their name suggests, these boilers use electricity to heat water, making them suitable for homes without a gas connection or those looking for a greener alternative (if powered by renewable electricity). While the unit cost can be lower, their running costs might be higher depending on electricity prices.
Installation Costs
Installation is a significant component of the overall boiler cost. This can include:
- Labour: The time and expertise required for a qualified engineer to remove your old boiler and install the new one.
- Complexity: Factors like moving the boiler to a new location, upgrading pipework, installing a new flue, or converting from one boiler type to another (e.g., conventional to combi) can significantly increase labour time and material costs.
- Ancillary Works: This might involve power flushing your heating system, installing new radiators, or upgrading the thermostat and controls.
- Location: Installation costs can vary by region due to differences in labour rates.
For more detailed insights into new boiler costs and installation, you can explore resources like Boiler Guide's information on new boiler prices.