New boiler Installations & Replacements in Edinburgh

It’s a good question that we get asked most weeks.

How much your new boiler will cost will vary depending on things like the type of boiler, the brand, the complexity of the installation, and whether any upgrades are needed for your heating system in general.

Boiler Type: Combi boilers, system boilers, and heat-only (regular) boilers differ in price.  Combi boilers, which provide heat and hot water from one unit, tend to be a popular choice due to their efficiency and compact size, and can cost anywhere from £1,500 to £3,000.

Brand: High-end brands like Worcester Bosch, Viessmann, and Vaillant might cost more, but they often offer better reliability and longer warranties.

Installation Complexity: The installation costs can vary significantly based on whether it’s a straightforward boiler replacement of an existing boiler in the same location or a more complex installation that requires moving the boiler or significant changes to the pipes and radiators.  Always take advice from a company you trust to offer you the best value possible.

Additional Costs: Things like upgrading your gas pipe, installing new radiators, or installing new themostatic radiator valves can add to the overall cost.

In general, you might expect to pay anywhere from £2,000 to £4,000 for a new boiler installation in Edinburgh, including the boiler itself and installation services.  It’s a good idea to get multiple quotes from different providers to compare prices and services.  Also, check for any available grants which might help reduce the cost.

Most homeowners will eventually face the decision of whether to get a new boiler or not. Good and clear communication from your heating engineer is essential to help you make an informed choice.  Below are a few points to consider or questions to ask your boiler engineer.

1. Age and Condition of Your Current Boiler: If your boiler is old (typically more than 15 years), is in poor condition or requires frequent repairs, it might be more cost-effective to replace it.  New boilers are more efficient, which can save you money on energy bills in the long run.
2. Energy Efficiency: New boilers are generally more energy-efficient than older ones.  Modern condensing boilers can achieve efficiency levels of over 90%, compared to 60-70% for older models. This efficiency can significantly lower your heating bills.
3. Your Carbon Footprint: Upgrading to a more energy-efficient boiler reduces your home’s carbon footprint.  Since boilers account for a significant portion of household CO2 emissions, a new, efficient boiler will contribute to lowering your homes carbon footprint.
4. Reliability and Peace of Mind: New boilers come with warranties that can last up to 12 years, offering peace of mind and protection from unexpected repair costs.
5. Home Improvement: If you’re planning to sell your home, a new boiler can increase its attractiveness to buyers and potentially its value, as it means one less expense the new owners will need to worry about.
6. Regulations: Depending on your location, there may be regulatory incentives or requirements to replace older, less efficient boilers with models that meet higher environmental standards.
7. Cost of Replacement vs. Repair: Compare the cost of ongoing repairs and maintenance of your old boiler with the investment in a new one.  Although the initial cost of a new boiler can be high, the reduction in repair costs and energy bills can make it a worthwhile investment. Check out our 0% finance offers.

If your current boiler is still performing well, isn’t too costly to maintain, and your heating bills are manageable, it might be more practical to hold off on a new purchase. However, if you’re facing high boiler repair / boiler maintenance costs, poor efficiency, or reliability issues, upgrading to a new boiler could be a wise decision now.

A straight boiler swap, were the new boiler is of the same type and being installed in the same location as the old one, is relatively straightforward and usually the quickest type of boiler replacement. Here is a basic step by step process below:

1. Isolation and Drainage: Gas pipe work is tested for safety. The heating system is isolated, meaning the water and power supplies are turned off to ensure safety. The central heating system is then drained down to remove any water and prevent leaks during the installation.
2. Disconnection: The old boiler is disconnected from the electrical supply, gas supply pipework, boiler thermostat and any piping that is directly attached to it. This step requires careful handling to ensure that connections are safely capped off.
3. Removal: Once safely disconnected, the old boiler can be removed. This might involve some manual labour, especially if the boiler is large or in a cramped space, our boiler installers normally work with an apprentice to help with any heavy manual lifting.
4. Installation of New Boiler: The new boiler is then placed in the same spot as the old one. It’s connected to the existing or newly fitted water, gas and condensate piping, electrical supply, and thermostat. The connections are secured to prevent leaks.
5. System Refill and Testing: After the physical installation, chemicals are added and the system is refilled with water. The boiler is then powered on and thoroughly tested to ensure it operates correctly, safely and efficiently, checking for any leaks or faults.
6. Commissioning and Final Checks: Finally, the new boiler is commissioned according to the manufacturer’s instructions and industry standards. This includes setting up the boiler controls and ensuring the system is balanced and delivering heat effectively throughout the home. All safety checks have now been completed.

Since this type of installation is less complex, it can often be completed in about 4 to 6 hours, depending on the specific circumstances like access and the exact model being installed. It’s a relatively quick job that causes minimal disruption to your home. However if you are changing your current heat only (regular) or system boiler to a combi boiler system, it may take anything between 1-2 days to complete the boiler replacement.

Celsius Recommended Boiler Brands:

• Worcester Bosch: Highly regarded for reliability and efficiency, Worcester Bosch offers a range of models with excellent after-sales service and warranties of up to 12 years.  The Worcester 1000 30kw combi boiler is a great budget friendly choice for smaller homes with 1 bathroom.
• Viessmann: Known for innovative German technology, Viessmann boilers build quality are second to none.  The Viessmann 050-w 30kw combi boiler is popular with larger family homes.
• Ideal Boilers: Often considered great value for money, British made Ideal offers a range of reliable boilers at competitive prices, with straightforward installation and strong warranties. We sell more Ideal boilers than any other brand, and the Ideal Vogue max 40kw combi boiler is a real favourite with those that have a large family home.
• Glow-Worm: Known for good customer service and reliability, Glow-Worm boilers can be a more cost-effective option and come with warranties starting at 5 years.  The Micracom 28kw combi boiler is very popular amongst Edinburgh landlords.
• Vaillant: Vaillant is another trusted name with a range of efficient combi, system, and regular boilers.  They offer models suited to a variety of home sizes and are known for their eco-friendly options.
• Keston: The Keston 30kw combi boiler is perfect for those with more modern homes (like the modern flats in Leith that were built in the early 2000s) where a long flue run or a twin flue system is the practical solution.

When selecting a boiler, it is a good idea to discuss your options with a professional heating engineer who can assess your specific needs based on your home’s size, your family’s water usage, and other important factors.  Your heating professional should provide tailored advice and ensure that you choose the most suitable boiler for your circumstances, not just what they want to fit.

Things to Consider

1. Boiler Type: There are three main types of boilers:
   • Combi boilers provide heat and instant hot water from the boiler itself without the need for a tank. They are best for smaller homes where space is at a premium.
   • System boilers require a hot water cylinder (tank) for storing hot water, but all other components are built into the boiler. Ideal for homes with multiple bathrooms.
   • Regular (conventional) boilers require both a cylinder and a cold water tank(s). They’re suitable for homes with significantly higher water usage or multiple bathrooms.
2. Size and Output: The size of the boiler (in kilowatts kW) should match the heating and hot water demands of your home. An undersized boiler won’t heat your home adequately, whilst an oversized boiler will waste energy costing you money.
3. Efficiency: Look for a boiler that is energy efficient to reduce gas bills and your home’s carbon footprint. New condensing boilers have higher efficiency levels and must be ‘A rated’.
4. Reliability: Choose a brand known for reliability to avoid frequent repairs. Checking consumer reviews and getting professional installer feedback can help with this. Remember its your home, so you choose what is right for you.
5. Warranty: The length of the warranty is important. Look for options that offer extended warranties, which can provide peace of mind and potentially indicate a more reliable product. Celsius offers up to 12-year full parts and labour warranties, as we are accredited with many leading boiler brands
6. Cost: Prices can vary significantly, so consider both the upfront cost and the long-term savings from reduced energy bills. If you are paying a monthly direct debit for boiler care, A new boiler manufactures warranty would mean you would no longer need to pay for monthly boiler care.

Affording a new boiler can be more manageable than you might think, especially with financing options that spread the cost over time without adding any extra expense through interest.  Here’s how you can make a new boiler installation affordable: 2 Years 0% Finance Offer.

Celsius Plumbing and Heating offers a 2 years 0% finance plan, which is an excellent way to invest in a new boiler without feeling the pinch on your finances.  Here’s what this offer entails and how it can benefit you:

1. No Upfront Cost: You don’t have to pay the full amount for the new boiler upfront.  Instead, you can spread the cost over 24 months without any interest charges.  This means you pay only for the cost of the boiler divided into manageable monthly instalments.
2. Budget-Friendly: Since there’s no interest added, you won’t pay more than the original price of the boiler.  This can help you manage your monthly household budget better without sacrificing heating efficiency and reliability in your home.
3. Easy Approval Process: The approval process for financing is usually straightforward, often with quick decisions so you can proceed with the installation sometimes as soon as the next day.
4. Improve Home Efficiency Sooner: With the ability to spread the cost, you can upgrade to a more energy-efficient boiler sooner rather than later.  This can start saving you money on your energy bills straight away, which can partially offset the monthly payments.
5. Warranty and Peace of Mind: Investing in a new boiler through a finance plan doesn’t mean you’ll miss out on the perks that come with a full upfront payment.  You’ll still enjoy the full warranty and New Celsius Boiler Aftercare, ensuring your investment is protected.

When comparing Worcester Bosch and Ideal boilers, the choice between them often comes down to specific needs and preferences, as both brands have their strengths.  Here’s a more detailed look at how these two popular brands stack up against each other in terms of affordability, quality, and the materials used in their heat exchangers (which is your boilers main engine):

Ideal Boilers:

• Affordability: Ideal boilers are generally known for being cost-effective, making them an attractive option for those on a price focused budget.
• Heat Exchanger Material: Many Ideal boilers feature stainless steel heat exchangers.  Stainless steel is praised for its resistance to corrosion and its longevity, which can be a crucial factor in maintaining the boiler’s efficiency over time.
• Range and Options: Ideal offers a wide range of boilers that can suit various household needs, from compact combi boilers ideal for smaller homes to more robust system boilers.
• Celsius rating 8/10

Worcester Bosch Boilers:

• Premium Option: Worcester Bosch is often seen as a more premium brand.  The boilers tend to be at a higher price point but are highly regarded for their reliability and performance.
• Heat Exchanger Material: Worcester Bosch boilers typically use aluminium heat exchangers.  Aluminium offers excellent heat transfer and is lighter than stainless steel, but it might be more prone to corrosion if not properly maintained.
• Reputation and Reliability: Worcester Bosch has a strong reputation for building durable and efficient boilers.  They also offer extensive warranty periods, which can provide additional peace of mind to homeowners.  The customer service with Worcester Bosch is industry leading.
• Celsius rating 8.5/10

Making Your Choice:

• Consider Your Usage: If your home has high water usage or if you live in an area with hard water, a stainless steel heat exchanger like those in Ideal boilers might be more beneficial due to its corrosion resistance.
• Budget vs. Long-Term Value: If upfront cost is a significant factor, Ideal might be the way to go.  However, if you can invest a bit more initially for potentially lower maintenance and longer lifespan, Worcester Bosch could be a better choice.
• Warranties and Service: Compare the warranty length and the terms of service and maintenance support offered by both brands.  A longer warranty might tip the scales if it comes with comprehensive coverage.

Ultimately, both brands offer high-quality products that can meet the needs of different homeowners.  The decision between Worcester Bosch and Ideal should be based on which features and advantages align best with your specific heating needs and financial considerations.

Checking what you have

1. System Compatibility: Most modern boilers, especially condensing boilers, are designed to be compatible with existing heating systems, including older radiators.  However, the effectiveness of your new central heating boiler system can be influenced by the condition and type of your existing radiators.
2. Condition of Radiators: Over time, radiators can develop issues such as corrosion, sludge build-up, or leaks.  These problems can reduce the efficiency of your central heating system.  It’s a good idea to have your radiators inspected and, if necessary, flushed or repaired before installing a new boiler.  This ensures they are in good working condition and can handle the new boiler’s operation. Speak to your heating professional for advice.
3. System Pressure: Modern boilers often operate at higher pressures than older systems.  Ensure by speaking to your heating professional that your old radiators and pipework can withstand this pressure.  If the system is too weak or old, it might require upgrading or reinforcing to cope with the new boiler.

Things we can do without needing to upgrade

• Balancing the System: After installing a new boiler, it might be necessary to balance the heating system.  This process involves adjusting the valves on the radiators to ensure even distribution of heat across all radiators in your home.  Proper balancing helps in maximising the efficiency of your heating.
• Thermostatic Radiator Valves (TRVs): Installing TRVs on old radiators can be a great way to improve control over the heating in different rooms and reduce energy consumption, making the system work more efficiently with your new boiler.
• Upgrading Radiators: If your radiators are very old or not energy efficient, consider replacing them.  Newer models are designed to work more effectively with modern boilers, potentially saving you money on heating bills and improving the overall comfort of your home.

Benefits of Trusting Celsius

It’s advisable to speak with a heating professional who can assess the state of your existing radiators and provide recommendations based on the specific requirements of the new boiler and your home’s heating needs.  This assessment can help avoid potential issues and ensure that your new boiler operates efficiently with your old radiators.  This is exactly what you get by contacting Celsius!

In summary, whilst a new boiler can generally work with old radiators, ensuring that the radiators are in good condition, compatible with the pressure requirements of the new boiler, and properly balanced, will help achieve the best performance from your updated heating system.

Yes, when fitting a new boiler, it’s typically necessary to have access to all radiators throughout the house. But why?

1. System Flushing: Before the boiler is installed, it’s common practice to flush the entire heating system to clear out any sludge, debris, or corrosion that has built up over time.  This helps ensure that the new boiler operates efficiently and is not immediately subjected to potential blockages or damage from old contaminants.
2. Balancing the System: After installing the new boiler, the heating system, including all radiators, needs to be balanced.  Balancing involves adjusting the flow of water to each radiator to ensure that they all heat up efficiently and evenly.  This is done by altering the valve settings on each radiator, which requires physical access to them.
3. Leak Checks: Access to radiators is also needed to check for leaks and ensure that all connections and fittings are secure.  This is particularly important after any system modifications that might have been made during the boiler installation.
4. Testing they work properly: Finally, having access to all radiators allows the boiler installer to verify that the entire system is working correctly with the new boiler.  They can ensure that each radiator is heating up properly and that there are no issues with the circulation of heat.

It’s best to clear any furniture or provide access to all areas with radiators ahead of the scheduled installation to get the most out of your new boiler replacement.