Here’s what to consider when estimating the project timescale for having a new boiler installed

Boilers usually last for about 15 years, so having a new boiler installed isn’t a job that you should need to get done very often.

However, if your existing boiler has come to the end of its life, you’ll want to plan the installation of your new boiler carefully. Make sure that you are aware about the cost of a new boiler in this guide by Boiler Central.

Knowing how long it is likely to take to install your new boiler will help you to plan the best time to have the job completed to cause minimal disruption for your household.

However, the answer to this question may not be as straightforward as you expect. Installing a new boiler could take hours, or it could take days, depending on a few factors.

Factors affecting the timescale for installing a new boiler

Some of the key factors that will affect how long it takes to install your new boiler include:

• Whether you are changing your boiler like-for-like or installing a new type of boiler.
• The type of boiler being installed.
• Where your boiler is located.
• Whether any complications arise during the installation.
• Whether you choose to have your system flushed out as part of the installation.

Let’s take a look at roughly how long each type of installation should take and what it involves.

Installing the same type of boiler in the same location

If you’re swapping an old combi boiler for a new combi boiler or an old standard boiler for a new standard boiler and keeping your boiler in the same location, then this is the quickest type of installation.

Like-for-like boiler installations usually take less than a day to complete if there are no complications.

This is because all the pipework should already be in place, making the job relatively simple.

Swapping a standard boiler for a combi boiler

Many people with standard boilers installed in their homes are now choosing to switch them for more efficient and cost-effective combi boilers when they fail.

Switching to a different type of boiler is a much bigger job and will take considerably longer to complete. It usually takes two to three days to upgrade to a new type of boiler.

This is because the job will involve removing your old water tank and installing new pipework in your home under the floorboards or behind the walls which can be messy and time consuming. 

Installing a boiler in a new location

If it’s time to upgrade your boiler then this is the perfect opportunity to relocate it to a different position in your house if this is something you’ve been considering for a while.

Many people choose to move boilers that are located in bedrooms to avoid the noise of the boiler disturbing them at night, or to create more storage space in the room.

However, bear in mind that moving a boiler can be quite a big job as it will usually require laying new pipework under the floor or in the walls.

Depending where you wish to move your boiler to, relocating it will usually add at least half a day to the job’s timescale.

Other factors affecting the project timescale

A few other factors that may make your boiler installation take longer include:

Complications

Boilers are subject to very strict Gas Safe regulations and the person installing your boiler must ensure that your system meets these regulations. If any complications with your system are discovered that mean that it does not meet these legal requirements, then your engineer will have to spend time resolving the problem to ensure the system is safe.

Flushing the system

When installing a new boiler, you may wish to have your entire heating system and radiators flushed out. This process helps to remove any build-up of dirt and ensure that your new boiler can work as efficiently as possible. Power flushing usually takes 2-4 hours.

Adding a smart thermostat

Smart thermostats have many benefits, not only are they extremely convenient, but they can also help to keep your heating running efficiently and your bills low. Adding a smart thermostat to your system usually takes about one hour.

If your boiler installation is going to involve invasive work like laying new pipework, you should also take into consideration the fact that there may be some decorating required once the job has been completed.

For more information on boiler installations, why not check out https://rangeheating.co.uk/