A good boiler will last you for a good 10-15 years so it is crucial you make the might decision when having a new one fitted.
With so many things to consider when it comes to boiler replacement Glasgow, from energy efficiency to finding a suitable safe engineer, it can be difficult to know where to start.
Fear not, however, as one of Scotland’s premier boiler installation companies, we have put together our top 7 tips for new boiler buyers, helping you find the perfect product to keep your home comfortable and safe for many years to come.
How to tell when you need a new boiler
Getting a new boiler can dramatically improve the energy efficiency of your home, protect you from winter breakdowns and save you a huge amount on your annual energy bills.
After around 10-12 years, most boilers will begin to deteriorate, losing some of their efficiency and requiring boiler repair services more often than you would like.
If you have noticed that you are paying more for your heating than you once did, or the system has become unreliable and prone to break downs, it is probably time to start your search for a new one.
7 tips for finding the perfect new boiler
Pick the type of boiler you want
There are several different types of boiler on the market, each with its own pros and cons to consider.
The right type for your property will depend on factors including the heating requirements of the property, the number of people living there, and personal preference.
Most people in the UK tend to choose combi-boilers due to their cost-effectiveness and space saving practicality. Combi-boilers required no water tank or additional cylinders to be installed aside from the boiler itself.
However, if you have multiple bathrooms in your property and a relatively high demand for hot water and pressure, you might be better off opting for a system boiler. The cylinder installed alongside the boiler allows it to provide all the heat and hot water required during periods of high demand, although the instant heat provided by combi boilers may not be possible at all times.
Finally, conventional boilers with a hot water cylinder and water tank are still used in many properties across the nation, but nowadays they are only recommended for properties with an existing system installed as combi and system boilers are far more efficient and convenient.
Do your research
There are a vast number of different boiler manufacturers that provide the boiler types mentioned above and your next decision will be to choose one.
Most major manufacturers offer combi, system, and conventional boiler types with some also providing oil boilers if required.
Pick a location
Most boiler replacements are installed in the same location as the old boiler as they can easily be fitted into the existing pipework and plumbing.
That said, most manufacturers are very flexible with their installations and can install boilers pretty much anywhere as long as they have access to an external wall.
Understandably, if you choose to relocate your boiler, this will require a certain amount of additional work by the engineer, something that will be factored into the installation price.
Choose an installer
Before you arrange your boiler installation with a local firm, you should first get quotes from at least three different companies. This will ensure that you are not being ripped off and allow you to find the best possible deal. Price of installation is not the only thing to consider, however, when picking a new boiler company and their reputation, reviews, and length of warranty are also important factors.
Only ever consider engineers who are Gas Safe Registered and legally allowed to perform work on gas boilers in the UK.
Choose a boiler with a long warranty
Boiler warranties are absolutely vital to getting value for money from your new boiler and protecting yourself from nasty repair bills in the first few years after installation.
In the event that your boiler does breakdown and repairs are needed, a manufacturers warranty will ensure you are not the one who has to fork out to have it fixed.
Bear in mind that most warranties only remain valid if you have the boiler serviced on an annual basis. Boiler warranties vary widely from 2-12 years depending on the manufacturer in question so try to choose one that provides protection for as many years as possible.
Pick the right size
The size of the boiler that you need will depend on the number of people living in the property and the size of the property. Boiler power is measured in kilowatts (kW) and it is vital you choose the right size as a boiler that is too small will have to work incredibly hard to meet your needs, leading to faster deterioration and higher energy bills