Boiler Comparison: Costs and Quotes in the UK (2024)

Is running a boiler comparison turning your brain into mush? You're definitely not alone. Boiler comparisons can feel like cracking a secret code. 

Boiler types, efficiency ratings, fuel types; trying to compare gas boilers, compare combi boilers, compare new boiler prices…It's enough to make you want to crawl back under the covers, hoping some magic sorting hat picks one for you.

In this guide, we'll try to make it easier for you to compare boilers. We'll break down the different types and compare new boiler prices in the UK for the most efficient boilers on the market. 

Also, we can help you with the new boiler quote comparison. Searching for quotes on your own can turn into a nightmare that never ends. You can spend weeks calling installers before you get any results.

Why not use our service to receive up to 3 boiler quotes quickly and easily? Simply fill in our 30-second form, and we'll connect you with experienced boiler specialists near you. Our quotes are free and non-binding. Click below to begin.

First, let's compare boiler options based on three available types. 

Combi boilers heat water directly on demand, eliminating the need for a bulky hot water storage tank. Cold water enters the unit, gets heated by a gas burner or electric element, and then travels straight to your taps and central heating.

This compact design makes them the best boilers for smaller homes with limited space. Installation is also simpler compared to other systems. Plus, you get the convenience of instant hot water, eliminating the need to wait for a tank to refill.

However, while doing your combi boiler comparison, keep in mind their limitations. The biggest concern is hot water flow. They might struggle to meet high demand in larger households with multiple bathrooms or frequent hot water use. 

Additionally, combi boilers can be sensitive to fluctuating water pressure, leading to inconsistent hot water flow. Finally, they tend to have a shorter lifespan compared to other options. So, when you compare combi boilers, choose the most efficient ones.

System boilers offer a happy medium between efficiency and hot water availability. They work similarly to combi boilers by heating water on demand. But instead of directly feeding the taps, the hot water is stored in a separate hot water cylinder. This ensures a consistent flow of hot water, even when multiple taps are running simultaneously.

System boilers are perfect for larger homes with multiple bathrooms or frequent hot water use. They deliver a steady flow of hot water regardless of demand and generally last longer than combi boilers due to less wear and tear on the boiler itself.

However, system boilers require more space to accommodate the dedicated hot water cylinder. Additionally, the extra component adds to the overall installation cost compared to a combi boiler.

This is the classic boiler setup often found in older homes. Similar to a system boiler, it uses a separate hot water cylinder for storage, but it also requires a cold water storage tank typically located in the loft.

The boiler heats water, which is then stored in the cylinder. Cold water from the loft tank feeds into the cylinder, ensuring a constant supply of refillable hot water. This traditional setup offers reliable hot water flow, even with high demand. Also, it can potentially be a more budget-friendly option compared to system boilers, especially for replacements in existing setups with tanks already present.

However, conventional boilers have drawbacks. Unlike combi boilers, they require a separate hot water cylinder, a cold water tank, and venting systems (flues). Installing a new flue or modifying an existing one can be a complex process, especially if the layout of your home has changed since the original boiler was installed.

Depending on the configuration of your current system, connecting a new conventional boiler to existing pipework might require adjustments or rerouting pipes. However, installing a new conventional boiler in a home that might not have had one previously requires additional work to accommodate the venting system and potentially reroute pipes to connect with the new boiler.

If you're wondering which boiler type is best for your situation, it’s best to decide together with an experienced boiler installer. 

Simply click the button below and complete our brief 30-second form. We'll promptly connect you with up to 3 vetted installers, ensuring a seamless transition to an efficient boiler solution.

Natural gas is the most popular fuel for boilers in the UK, used by combi, traditional, and system boilers. It is a clean-burning and efficient fuel that produces fewer carbon emissions than coal or oil. 

23 million UK households use gas boilers for heating, which is around 85% of homes in the country. 

Gas boiler efficiency mainly depends on age, type, and design. Upgrading to a high-efficiency gas boiler can reduce homeowners' energy bills by up to £475 and their carbon footprint. 

When you compare gas boilers, keep in mind that while natural gas is cleaner than other fossil fuels like coal, it still contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change. 

Thus, the UK government has set ambitious targets to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, which includes phasing out the installation of new gas boilers. The timeline for this transition is currently being debated, with initial plans to ban the sale of new gas boilers by 2025 potentially being extended to 2035 or even cancelled completely.

LPG (liquid petroleum gas), which includes propane and butane, is another fuel option during the boiler comparison. It is especially suitable in areas not connected to the natural gas grid. 

LPG has a higher energy content at 93.2 MJ/m³ than natural gas (around 39MJ/m³). This means that less LPG is required to produce the same amount of heat, making it more efficient as a fuel source. 

Due to its higher energy density, LPG can be a more cost-effective alternative to natural gas in certain situations despite potentially higher upfront costs for storage and delivery.

Also, when burned, LPG produces less CO2 than natural gas. It emits 15% less CO2 than kerosene, 29% less than gas oil, and 25% less than heavy fuel oil.

However, unlike natural gas, which is delivered through pipelines, LPG must be stored in pressurised tanks and delivered periodically, which is less convenient. Also, the storage and delivery costs can add to the overall expense.

Avoid the hassle of spending hours on boiler comparison and calling up companies. We can easily bring you up to 3 free, non-binding quotes from installers we’ve personally vetted. Click the button below to get started.

Oil boilers are a popular heating solution for homes in the UK that are not connected to the gas grid. About 4 million UK homes aren't on the gas grid, and it's estimated that about 2 million UK homes use oil-fired central heating boilers. 

Oil boilers typically use kerosene as their primary fuel source, stored in an external storage tank on the property. They can be internal or external models, with external boilers being a popular choice where internal space is limited.

Some of the top oil boiler brands in the UK include Warmflow, Grant, Viessmann, and Worcester Bosch boilers. 

Electric boilers are an alternative heating solution that converts electricity into heat for your central heating system and hot water. While not as common as gas boilers in the UK, they are gaining traction due to the push for greener heating options.

Electric boilers can be considered truly emission-free and environmentally friendly throughout their lifecycle if the electricity is generated from renewable sources like solar, wind, or hydroelectric power. There are no combustion byproducts like carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), carbon monoxide (CO), or particulate matter since no fossil fuels are burnt.  

However, if the electricity comes from fossil fuel-based power plants (coal, natural gas, etc.), then the electric boiler is simply shifting the emissions from the home to the power plant. 

Biomass boilers burn wood pellets, chips, or logs to generate heat for your home. 

Biomass boilers burn wood fuel (pellets, chips, logs) to heat water. This hot water warms your home through radiators and (in some models) provides hot tap water. The key is to keep the fire going (fuel hopper) and transfer the heat (heat exchanger) to the water circulating throughout your home. However, unlike gas boilers, they require more maintenance and rely on sustainable fuel sources.

Biomass boilers are highly efficient, with modern models achieving efficiency ratings of up to 90% or more. While they offer a renewable heating option, their popularity in the UK is modest compared to gas or electric boilers.

The initial cost of biomass boilers can be significant, especially compared to conventional and combi boiler prices.

When you compare boiler prices in the UK, it's best if you do it with an experienced installer. They can help you with the new boiler price comparison based on your specific situation. 

Household Quotes can connect you with the best installers in your location, whether you're looking for gas or combi boiler quotes. Get 3 free, non-binding quotes with just a click. Complete our short form by clicking the button below.

While the UK boasts many reliable boiler brands, choosing can be tricky. One homeowner might prioritise affordability over fancy features, while another focuses on finding an environmentally friendly and efficient boiler.

All basic boiler comparisons involve researching manufacturer reviews, boiler company awards, and endorsements to pick the best brand for your needs, whether it's a budget-friendly option or one known for innovation.

When comparing boilers from different brands, several key factors should be considered:

When shopping for a new boiler, it's crucial to do a proper boiler price comparison. This includes both the boiler itself and installation.

Researching different boilers allows you to weigh factors like energy efficiency, output size, warranties, and features. This empowers you to choose the perfect boiler for your needs and budget.

Boiler replacement typically costs between £2,000 and £6,250 (including installation). This variation is due to the boiler type, installation costs, fuel type, and brand.

Here are the typical costs to refer to when you compare new boiler prices:

If you find boiler prices overwhelming, applying for boiler grants is a good option to significantly save on the new boiler cost. For example, with the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, you can get up to £7,500 to install a biomass boiler. 

ECO4 is a UK government-backed initiative that aims to improve the energy efficiency of homes across the country. It specifically targets low-income households and those in fuel poverty. If you receive certain government benefits, you can get free or subsidised installations of loft insulation, cavity wall insulation, solid wall insulation (for specific situations), upgraded boilers (including some biomass models), and heat pumps.

A professional boiler installer can help you understand whether you're eligible for a boiler grant.  Alternatively, they can help you compare boiler prices to find the one that suits your budget. 

Next, it's advisable to compare boiler quotes from local engineers to make sure you don't overspend on installation. You can search for a boiler installer yourself, but how time-consuming would that be? 

Thankfully, Household Quotes can make the new boiler quote comparison a breeze! We can connect you with up to 3 boiler installers we have thoroughly vetted. Simply answer a couple of questions in our 30-second form and receive free, non-binding quotes to choose from. Click below to begin.

When comparing boiler payback periods, several factors need to be considered, including the boiler's initial cost, installation costs, and annual savings on energy bills. 

The payback period for a boiler is also influenced by its efficiency rating. The higher it is, the lower your payback period. Thankfully, as of April 2018, the new Boiler Standards require a minimum performance for domestic gas boilers in England of not lower than 92%.

So, here are the typical payback periods for different efficiency ratings:

New boiler comparison can feel like a daunting task. Sifting through technical jargon, researching different boiler types, and then hunting down reliable installers – it's enough to derail your entire heating project.

However, even if you know which boiler will suit your home, there's a catch. Most reputable installers can be booked up weeks in advance, leaving you in the cold (literally).

Their busy schedules often mean hours spent searching online reviews and comparing quotes. This can easily turn into another exhausting chore on your list.

Thankfully, with Household Quotes, you can avoid lengthy searches. Fill in our 30-second form to receive up to 3 quotes from reputable installers near you. Once you get your boiler quotes, compare them to choose the one that fits your budget best. It's free and non-binding. Click below to get started.