which boiler?

pigeonpie

We're currently getting quotes on a replacement for a Powermax x155 boiler (which isn't made any longer). Its installation doesn't conform to norms - you can't inspect the flue which is vertical - so the installation cost of the new one has to include re-siting which is going to be v expensive

The heating engineer (recommended by someone we trust) suggests either a Vaillant or WBosch boiler. He says the first has some ugly exposed pipes which we would see on our flat's kitchen wall, so they'd have to be boxed in in some way not to be very unsightly, but the Vaillant has a 5 year guarantee; the Bosch is better to look at but has only a 2 year guarantee.
I am not sure what models he is talking about, but it's a combi boiler for a 2 bed flat. Boiler will be sited about as far away from the shower as it's possible to be, but no way round that unfortunately.
Any recomms please?

I've heard Vaillant CS isn't the best but presume the guarantee is also with the heating co that does the installation? thanks

garethgas

Unfortunately, I suspect you'll have lots of different opinions on which is better.
All boilers, (like cars) have their faults but frankly, either of those two makes (no idea what models) are a reputable brand.
No doubt, someone else will chirp in and advise on getting an X,Y or Z instead but your installer is the guy your dealing with and personally, I'd be happy with either make in my house.
PS. Good riddance to the 155x, thats one less for me to sort out :T

hope this helps

gas4you

If you get an accredited Worcester installer you will get a 5 year warranty on that as well.

paye

i'd recommend a vaillant condensing boiler everytime. Rolls royce for boilers.

pigeonpie

gas4you wrote: »

If you get an accredited Worcester installer you will get a 5 year warranty on that as well.

My guess is then that the guy we've been highly recommended has a deal with Vaillant (?).
He thinks they are both good but he prefers V although he says it would look uglier (unless we box it).
Still waiting for the quote- re-siting and non standard installation; think I'd better be sitting down when he calls.

Energyman2020

I always stay with Vaillant - good reliable boiler, good results inn Which? report and good reputation.

gas4you

paye wrote: »

i'd recommend a vaillant condensing boiler everytime. Rolls royce for boilers.

Far from that these days, Vaillant have slipped quite a way down the list in product quality and CS.

heating-eng

gas4you wrote: »

Far from that these days, Vaillant have slipped quite a way down the list in product quality and CS.

Valiant are by far the best in my opinion

Leif

When I was looking at quotes for a new condensing boiler, the managing director of a good local home improvement company (builder) told me that plumbers often recommend the one that gives them the best deal e.g. install 10 units and you get a bonus. They may also prefer brands they are familiar with. I have no idea if that is true, but local firms were suggesting brands such as Ideal Logic but I specifically asked for a Worcester Bosch. They may not be the best, but the reputation is good. Vaillant and Viessman are said to be good. But if I recall correctly a lower end Viessman has had nightmare problems, but do check as I might be wrong. After all I'm just a not knowledgeable punter.

Is the Which survey based on customer reviews over time?

heating-eng

Leif wrote: »

When I was looking at quotes for a new condensing boiler, the managing director of a good local home improvement company (builder) told me that plumbers often recommend the one that gives them the best deal e.g. install 10 units and you get a bonus. They may also prefer brands they are familiar with. I have no idea if that is true, but local firms were suggesting brands such as Ideal Logic but I specifically asked for a Worcester Bosch. They may not be the best, but the reputation is good. Vaillant and Viessman are said to be good. But if I recall correctly a lower end Viessman has had nightmare problems, but do check as I might be wrong. After all I'm just a not knowledgeable punter.

Is the Which survey based on customer reviews over time?

When I fit boilers I do not want to have any problems. I try and fit boilers that will not break down

Flamingo_2

We had our annual boiler check done yesterday (all ok, thankfully!) but out of interest i asked the British gas engineer which make of boiler he would recommend should we need to replace ours in the future. He said his preferred make was Valiant as they were "engineer friendly" on the inside with all the insides easily accessible & tidy. He also said they were a very good, reliable make of boiler.
Hope that helps