Need a new boiler

InhaleMood

Hi,

I have just moved into a new house, old listed property. It has a really inefficient boiler so I am looking at getting it changed to a condensing combi boiler.

I wondered if anyone could advise me on the best way to get a good deal?

I am trying to look into the Green Deal, but with the initial assessment cost and the interest paid, it doesn't look like a brilliant option. The other option is the Green Deal cashback, but again, you have to have the assessment.

British Gas seem to be offered a free visit to advise on the best option, but I'm sure they'll just push their own products.

As you can see, I'm getting a little confused!

Any suggestions?

Thanks,

MillicentBystander

How inefficient is the old boiler exactly? Please bear in mind it is very rarely money saving to replace an old, inefficient but safe and working boiler. Lots of threads on here detailing the reasons for this. Plus the old, unsophisticated boiler that I'm suspecting your new property has tend to last way longer (and require less maintenance) than the new fangled, sophisticated boilers.

InhaleMood

Oh that's interesting, I didn't realise that.

I looked up the 2009 SEDBUK category, and it was G, efficiency of 65%.....

MillicentBystander

Depending on your gas consumption, you may be looking at 15 years+ to get back your outlay in 'savings'. That's if the new boiler actually lasts that long! As long as the existing boiler is safe and working my advice would be keep the money in your bank until it actually gives up the ghost.

penrhyn

Another thing to consider is whether you actually want a Combi rather than a conventional heat only boiler.

IIWY I'd be looking at insulation before boiler, as you could get a faster ROI using that route.

Cardew

Many threads giving exactly the same sound advice as above. My 25+ year old G rated boiler will not be replaced until it really packs up.


Bear in mind that it is not a simple case of changing the boiler - especially to a combi. Regulations have changed and there may be many modifications required - gas supply, flue etc.


In a listed house those mods can add up to big money.


Also many threads worth perusing on the Combi v Conventional boiler debate.

InhaleMood

Ok, a lot more to think about than I realised!

I wasn't sure about insulation, as it is listed. Thought that might affect what I could do with it....?!

macman

Has it been serviced recently?
That's big of BG not to charge you for a quote (no RGI would), but bear in mind that they are typically 40% more expensive than an independent for a boiler install.
Make and model?
Is a combi even possible in the property? This can only be determined by a site visit by your preferred RGI to test flow and pressure. Is it a large property with more than one bathroom, if so a combi may not be suitable.

ollski

macman wrote: »

Has it been serviced recently?
That's big of BG not to charge you for a quote (no RGI would),

Quite a few decent busy installers would and do charge and then refund if you accept the quote, particularly if they know you are getting multiple quotes.

MillicentBystander

ollski wrote: »

Quite a few decent busy installers would and do charge and then refund if you accept the quote, particularly if they know you are getting multiple quotes.

LOL. I had 5 quote me for my father's boiler installation and would have told anyone who tried to charge for the quote to get stuffed. Charging for a quote in an industry that is overrun with self employed plumbers? Blimey.

ollski

Yes I know what you mean but it is more commonplace these days, I guess how many other services will offer you 2 hours or so of advice gratis?, not many.
The plumbing trade is awash with new entrants some of them decent, but the gas side hasn't really been affected too much.