If you’re considering getting a new boiler installed, one of the main questions you will have is “How long will it take?” In this guide, we’ll inform you of the average timescales that you should expect for different boiler installation scenarios – this should help you organise your time accordingly.
How long could a boiler installation take?
On average, a new boiler installation can take between 1-3 days depending on the complexity of the job. You should also set aside time for your survey appointment, which will take place prior to your installation. In this appointment, a surveyor will engage with you about your home and heating needs in order to ensure that a suitable boiler is selected and installed.
HomeServe offer two types of survey appointments, namely:
Video survey
This is a quick and easy option for homeowners who prefer to have their survey conducted electronically. All you have to do is download the survey app and a surveyor will guide you through the survey process – examining your current system and assessing your heating and hot water needs.
In-home survey
During this appointment, a surveyor will visit your home and examine your current heating system – this includes the boiler, gas meter and bathrooms etc. They’ll also ask you about your requirements for heating and hot water.
At the end of each survey you will be given a quote for your new boiler installation.
The complexity of the installation
The time taken to install your new boiler will be heavily impacted by the complexity of the job and the amount of labour required – this will also affect the cost. Below are a few examples of how complex some boiler installations can be:
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Straight swap, same location
Also known as a like-for-like swap, this type of installation involves replacing your current system with a boiler of the same type. This is generally the fastest type of installation as it requires minimal change, it could take just one day to complete.
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Boiler relocation
Choosing to have your new boiler moved to a different place within your home could slightly prolong the installation process. Your engineer may have to make changes to the existing pipework or they may have to cap the current pipework and install new elements to the new location. This adjustment could add another day onto your installation.
It’s worth noting that generally, the further away you choose to install your new boiler, the longer the installation is likely to take – it’s also likely to raise costs.
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System upgrade
Some homeowners choose to change the type of boiler they have installed completely. For example, switching from a regular boiler to a combi boiler would be considered a system upgrade. Combi boilers have become the most popular boiler type in the UK, so many people opt to upgrade to this type of system.
This kind of change could make your installation last up to 3 days or more depending on the complexity of the job. Although this may seem like a long process, you should consider the benefits of upgrading to a more efficient system. Choosing a suitable boiler for your home can provide you with all the heating and hot water you need, you could also save money on your annual energy bills by using a more efficient system [2].
Other factors to consider
Installing smart controls
Smart thermostats are becoming increasingly popular due to their innovative functions and ease of use. These gadgets allow you to control your heating from anywhere using your smartphone, tablet or other device. Some smart thermostats also have the ability to learn your central heating habits and programme themselves to follow your usual routine.
Getting a system Powerflush
A deep clean that is designed to get rid of any sludge, debris or rust out of your central heating system, a Powerflush could help to ensure that your new system functions as efficiently as possible. This involves sending a chemically infused liquid at a high velocity through your radiators and pipes. This highly-effective process can take up to 5 hours to complete.
Upgrading your gas mains
If you currently have an older system, the pipework may not be suitable for the new boiler you want installed. If the size of your gas installation pipework doesn’t meet the requirements for your new boiler, it will need to be changed. Completing this could take your engineer a few extra hours depending on the complexity of the job.
Your new heating system
HomeServe has a number of qualified advisers and engineers that could help you decide on the best heating system for your home. All of HomeServe’s engineers are Gas Safe registered, so you can rest assured knowing that they have the knowledge and expertise to provide you with a first-class boiler installation. Find out more about new boiler installations and try our free online quote tool today to get to the first step in your new boiler installation.
*Source: energysavingtrust.org.uk. Saving calculated when replacing G-rated with A-rated boiler in a semi-detached house.
