Replacing your boiler can seem daunting, with many putting this task off until it breaks completely. The last thing you want during winter is to be left without hot running water and heated radiators. So, if your energy bills have sky-rocketed unexplainedly or your boiler is at least 15 years old, it’s likely that your boiler isn’t functioning correctly anymore and its probably time to invest in a replacement.
This household chore has a reputation for being time-consuming, expensive, and a huge hassle, so it’s understandable if it fills you with dread. However, you can avoid this experience by being on alert for the ‘cowboy builders’ and hiring a reputable company to conduct the job instead.
Here are six ways to make the boiler installation process seamless, painless, and quick.
Don’t wait for it to break
If you know your boiler needs replacing, summer is the best time to arrange the installation, so you aren’t as reliant on your hot water and heating. If you update your boiler before it’s urgent, you won’t be in as much of a rush.
Find relevant information
Before searching for a new boiler, prepare the specific details needed, including:
- the fuel your boiler uses
- the type of boiler you currently have (e.g. combi, conventional, or system)
- whether you have thermostatic radiator valves (TRV) fitted
- where the flue comes out of
Having this information to hand will save you time when finding the right replacement boiler.
Arrange it online
The process of finding the boiler and an engineer to install it can be lengthy. You may start by scrolling compare sites for different quotes which can be stressful if you aren’t sure the type of boiler you need. Once you’ve chosen a quote, there are often several hoops to jump through before the installation date is selected, including numerous phone calls and email conversations with a salesperson. These unnecessary steps can waste time and over-complicate the procedure.
If you’re looking for guidance on which boiler you need, the BOXT ‘find your boiler’ tool advises you on the most suitable boiler by asking you a few simple questions about your home. All the necessary information involved in the process, including payment, will be presented to you through the online service. On top of this, BOXT can also arrange the entire installation process for you. Being able to organise your boiler replacement online quickens the process drastically.
Find fixed prices
It’s no secret that buying a new boiler is expensive, which can be especially hard-hitting if it’s an unplanned expense. Unfortunately, it’s an unavoidable cost but to minimise the fee, work with a company that offers fixed prices, to avoid uncovering hidden charges at the end of the job. Some firms may give you the option of paying in monthly instalments if you don’t have the cash to pay up-front.
Organise it quickly
Hot water and heating are winter essentials so if you can, get the boiler replaced as soon as possible. You don’t want to delay enquiring about the installation to find out there aren’t any available slots for weeks. Avoid engineers that can’t give you an exact date as they may take longer than expected.
Ensure a speedy fix by hiring a Gas Safe registered engineer who will conduct the installation safely and efficiently.
Dispose of the old boiler
Being left with the old boiler once the installation is complete creates another time-consuming job for you to fit into your busy schedule. Manoeuvring the heavy appliance can also be tricky if you don’t have any assistance. However, finding a company that disposes of the broken boiler for you means you can relax once the installation is complete and tick the errand off your to-do list.
Buying a new boiler isn’t a household chore that anybody looks forward to, but by following these tips, you can simplify the process to save yourself time and money.