Make sure the boiler is the source of the problem. Pumps, controls and pipework distribution can need separate investigation, and a new boiler will not automatically put those faults right.
For an agreed replacement scope and the existing system details to provide, explore boiler replacement.
Define the building's requirement
Ask the design assessment to consider your present use, demand for heating and hot water, and when heat is required. Mention planned changes. Copying a system chosen for previous occupants may leave the new installation poorly matched to the building.
Consider other ways of providing heat in the options review. The Carbon Trust's heat guidance considers the building, emitters and infrastructure alongside the heat source. A different technology needs that wider review.
Survey the installation interfaces
Check how the old equipment comes out and the new one gets in. Include connections, flues, ventilation, condensate disposal, power and controls, with any necessary changes. Confirm that equipment being kept is in suitable condition to connect to it.
For gas work, check both the registered business and the engineer's relevant work categories. Use HSE's guide to checking an engineer. Their registration must cover the job; the commercial installation still needs its own requirements checked.
Plan continuity and shutdowns
Agree when heating or hot water will stop, who is affected and how they will be told. If temporary supplies are needed, include them expressly in the price. Arrange delivery, lifting, protection and waste removal around use of the property.
Leave time for commissioning and system adjustments. Installation alone is not the end of the job: handover should establish how the completed system will operate.
Compare the complete quotation
Compare complete quotes covering removal, equipment, preparatory work, installation, control connections, commissioning and making good. Clarify excluded electrical or building work and who will arrange it.
Ask for the commissioning records, operating instructions, warranty information and maintenance needs. Add the new equipment to property records and have the controls explained to those using them.
FAQs
Can a replacement boiler use the same capacity as the old one?
That needs a design decision. The old boiler's label is useful evidence, but changes in demand or property use may require a different capacity.
Should the controls be included in the review?
Yes. Ask how the new boiler works with retained controls and the rest of the system. Specify any alterations needed rather than leaving them to installation day.
What should we provide before a survey?
Send the boiler details, recent reports, history of problems, drawings, operating hours and access restrictions. Explain planned alterations and how the property needs to function during the work.
Related help
Find heating and gas work, replacement planning and advice on repairing versus replacing, or discuss a boiler project.
Compare the complete cost
- Heating demand and the condition of the existing system.
- Boiler, flue, controls and changes to associated pipework.
- Removal, commissioning and arrangements while heating is unavailable.
Ask the quotation to show VAT, inclusions, exclusions and how any additional work will be agreed. Confirm whether the price covers the complete job or an initial visit.
A useful scope comparison
A replacement using suitable existing connections differs from a project that also needs flue changes, controls or wider system repairs. Compare the complete installed and commissioned scope.
Request a quotation
Provide plant details, service history, faults and the hours when heating and hot water are needed.
