New Homeowners Guide To Buying A Boiler

First of all, congratulations! Being a new homeowner is a milestone in life, and you should enjoy every minute of it. Although, it can also be a shock to the system when you realise how much work needs to be done before you can have your happily ever after. One of the main things new homeowners tend to forget about is boilers, and most modern homes don’t come equipped with one- so you’ll have to search for yourself. Finding the right boiler can be hard, especially when your knowledge is limited. Please read on to find out our top tips for choosing the perfect boiler for your perfect new home.

Educate yourself

Before you start the hunt for a new boiler, it’s essential to know what a suitable boiler does and why they are so important. It’s common knowledge that boilers are crucial- but why? In a nutshell, boilers are responsible for everything in our homes from heating to hot water and without them we would be shivering and dirty. Knowing the ins and outs of boilers will help you make a much more informed decision down the line.

Set out your needs

Finding out what you’ve already got is the first step. Have you already got a boiler in your new home but need a new one? Or is this the first one to be fitted? Researching around your neighbourhood to gather knowledge about what boilers similar homes have will help you decided on your needs and help set you on the right track. At this point, you also need to create a budget that you can stick to. Boilers can be expensive, especially if you don’t look around. The price can depend on a range of things, but usually includes these features:

  • The brand. Brands of boilers vary depending on the company you buy from. The most popular brands are Worcester Bosch, Grant, Glow Worm, Ideal and Viessmann.

The type. There are three main types of boilers, which are: condensing boilers, combi boilers and system boilers. They all work in slightly different ways.

  • Condensing Boiler

This type of boiler runs on either gas tube boiler or oil and is designed to improve energy efficiency. They achieve over 90% efficiency, which is what makes it slightly cheaper to run longterm.

  • Combi Boilers

What makes these stand out is the compact system that incorporates a highly-efficient water heater and central heating all in one. They can, therefore, heat your home and your water simultaneously!

  • Conventional Boiler

Usually found in older homes, conventional boilers take up a large amount of space in your loft or attic through a water cylinder. Although you may think they are a thing of the past, they are great for larger homes where more energy is required.

  • System Boilers

This type of boiler is similar to the conventional boiler, in the fact that it heats your central heating system by producing hot water for a storage cylinder. What makes the system boiler varied is the fact that it uses water straight from the mains.

  • The size. There’s no point investing in the highest quality boiler if it’s not going to fit in your house. Depending on the type of accommodation you have bought will depend on the type of boiler you buy and the size of it. For example, conventional boilers aren’t suited to flats due to their size and positioning. When looking at sizing up a boiler, take these points into account:
  1. Property Size
  2. Number of Floors
  3. Number of Bathrooms
  4. Number of Radiators
  5. Number of Residents

If you’re still struggling to get your head around it, read this article about choosing the right size boiler.

  • The installation price. Often there are hidden costs with some boiler distributors, and installation tends to be a big one. Always double-check the total rate, including any hidden fees before you commit.

Don’t buy the first one you see

It’s a rookie error, but it’s commonly done. Purchasing the first boiler you find is the quickest way to complete the job, but not always the easiest (nor the cheapest). Looking at different competitors will give you an idea of average price, along with various benefits and warranties for each one. Play the market and find the best deals possible otherwise, you could end up regretting your decision.

Finding a new boiler can be confusing and challenging to process, especially as a new homeowner. However, if you follow these steps, the process will become more manageable, and you’re less likely to slip up.

Laura Ashley

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