Boiler Buying Guide

Getting the right boiler can save you money and ensure that you always have access to hot water when you need it. Boiler technology has changed significantly in recent years, mainly for the better.

There are three types of boiler commonly sold. A heat-only boiler, also called a traditional boiler, will use a cylinder in the airing cupboard. System boilers are more common in modern homes, with a hot water cylinder that doesn’t need to be vented. Combi boilers produce instant hot water, so there is no need for a large water tank.

Best Boiler Brands

There are certain boiler brands that have an exceptional and trustworthy background.

Worcester Bosch

Worcester Bosch is the most widely known brand in the UK when it comes to boilers. They offer several different systems including combi and system boilers. The Greenstar range is their most popular.

With many models costing over £1,500, their boilers are fairly expensive. However, Worcester Bosch offers generous warranties of up to 10 years and consistently gets high ratings from independent reviewers such as Which.co.uk.

Viessmann Boilers

Viessmann Boilers provides German engineering for your home.

Many Viessmann models are quite expensive. However, the quality is clear to see. For example, the Viessmann Vitodens 100-W, costing £1119.98, is one of the most consistent and reliable combi boilers money can buy.

Alpha

Alpha offers boilers with some excellent features on a budget. Designed in Italy, their products have a parts and labour warranty. Many models protect the buyer for up to 10 years after purchase.

The stainless-steel heat exchanger makes the E-Tec boilers in their range very efficient. They are also some of the smallest combi boilers out there, which is great for homes where space is at a premium.

Though it can be harder to find someone to install an Alpha boiler, the manufacturers are known for being reliable.

How to Get the Best Deal on a Boiler

There are a few simple ways in which you can save money on your boiler without having to sacrifice quality. While it’s tempting to just buy the cheapest boiler possible, this usually leads to complications. As a result, you may need to replace it sooner.

Find a trustworthy installer and don’t go with an estimated quote. You should only work with someone willing to provide an itemised quote after they’ve seen your home and what you will need. Otherwise, you might find some nasty added costs bolted on. Checking if the installer is Gas Safe registered gives you an idea of whether or not they can be trusted, but customer testimonials are also needed.

Opt for an efficient boiler. In addition to thinking about short-term savings, consider how much you spend yearly on your heating costs. A more efficient boiler could save you hundreds of pounds, according to the Energy Saving Trust.

Another way to save is by applying for grants to put towards the cost. To find out if there are any grants you qualify for, enter your postcode on BoilerGrants’ website.