Getting a new boiler is one of the biggest investments you’ll make for your home. Whether your current unit has broken down or you’re upgrading to a more energy-efficient boiler, understanding what the installation process looks like makes everything less stressful. With our years of experience in the industry, Kerry Maintenance are there to offer expert, Gas Safe registered services across Stroud and the wider Gloucestershire area. Our qualified team makes sure that every boiler installation is smooth, safe, and completed with minimal disruption.
This step-by-step guide explains exactly what the process involves, from the initial survey right through to aftercare, so you’ll know what to expect at each stage.
Before Installation
The work begins before the engineer even unpacks their tools. A proper assessment ensures your new boiler suits your home and your central heating system.
- Site survey and choosing the right type of boiler: Your engineer will recommend whether a combi boiler (combination boiler), system boiler (may require a hot water cylinder), or conventional boiler (with a water storage tank) is best. Depending on the size of your home and your heating and hot water needs, there are pros and cons for each.
- Checking existing pipework and flue position: The survey also checks that your existing gas supply, pipework, and flue route are suitable. Sometimes upgrades are needed to meet modern safety standards.
- Gas Safe registration and regulations: Due to the risks involved, only a Gas Safe-registered engineer is legally allowed to carry out a boiler fitting. This guarantees that your installation is both safe and compliant with UK regulations.
- Preparing your property: To ensure that the process is seamless on installation day, it’s best to clear the area around your boiler and ensure that the engineer has access to your loft (if needed), as well as external walls, mains water supply, and your gas meter.
On the Day of Installation
You’ve made your initial enquiry and booked in a date and time for your engineer, but what happens on the installation day itself? Here’s what to expect.
Engineer Arrival and Safety Checks
The first element is meeting your engineer at the agreed time, who will carry out initial safety checks around your home. They’ll be able to confirm and tell you about the type of boiler being installed and explain what the work will involve.
Shutting Off Gas, Water, and Electricity
Before any of the manual labour begins, the engineer will turn off your gas, water supply and electrical connection to the boiler, to enable a safe removal of your old system.
Removing the Old Boiler
Next, it’s time for your current boiler to be carefully disconnected and removed. Depending on the location of your boiler, perhaps you have an older conventional boiler with a storage tank in the loft, then this could take longer than removing a modern combi boiler. Rest assured that any old parts will be safely disposed of in line with regulations.
Installing the New Boiler
The new unit is then fitted in place, connected to your gas supply, central heating system, and any hot water cylinders if you’ve chosen a system boiler. A new flue will also be installed through an external wall or roof with modern heating controls, such as smart thermostats, also being set up if required.
Testing, Commissioning, and First Fire-Up
To make sure that your boiler is working to its best ability, once connected, the engineer will run a number of safety and performance checks. This includes firing up the boiler, testing water pressure and ensuring radiators and hot taps heat correctly.
Flushing the Central Heating System
Following manufacturers guidelines, the engineer will flush the central heating system radiators and pipeworks to remove any sludge and debris that may have collected over the years. This ensures that the water moving around the system is clean and won’t cause any damage by blocking pipes or parts in the boiler. Chemicals will be added to help clean it out and a magnetic filter will be fitted to the system to ensure that any debris created after the boiler install is collected before entering the boiler. Most boiler manufactures require these filters to be fitted with every new boiler install.
Demonstrating How to Use the New System
Kerry Maintenance always provides a complete service, that’s why our engineers are there to show you how everything works. From adjusting the thermostat to topping up system pressure, you’ll receive a clear demonstration of your boiler’s controls and can ask any questions so that you’re confident in managing your heating and hot water once the engineer has left.
Timeframe and Disruption
Every job is different from one to the next, depending on a range of circumstances. Here are some items to consider with your boiler installation.
- If you’re having a straight swap of replacing an old combi boiler with a new combi boiler, this usually takes around two days.
- Sometimes there may be more complex jobs, such as moving the boiler, upgrading pipework, or converting from conventional boilers, which can take about a week.
- While we aim for minimal disruption, you may experience some disruption with noise, dust and the movement of equipment in your home. Don’t worry, though, you can trust that we’ll put everything back in its place and clean up before we leave.
Costs and Considerations
There is a range of variables to look at when discovering how much your boiler installation is going to cost.
- Boiler type: If you’re looking for an affordable choice, a simple combination boiler is a popular option. Compared to a system boiler or conventional boiler, which may cost more as they require a hot water cylinder or water storage tank.
- How complex the job is: Factors such as relocating a boiler, upgrading old pipework, or fitting additional radiators will bump up the price.
- Hidden costs: When requesting a quote, ask if the total price includes the removal of the old boiler, disposal of tanks and new heating controls.
- Efficiency pays off: At first, it may seem that a new energy-efficient boiler is a big upfront expense, but think of the long-term savings you’ll make with your energy bills. It’s a smart investment to make, and you’ll also have warranties to protect your purchase for future years.
After Installation
As soon as your new boiler has been fitted, there are some final steps that need to be completed.
- Paperwork and certification: Upon installation, you’ll receive warranty documents, building regulations certificate, and a Gas Safe certificate for your installation. This gives you proof that the work has been carried out safely.
- Servicing requirements: Annual servicing is essential to keep your boiler running efficiently and maintain your warranty. You will be added to our database and we will send you a reminder when your boiler is due its first service.
- Kerry Maintenance’s aftercare: Giving you the full package, as well as installation, we also provide servicing, repairs and advice throughout your boiler’s entire lifespan.
FAQs
How long does installation usually take?
A straightforward swap (old combi to new combi) usually takes two days. More complex projects may take a week.
Will my radiators need replacing?
Not always. Your engineer will test your central heating system. Sometimes a radiator upgrade is recommended for maximum efficiency. But we will always flush the system when we put in a new boiler.
Do installers need loft or external access?
Yes, if you have a system boiler with a cylinder or a conventional boiler with tanks in the loft, access is required. External walls are also needed for fitting the flue.
What happens if there’s an issue afterwards?
We’re always there to provide ongoing support when you need it. Simply get in touch and we’ll resolve any concerns you have quickly. Your new boiler will be covered by the manufactures warranty, which is usually around 10 years for the boilers we install.
When looking to invest in a new boiler installation, it can seem daunting and expensive, but with the right team, it’s a stress-free experience that is straightforward and will save you money in the long run. Kerry Maintenance is there to help you feel confident and prepared about the installation process, from choosing the right type of boiler to what happens when your engineer arrives.
Specialists in expert boiler fitting with minimal disruption, you can trust our reliable reputation, helping hundreds of clients across the area. Whether you need a combi boiler, system boiler, or conventional boiler, with our Gas Safe-registered services, we’ll guide you seamlessly through the process.
When it’s time to upgrade to an energy-efficient boiler, contact Kerry Maintenance for a free survey and no-obligation quote.
