Boiler Installations, Essex

In most cases a straightforward boiler installation can be completed within a day. More complex installations involving pipework alterations or system upgrades may take slightly longer.

The required certification depends on the type of system being installed:

Gas boiler — the engineer must be Gas Safe registered
LPG boiler — the engineer must be Gas Safe registered with the LPG competency on their licence
Oil boiler — the engineer must be OFTEC registered
Electric boiler — the engineer must be a NICEIC approved contractor
Warm air heating system — the engineer must be Gas Safe registered

All of our engineers hold the correct certifications for every type of system we install, so you can book with complete confidence.

There are a few important things to be aware of before and during a boiler installation:

• Use a registered engineer — always check the engineer is Gas Safe, OFTEC, or NICEIC registered depending on the system type. Never let an unregistered engineer carry out the work.
• Get everything in writing — make sure you have a written quote before work begins, including the boiler model, warranty terms and what is included in the installation.
• Check the warranty — some manufacturers require the boiler to be registered within a set number of days of installation to activate the full warranty. Make sure this is done.
• Ensure you receive certification — a legitimate installation should always come with a certificate of installation. Do not accept work without one.
• Check the boiler location — if you are moving your boiler to a new location, make sure your engineer assesses whether the new position is suitable and compliant with current regulations.
• Ask about your controls — make sure you understand how to use your new boiler, thermostat and any smart controls before the engineer leaves.
• Check the flue — the flue must be correctly positioned and comply with current building regulations. Your engineer should confirm this before completing the job.

The best heating system for your home depends on your property, location and budget. Here is a quick guide to help you decide:

• Gas boiler — the most popular choice for UK homes. If you are connected to the mains gas network, a gas boiler is generally the most cost-effective and efficient option. Ideal for most property types and sizes.
• LPG boiler — if your property is not connected to the mains gas network, an LPG boiler gives you all the benefits of gas central heating using a storage tank on your property. A great option for rural and off-grid homes.
• Oil boiler — another excellent option for off-grid properties. Oil boilers are reliable, efficient and well suited to larger rural homes with higher heating demands. You will need space for an oil storage tank.
• Electric boiler — ideal for smaller properties, flats and homes without a gas supply. Electric boilers are 100% efficient at point of use, require minimal maintenance and do not need a flue. Running costs can be higher than gas but can be reduced with solar panels or an economy tariff.
• Warm air heating — a fast and cost-effective solution, particularly suited to properties that already have existing ductwork in place. Warm air systems heat your home quickly without the need for radiators or pipework and are ideal for homes looking for a responsive, space-saving heating solution.

If you are unsure which system is right for your home, our engineers are happy to assess your property and advise on the best option for your needs and budget.

Older boilers typically have an efficiency rating of around 70 to 80%. Modern A-rated boilers operate at 90% efficiency or above, meaning you could save significantly on your energy bills by upgrading. Key signs of an inefficient boiler include:

• Higher than usual energy bills
• The boiler taking longer to heat your home
• Uneven heat distribution across radiators
• A yellow or orange flame instead of a crisp blue flame

Electric boilers have a number of advantages that make them a great choice for certain properties:

• 100% efficient at point of use, no energy is wasted
• No flue or gas supply required
• Quieter than gas or oil boilers
• Lower maintenance costs with fewer moving parts
• Ideal for flats, smaller properties and smoke controlled areas
• Can be combined with solar panels to reduce running costs
• Compact and easy to install in smaller spaces
• No risk of carbon monoxide from combustion

It depends on the size of your property and your hot water demand:

• Small home or flat with one bathroom — combi boiler
• Medium to large home with two or more bathrooms — system boiler
• Older property with existing traditional system — heat only boiler

Warm air heating systems have a number of advantages over traditional wet central heating systems:

• Heats up significantly faster than radiators
• No pipework or radiators required throughout the property
• Lower installation costs compared to a full wet central heating system
• Compact unit takes up very little space
• Modern systems such as the Johnson & Starley Aquair can provide hot water as well as heating
• Ideal for properties that already have existing ductwork in place
• Responsive and easy to control