Where is the Best Place for a New Boiler?

The introduction of fanned flued boilers and no-compartment ventilation allows for more versatility in boiler placement. Therefore, the question of “where is the best boiler position?” can be difficult to answer definitively. Of course, any installer will tell you, every job is different. However, there are a few things to consider if you want to get the best place for your boiler.  The main factors that affect installations are governed by the existing services, exhaust, budget and customer preference. There is definitely no one size fits all. So, let’s try and break this down a bit.  

Things to Consider When Relocating a Boiler

1. Your budget

Boiler changes can be tied in with other work being done within the house; such as extensions or conversions. If you would like your boiler relocated, you need to consider the ease of relocating services and how easy the job may be. Moving a boiler can also mean that the boiler installation costs from the boiler installer will increase.

2. Relocation placement

If it is a completely new install, then it may still be governed by the services and your preference. However, if you have access to an exterior wall that is relatively close to a drain, it might be a perfect place. You’ll also need to consider if your boiler placement is changing rooms the impact this could have on home décor. You should also consider how accessible your boiler will be as it will need to have a regular boiler service by a heating engineer. This means the new location will need to have good access. It will also need to comply with building regulations, so this also needs to be factored into the installation process.

3. Upgrading a boiler

You may also be considering upgrading your old boiler from a system boiler to a combi-boiler or even changing fuel type. There are many different types of boilers and sizes, and you should ensure that your boiler installer picks the right one when getting a boiler quote. Many homes have the wrong size boiler fitted for their requirements. All these things may need to be considered when installing a new boiler for your central heating system. This too, could impact your budget. Remember, not only will you have the cost of the boiler replacement, but you will also need to factor in any changes to pipes and equipment you will need for the boiler.

4. Gas, water and electric

If you are planning on replacing the boiler then you may want to consider the placement of gas, water, and electric pipes/lines. You may need a drain if the boiler is pre-condensing also. If you're installing a gas boiler then you will need to ensure that a gas safe engineer is employed to do the job. Only gas engineers can install a new combi boiler or equivalent if it uses gas.

5. Repair to external walls

If it is fanned flued, then you may want to re-use the existing hole, as it may not be within the budget to create a new one. If you need to repair an existing hole in the exterior wall, this should be factored into your budget as it may require an additional tradesperson.

6. Reconnecting the central heating system

You will also need to consider how you are going to connect it with the rest of your heating system, pipework and radiators. If the placement is very different to the original, how will this impact the rest of the system? Big moves will often increase the budget.  

Boilers in the Bathroom, Kitchen or Utility rooms

In older houses, you might find the boiler in the airing cupboard. However, in many modern installations, people choose to put their boilers in a kitchen cupboard. This makes a lot of sense as services are already hooked up. They tend to be at the back of the property and can be stored easily in a cupboard out of sight. This is also the case with bathroom installations and even utility rooms. Something to keep in mind is that your boiler will need servicing once a year, and therefore access is needed for an engineer. Boilers are quieter, smaller, and more versatile than ever before. However, they always need a good gas supply, condense drain, a filter and lime scale protector. Although the flue positioning is not restrictive there are other things to consider making sure it’s in an optimum position to do its job.  

Boilers Need to be Close to the Gas Supply

Obviously, Gas Supply is a major factor that will affect where your boiler can go. Preferably, the closer to the gas supply the better. It can take a lot of effort and wasted energy to get that supply up into a loft or somewhere on a second floor. So, it’s best to keep it as close to the ground floor as possible. So, in summation “what is the best boiler position in the home?” can be answered in a few ways. However, we would suggest always speaking to a professional. It is best to gett their advice as they’ll be able to assess all the variables we’ve mentioned above. They will be able to suggest the most appropriate location. Good luck and happy plumbing.  

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