Replacing your boiler is a major investment that can improve your home’s efficiency, lower your energy bills, and ensure reliable heating for years to come. However, many homeowners make mistakes during the process that can lead to unnecessary costs, inefficiencies, or even safety hazards.
At Horsforth Heating Solutions, we’ve seen first-hand how avoiding these common pitfalls can save time, money, and stress. In this guide, we’ll highlight seven common mistakes to avoid when replacing your boiler and how to ensure a smooth, hassle-free installation.
1. Choosing the Wrong Boiler Size
One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is installing a boiler that is either too small or too large for their home.
🔹 An undersized boiler will struggle to meet your heating and hot water demands, leading to inconsistent temperatures and higher energy usage as it works overtime.
🔹 An oversized boiler will waste energy and money by producing more heat than your home actually needs.
✅ Solution: A professional heating engineer will assess your home’s size, number of radiators, and hot water demand to recommend the right boiler size.
2. Not Checking Boiler Efficiency Ratings
Older boilers tend to have lower efficiency ratings, which means they waste a significant amount of energy. When replacing your boiler, it’s essential to choose a modern, A-rated condensing boiler with at least 90% efficiency.
✅ Solution: Look for boilers that are recommended by the Energy Saving Trust, as these models will help you reduce energy bills while lowering your carbon footprint.
3. Ignoring Boiler Placement
Many homeowners simply install a new boiler in the same location as the old one without considering whether it’s the best spot. Poor placement can lead to:
❌ Increased noise disruption in living areas or bedrooms.
❌ Higher installation costs if the boiler is in a difficult-to-access location.
❌ Inefficient heating if pipe runs are too long.
✅ Solution: Consider placing the boiler in a kitchen cupboard, utility room, or loft to free up space while ensuring easy maintenance access. A heating engineer can advise on the best location.
4. Failing to Upgrade the Central Heating System
A new boiler can only be as efficient as the system it’s connected to. If your radiators, pipework, or thermostat are outdated, your heating system may still underperform.
✅ Solution:
🔹 Power flushing your system before installing a new boiler can remove sludge and improve efficiency.
🔹 Upgrading to modern thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs) allows better control of heat distribution.
🔹 Installing a smart thermostat can optimise heating schedules and improve energy savings.
5. Overlooking Manufacturer Warranties
Many homeowners don’t check the warranty terms before purchasing a new boiler. Some warranties require annual servicing by a Gas Safe registered engineer to remain valid.
✅ Solution: Choose a boiler with a long manufacturer warranty (up to 10 years) and schedule regular servicing to keep it in good working order.
6. Hiring an Unqualified Installer
Boiler installation is a complex job that should only be carried out by a Gas Safe registered engineer. Choosing an unqualified installer can lead to:
❌ Safety risks, such as gas leaks and carbon monoxide poisoning.
❌ An incorrectly fitted system that reduces efficiency and performance.
❌ Voided warranties and failure to meet building regulations.
✅ Solution: Always check that your heating engineer is Gas Safe registered before booking an installation. At Horsforth Heating Solutions, all our engineers are fully qualified to ensure a safe and compliant installation.
7. Focusing Only on Price, Not Quality
While it’s natural to look for the best deal, choosing the cheapest option isn’t always the best decision. A lower-cost boiler or installation may mean:
❌ Reduced efficiency and higher long-term running costs.
❌ A shorter lifespan and increased risk of breakdowns.
❌ Poor installation quality, leading to future issues.
✅ Solution: Balance cost with quality. Investing in a high-efficiency boiler and professional installation will save money in the long run.
Get Expert Boiler Installation in Leeds
Avoiding these common mistakes will help you get the most out of your new boiler in terms of performance, efficiency, and longevity. If you’re planning a boiler installation in Leeds are the surrounding areas, Horsforth Heating Solutions can provide expert advice, high-quality installation, and competitive pricing. Contact us today for a free consultation and ensure your home stays warm and energy-efficient all year round!
