Introduction
Finding the right boiler for your home can be quite a daunting task, especially when you’re on a tight budget. Fear not! This blog post is tailored specifically to help homeowners and tenants navigate the world of affordable boilers without compromising on quality or performance.
We’ll dive into some of the best and most economical options available in the UK market, discuss where to find them, explore factors that affect their prices, and share tips on choosing the perfect one for your unique needs.
The Best And Most Affordable Boilers In The UK
Here’s a quick list of the cheapest boilers in the UK:
- The Glow-Worm Easicom 24kW Combi Boiler, priced at £730
- The Potterton Titanium 24kW Combi Boiler, priced around £799
- The Ferroli Modena HE 27C Combi Boiler, priced at £825
- Vokera Easi I-heat 25c Combi Boiler, priced from £645
- Main Eco Compact 18kW Heat Only Boiler, priced around £870
- The Ideal Exclusive2 24kW Combi Boiler, priced from £660
Glow-Worm Easicom 24kW Combi Boiler
This boiler is designed to be compact and easy to install, making it a good choice for smaller homes or apartments. It has an efficiency rating of 89.6% and is compatible with a range of Glow-Worm accessories. One potential downside is that it may not be powerful enough to meet the hot water demands of larger households.
Pros
- ErP A rated boiler for efficiency – helping to lower your energy bills
- Reliable performance
- Competitively priced
- FREE 5 years out the box guarantee
Cons
- May not be powerful enough for larger households
- May not be suitable for households with high hot water demand
- Limited range of features compared to some other boilers
Potterton Titanium 24kW Combi Boiler
This boiler is known for its reliability and ease of installation, with a compact design and simple controls. It has an efficiency rating of 88.6% and comes with a 7-year warranty, with an annual service every year. One potential downside is that it may not be suitable for larger homes or households with high hot water demand.
Pros:
- Reliable and easy to install
- Offers good energy efficiency
- Comes with a 2-year warranty (extendable to 7 or 10 years)
Cons:
- May not be suitable for larger households
- May not be the most energy-efficient option on the market
- Limited range of features compared to some other boilers
Ferroli Modena HE 27C Combi Boiler
This boiler is designed to be energy-efficient and reliable, with a stainless steel heat exchanger and a 5-year warranty. It has an efficiency rating of 88.2% and is compatible with a range of accessories, including wireless controls and weather compensation. One potential downside is that it may be more expensive than some other options on the market.
Pros:
- High-performance and energy-efficient
- Comes with a 5-year warranty
- Compatible with a range of accessories and controls
Cons:
- May be more expensive than some other options on the market
- May require more maintenance than other boilers
- Limited availability compared to some other brands
Vokera Easi I-heat 25c Combi boiler
Compact dimensions and low lift weight enable a flexible installation with the boiler able to be sited almost anywhere in the home. This boiler is designed to be compact and easy to install, with a range of features including a built-in filling loop and pressure gauge. It has an efficiency rating of 89.1% and is compatible with a range of Vokera accessories.
Pros:
- Easy installation.
- Extremely compact and versatile.
- 5 year parts and labour warranty.
Cons:
- Parts may be harder to source.
- May not be the most energy-efficient option on the market.
- Can be quite noisy
Main Eco Compact 18kW Heat Only Boiler
This boiler is known for its reliability and efficiency, with a compact lightweight design and simple controls. It has an efficiency rating of 89.2% and comes with a 5-year warranty. One potential downside is that it doesn’t provide continuous instant hot water.
What is a heat only boiler?
A heat-only boiler, also known as a regular or conventional boiler, works by heating water and distributing it throughout a home using a system of pumps, motorized valves, and tanks. The boiler heats the water in a hot water cylinder, which is then used to provide heat and hot water to the home.
This type of boiler is typically suited to larger homes or businesses that have a high demand for water and require multiple taps and showers to use hot water at the same time. Heat-only boilers are often used in conjunction with a cold water tank and a feed and expansion tank, which are usually located in the loft.
Ideal Exclusive2 24kW Combi Boiler
The Exclusive2 provides reliable control of the homes heating and hot water performance. This boiler is designed to be energy-efficient and reliable, with a range of features including a built-in frost protection and a 5-year warranty. It has an efficiency rating of 92% and is compatible with a range of Ideal accessories. On the downside, it may require more maintenance than other boilers due to its advanced features.
Pros:
- High-performance and energy-efficient
- Comes with a 5-year warranty
- Compatible with a range of accessories and controls
Cons:
- May require more maintenance than other boilers
- Advanced features may not be necessary for some households
Where To Find Economical Boilers
You can find economical boilers in a variety of places, from online suppliers to local plumbing and heating merchants, and even seasonal sales.
Online Suppliers
For homeowners and landlords seeking the cheapest boilers, online suppliers can be a great option. These retailers offer an extensive range of budget-friendly heating systems at reduced prices compared to physical stores.
Some popular online boiler merchants in the UK include City Plumbing, Plumb Arena and PlumbNation. Here, you’ll find combi boilers under £700 that pack efficiency and quality features such as the Main and Ideal models
It’s worth noting that buying boilers online may require more preparation than brick-and-mortar stores since you won’t have the benefit of seeing them physically or consulting with sales staff in person.
Local Plumbing And Heating Merchants
Local plumbing and heating merchants are a great option for finding affordable boilers. These merchants often have competitive prices and can offer advice on the best budget-friendly options for your home.
One of the advantages of buying from a local merchant is that they often provide after-sales support, including installation services and repairs when needed.
This personalised service can help you avoid paying extra fees to outside contractors.
It’s important to do your research before purchasing from any merchant to ensure they are reputable and offer quality products. Look for reviews online or ask friends and family for recommendations.
Seasonal Sales
Another way to find economical boilers is by keeping an eye out for seasonal sales. Many suppliers offer discounts during certain times of the year, such as Black Friday or end-of-season clearance events.
These sales can sometimes save you hundreds of pounds on a new boiler purchase. It’s important to research ahead of time and compare prices from different suppliers to ensure that you’re getting the best deal possible.
Also, keep in mind that popular brands may sell out quickly during these sales, so it’s important to act fast if you find a good deal.
Factors That Affect Boiler Prices
There are several factors that can affect the price of a boiler, including the brand, warranty length, efficiency ratings, installation costs and fuel type.
Brand
The brand of a boiler can have a significant impact on its price. Some well-known names, such as Worcester Bosch and Vaillant, tend to be more expensive due to their reputation for quality and reliability.
However, there are also budget options available from lesser-known brands that offer good value for money without compromising on performance.
It’s worth noting that while some may opt for cheaper boiler brands to save money upfront, it’s important to weigh the overall cost over time. Cheaper boilers may use low-quality parts which could break down more often and result in higher repair costs or even require early replacement.
Warranty
One crucial factor to consider when looking for a budget-friendly boiler is the length and coverage of the warranty. A longer warranty may provide peace of mind knowing that any repairs or replacements needed will be covered at no extra cost.
For example, Potterton offers an impressive 7-year guarantee, making it one of the best value boilers currently on the market. The Glowworm Easicom also boasts a comprehensive five-year warranty, while Ideal’s combi gas boiler also comes with a 5-year warranty that can be extended in some cases if serviced annually by a Gas Safe registered installer.
Efficiency Ratings
One essential factor to consider when choosing a budget-friendly boiler is its efficiency rating. The higher the efficiency rating, the more cost-effective it will be in terms of energy bills and reducing carbon emissions.
For example, the Ideal Exclusive2 has a high-efficiency rate and comes with an A-rated condensing system. This system ensures that no heat goes to waste during operation, making it incredibly energy-efficient and eco-friendly.
Similarly, Main Eco Compact model also boasts an impressive AFUE efficiency rating while offering excellent value for money.
Installation Costs
The installation cost of a boiler is an additional expense to consider when buying one, and it can vary depending on the complexity of the job. The price usually ranges from £500 to £1,500, but some installations may go up to £3,000 for more extensive works.
Before installing your new budget-friendly boiler, ask your installer if they include any extras in their quote such as fitting a new thermostat or powerflushing the system.
These services can add up costs but offer benefits such as better fuel efficiency and reduced heating bills in the long run.
Type Of Fuel
The type of fuel your boiler uses can have a significant impact on its price. Coal is the cheapest option for heating homes in the UK, according to the Energy Saving Trust.
However, it’s not always the most environmentally friendly or efficient choice. Gas and oil are popular options, with gas being generally cheaper than oil.
It’s important to consider both the initial cost and ongoing maintenance costs when selecting a fuel source for your boiler. Additionally, some fuels may not be available in all areas or may require extra permits or approvals for installation.
How To Choose The Right Cheapest Boiler For You
Assess your heating and hot water requirements, set a budget, research the specifications of each boiler, and hire a qualified installer to ensure you make an informed decision when choosing the perfect low-cost boiler for your home.
Assess Your Heating And Hot Water Requirements
To choose the right cheapest boiler, you need to assess your heating and hot water requirements. Consider factors such as the size of your home or property, its insulation levels, and how many people will be using these utilities.
If you have a large family or live in a larger property with high heating demands, a more powerful boiler may be necessary.
You should also think about whether you want your hot water supplied on demand through an instantaneous combi boiler or stored in cylinders for use when needed. Instantaneous boilers are ideal for smaller homes that do not require constant access to hot water while storage-based systems are better suited for households where multiple occupants require regular access to hot water throughout the day.
Set A Budget
Before choosing a budget-friendly boiler, it’s important to assess your heating and hot water requirements and set a suitable budget. This will ensure that you pick an option that meets your needs without breaking the bank.
The cost of boilers can vary significantly depending on brand, warranty length, installation costs, fuel type and efficiency ratings.
For example, the Alpha E-Tec is considered one of the best value for money combi boilers available in the UK market today. Although its upfront cost may be slightly higher than other options, its 10-year warranty and award-winning build quality make it a more cost-effective investment over time.
Research The Specifications Of Each Boiler
Before making a decision on which boiler to purchase, it’s important to research the specifications of each option. Look for key features such as energy efficiency ratings, warranty length, and installation requirements to determine which boiler is best suited for your home’s needs.
For example, the Ideal boiler boasts an energy efficiency rating of up to 92% and a low NOx emissions output. Similarly, the Main Eco compact combi gas boiler offers a compact size suitable for smaller homes with limited space.
Take note that buying a budget boiler may not always be cost-effective in the long run due to potential issues with cheap parts or breakdowns.
Hire A Qualified Installer
To ensure your budget-friendly boiler is installed correctly and safely, it’s essential to hire a qualified installer. Cutting corners by trying to install the boiler yourself or hiring an unqualified person can end up costing you more in the long run through potential damages or safety hazards.
Look for an installer who is Gas Safe registered, as this ensures they are legally qualified to work on gas appliances like boilers.
When estimating the cost of a new boiler, don’t forget to factor in installation costs. A well-installed budget boiler that uses high-quality parts can save you money on repairs and energy bills over time compared to one with low-quality parts that has been poorly installed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) And Conclusion
In conclusion, finding the cheapest boiler for your home requires research and careful consideration. While budget boilers may seem like a good option, it’s important to look beyond the price tag and consider factors such as warranty length, efficiency ratings, installation costs, and fuel type.
If you’re on a tight budget, there are affordable options available from reputable brands such as Glowworm, Ideal, Main and Potterton
Remember that the cheapest boiler does not always mean it’s the best or most cost-effective solution in the long run. Take time to weigh all the factors involved when selecting a new boiler for your home.
FAQs:
1. Are cheaper boilers reliable and long-lasting?
Cheaper boilers can be just as reliable and long-lasting as more expensive models, depending on the quality of the components used in their construction. It’s important to choose a reputable brand with good reviews when shopping for low-cost options.
2. What types of low-cost boilers are available?
There are several types of cheap boilers available on the market, including combi-boilers, system boilers, and conventional (regular) boilers. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to consider your specific needs before making a purchase.
3. How can I find the best deals on budget-friendly boiler installations?
To find great deals on affordable boiler installations, start by comparing prices from multiple suppliers or installers in your area. Look for special promotions or discounts that may be available at certain times of year or through specific providers.
4. Can I still get warranty coverage with a cheap boiler purchase?
Yes – many low-cost boiler manufacturers offer warranties that cover parts and labour costs for several years after installation. Be sure to read the terms and conditions carefully before purchasing any new appliance to ensure you understand what is covered under warranty protection.