Finding an appropriate boiler technician for the replacement job might seem a bit tricky, but there are some basic steps you can go through. From asking your neighbours to asking potential plumbers about their warranty offering, here’s where to start with your search.
Ask your neighbours
One of the best places to start when looking for a boiler technician is to ask around the neighbourhood for recommendations. There’s a good chance that there’s a strong local company that knows the area and will be available and convenient to book for future check-ups and services. This shouldn’t be the entirety of your search, but it can absolutely supplement what you might find by looking online.
Look on trade websites
Another great place to look is on trade websites. You’ll be able to find lists of trusted plumbers and boiler technicians such as Able Plumbers, with an overview of what’s available in your local area. This can supplement your other forms of research, with a broader picture of what it is that you’re working with.
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Check the Gas Safe Register
Once you’ve got a list of potential options, it’s important to check that their technicians are listed on the Gas Safe Register. This is the register that shows whether plumbers in this country are fully certified to work on various systems in a safe and reliable manner. It’s an easy one-step way of conducting due diligence and can help to avoid future issues.
Get quotes
Boiler installation isn’t a simple or cheap job, and it’s important that you get some quotes before going with an option. It can cost anywhere between around £1500 and £5000, potentially even more in some cases. Get quotes from at least a few different plumbers, so that you can work out if any of them are unreasonably high before choosing one.
Ask about warranties
Lastly, it’s important that the technician you end up using can provide you with some kind of warranty. Whether that’s from the plumbing service themselves or from the manufacturer of the boiler, make sure that you’ll be covered in the event that there are any defaults later on.
Some manufacturers only provide warranties if the boiler is installed by specific kinds of plumbers with certain credentials. Check all of this with the company you’re considering using before you commit - you don’t want to end up with a big problem further down the line that isn’t covered.
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Consider the Energy Efficiency of New Boilers
When choosing a replacement boiler, it’s essential to think about energy efficiency. Newer models are designed to be much more efficient than older systems, which can lead to significant savings on your energy bills over time. Look for boilers with high energy efficiency ratings, and ask your technician about options that are certified under schemes such as the Energy Star in the UK.
Energy-efficient boilers reduce your environmental footprint, helping you cut down on carbon emissions. Some energy providers even offer incentives or grants for homeowners who upgrade to eco-friendly heating systems, so it’s worth checking if there are any schemes available in your area that could lower your upfront cost.
Review the Boiler's Size and Capacity
An often-overlooked aspect of boiler replacement is choosing the correct size and capacity for your home. A boiler that’s too small may struggle to keep up with heating demands, while one that’s too large can be inefficient and unnecessarily expensive. Speak with your technician to determine the best size for your property based on factors like the number of rooms, insulation quality, and your household’s daily hot water usage.
Many boiler manufacturers offer a range of sizes to suit different types of homes, from compact models for small apartments to larger systems that can handle bigger properties. Ensuring that your new boiler is appropriately sized can make a substantial difference in its performance and lifespan.
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Research Customer Reviews and Ratings
Once you have a shortlist of technicians or companies, it’s wise to look up customer reviews and ratings. Many people leave feedback about their experiences on platforms like Trustpilot, Google Reviews, and trade websites. These reviews can provide valuable insights into the reliability, professionalism, and quality of work you can expect from each service provider.
Focus on reviews that mention the installation process, punctuality, and post-installation service. Some companies might appear great on paper but may lack punctuality or good customer service, which could lead to complications. A well-reviewed technician with a proven track record of quality service will likely make the entire process much smoother.
Plan for Regular Maintenance
Finally, keep in mind that even the best boiler will require regular maintenance to continue running efficiently. Most boiler manufacturers recommend an annual service to check for any potential issues, clean essential components, and ensure everything is working as it should. Discuss maintenance packages with your chosen technician, as many offer discounted service plans for customers who commit to annual servicing.
Staying on top of regular maintenance will help you avoid breakdowns during colder months and can extend the life of your new boiler. Some insurance policies even mandate annual servicing to keep your warranty valid, so this is an essential step in protecting your investment.
Getting your boiler replaced can be a bit of a hassle, but finding the right boiler technician can make things a whole lot easier. It’s absolutely worth taking the time to get it right - you’ll be saving yourself money and problems in the future by doing so.
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