Moving a boiler typically costs between £500 and £1,500, which is an important factor to consider when assessing the cost of moving a boiler.
Several other factors influence this range, including labour, the type of boiler, and the distance it needs to be moved. To help you get a better idea, we’ll break down these costs and what you need to consider for your own boiler relocation.
How Much Does It Cost To Move a Boiler?
The costs of moving a boiler can vary widely, typically ranging between £500 and £950. Overall, the boiler cost can be anywhere from £400 to £1,000 based on several factors.
Several elements contribute to these costs, including labour, extra pipework, and materials. For more complex jobs, such as moving a conventional boiler from upstairs to downstairs, the cost can reach up to £1,000. In some cases, the maximum cost can hit £1,500.
Being aware of these elements allows for better budgeting and helps avoid unexpected expenses.
For residents in Newcastle and the surrounding areas in the North East looking to move their heating systems, Future Heat are experts at both installing and relocating boilers and are on hand to help. Request your free boiler installation quote today.
Factors Influencing Boiler Relocation Costs
Several variables affect the cost of relocating a boiler, including the type of boiler, the distance it needs to be moved, and the associated labour costs.
Understanding how each factor influences the cost equips you to make informed decisions and manage your budget more effectively.
Type of Boiler
The type of boiler significantly impacts relocation costs. Combi boilers, which combine electricity and gas to heat water, are generally the easiest and least expensive to move due to their compact size.
System and conventional boilers require additional components, such as hot water cylinders and expansion tanks, making them typically more expensive to relocate. Gas boilers are another option to consider in this context.
If you’re weighing up your options, it’s worth comparing the system and combi boilers to understand which suits your home and future upgrades best.
Relocating heavier boilers, such as oil boilers, often requires multiple workers, raising labour costs. Older boilers may also take longer to move, further increasing expenses.
Distance Moved
The distance moved directly impacts the overall cost. Greater distances typically incur higher costs due to the additional labour and materials needed for longer pipe runs.
For instance, moving a boiler from upstairs to downstairs can cost around £1,000, while relocating it to a loft or another part of the house can cost up to £2,000 or more due to increased complexity and materials.
Labour Costs
Labour costs significantly contribute to the overall expense. Typical labour costs range from £300 to £400 per day, depending on the location and company, with plumbers charging between £40 – £60 per hour, with the average cost being a key factor in budgeting.
Total labour costs can vary widely based on local market rates and job specifics. More complex tasks, like removing and re-routing pipework, can result in higher costs.
Specific Location Costs
Costs also vary depending on the new location within your home, as different areas present unique challenges and considerations, including the cost involved.
In the following subsections, we’ll explore the costs associated with moving a boiler to the loft, utility room, and garage.
Moving a Boiler to the Loft
Moving a boiler to the loft can be both challenging and expensive. Relocating a conventional boiler to the loft typically costs between £800 and £2,000, while moving a combi boiler is generally cheaper due to its single-unit design. However, loft relocations come with unique challenges like access issues and safety considerations.
Vertical flue installations may be necessary, adding complexity and cost. The loft must be easily accessible, well-lit, and have safe concrete or tiled floors. Potential leaks in the loft can damage lower floors, emphasising the need for precautions.
Moving a Boiler to the Utility Room
Relocating a boiler to the utility room can be cost-effective, often due to reduced pipework distances. Ensure ample space and sufficient support for hot water. Consulting a professional boiler engineer is pivotal for safe relocation.
Benefits of relocating a boiler to the utility room include freeing up space, reducing noise, improving aesthetics, enhancing maintenance accessibility, and increasing hot water speed with an electrical appliance.
Moving a Boiler to the Garage
Relocating a boiler to the garage presents temperature-related challenges. Cold temperatures in garages can cause freezing water in pipes, especially during winter.
To mitigate this risk, ensure the boiler has built-in frost protection and consider the garage environment’s impact on efficiency and longevity.
Additional Costs to Consider
Additional expenses beyond basic relocation costs include new pipework, flue installation, and upgrading heating controls and thermostats, as well as additional pipework.
Being aware of these additional expenses enables better budgeting and helps avoid unexpected surprises.
New Pipework and Fittings
New pipework is the primary cost associated with moving a boiler. If the boiler remains in the same room, costs are minimal, but can be significant if relocated. Labour costs for installation often include additional tasks like lifting flooring for new pipework.
Roofing or scaffolding services may be needed for vertical flue installations, adding to labour costs. Horizontal flue installations also incur additional expenses, further increasing existing pipework costs.
The estimated cost per meter for an extension flue pipe is £75 – £125 for flue extensions.
Flue Installation
Flue extension installation costs between £75 and £125 per meter. The type of flue installation, whether vertical or horizontal, significantly impacts the overall cost.
Proper flue installation ensures the safe and efficient operation of the relocated flue system boiler flue.
Heating Controls and Thermostat
Relocating or upgrading heating controls and thermostats can also increase overall costs. Wireless thermostats enable remote management of the central heating system, enhancing energy efficiency. The complexity of moving a boiler may require relocating heating controls, significantly increasing labour costs.
Basic thermostats from well-known brands cost around £30, impacting the overall relocation budget. Upgrading to modern controls can offer long-term savings and improved functionality.
Regulations and Safety Considerations
Compliance with all relevant regulations and safety considerations is necessary when relocating a boiler. Only a Gas Safe registered engineer is legally permitted to move or repair a gas boiler. Building regulations, including provisions for ventilation and access, must be adhered to.
The HSE’s Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998 must be followed during relocation in accordance with safety regulations. Proper positioning involves ensuring easy access, safe flooring, and adequate lighting.
Consulting a qualified engineer and heating engineer ensures compliance with all regulations and the safe and efficient operation of the relocated boiler.
How Long Does It Take To Move a Boiler?
The time required to move a boiler varies based on job complexity. Typically, relocation takes about one and a half to two days, but more complex boiler moves can take around 2 to 4 days.
Time requirements can increase based on the distance to the new location and necessary pipework modifications. Understanding the time frame helps you plan effectively and minimise disruption to your daily routine.
Is It Worth Moving Your Boiler?
Deciding whether to move your boiler involves weighing the benefits against the costs. Homeowners often consider relocation due to issues like noise disturbances or freezing pipes. If the boiler is an old or new boiler, or is due for replacement soon, installing a new one during relocation may be more cost-effective.
This is especially true if you’re considering upgrading from a regular to a system boiler, which can offer better efficiency and performance in modern homes.
While moving a boiler usually doesn’t impact property value, a new installation may increase it. Consider factors like the boiler’s age, warranty, and compliance with regulations before deciding. Consulting a professional engineer can provide valuable insights and help you make an informed choice.
Getting Quotes from Gas Safe Registered Engineers
Hiring a Gas Safe registered engineer ensures safety and compliance. Collecting at least three quotes from trusted plumbers helps you get a range of prices and choose the best option.
It’s possible to obtain a fixed-price quote for a new boiler and relocation online in under 20 seconds. Comparing quotes ensures you get the best price for boiler moving services and helps you budget effectively. If you’re comparing brands, don’t miss our head-to-head review of Alpha vs Worcester Bosch boilers to see which might suit your budget and needs best.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes, but moving a boiler in a listed building or conservation area often requires additional permissions from your local planning authority. This can also increase the overall cost and timeframe of the move.
Moving a boiler can void your manufacturer’s warranty if it’s not done by a Gas Safe registered engineer. It may also require notification to your home insurance provider, especially if structural work is involved.
Yes, moving a boiler during major renovations is usually cheaper because the required plumbing, electrical, and structural work is often already underway, reducing labour duplication.
Possibly. If the existing pipework is old or incompatible with the new layout, it may need to be updated. Some radiators may also require rebalancing or replacing to suit the new system configuration.
Yes. Combi boilers are typically more compact and have fewer components like hot water cylinders or tanks, making them easier and cheaper to relocate.
Our Verdict
Relocating a boiler involves various costs and considerations, from the type of boiler and distance moved to labour costs and additional expenses. Understanding these factors can help you plan and budget effectively.
Whether you’re moving a boiler to a different location within your home or considering a new boiler installation, this guide provides valuable insights to help you make informed decisions. By hiring a Gas Safe registered engineer and adhering to all relevant regulations, you can ensure a safe and efficient boiler relocation.
Myles Robinson is a seasoned expert in the boiler and home improvement industry, with over a decade of experience. He is deeply committed to environmental sustainability, actively promoting energy-efficient heating solutions to help households reduce their carbon footprint. By combining industry expertise with a dedication to environmental responsibility, Myles continues to lead efforts in transforming home heating practices towards a more sustainable future.
