4 Main Factors Determining Boiler Installation Cost

Boilers are a great alternative to other heating systems. For example, boilers are relatively quiet, energy-efficient, and less polluting than other heating technologies. Many people worry about boiler installation costs, but the costs aren't automatically high—they vary greatly. Below are factors that determine how much you need to install a boiler.

1. Equipment and Material Cost

The boiler unit and associated materials you need to install it significantly affect the installation cost. For example, you need:

• The boiler unit
• Return and feeder pipes
• Flue pipe

The boiler unit is the major price component. Below are the unit aspects that affect the overall price.

Boiler Type

Boilers are available in different types. For example, some circulate hot water while others circulate steam. Some boilers are also more efficient than others. The boiler type affects price; for example, high-efficiency boilers (like the condensing types with two heat exchangers) often cost more than standard-efficiency ones.

Heating Output

A boiler's heating output (or, more commonly, size) of a boiler is the heat energy it can produce at any time. Boiler cost increases with heating output. Matching your house's heating demands to the boiler's output is crucial. Otherwise, you might undersize the boiler and not get enough heat or oversize it and waste energy.

Energy Source

Boilers can run on energy sources like oil, natural gas, and electricity. The energy source affects the boiler's configuration and hence price. For example, electric boilers attract lower upfront costs than gas boilers in most places. The simplicity of electric boilers contributes to the price discrepancy.

Brand

Brand is a factor for boiler unit cost, just like for other manufactured goods. Brands marketed and perceived as premium attract relatively higher prices.

2. Labor Charges

The second cost component is the contractor's labor charges. These charges depend on the following factors.

Installation Location

The best boiler location allows efficient heating and keeps your house safe. The ideal location should also be accessible and easy to work on. Unfortunately, your home's size, configuration, and use might force you to install the unit in a complex area.

Installing boilers in such places increase installation cost. For example, confined areas complicate installation processes, isolated areas increase accessory connection fees, and indoor areas increase venting costs.

Existing Infrastructure

A boiler does not work in isolation—it needs different accessories. For example, a typical boiler needs:

• Water connections
• Fuel or energy connections
• Venting

The existing infrastructure determines how available the accessories are. For example, replacing a boiler with a similar one is relatively easy since the needed infrastructure is already in place. However, you must budget for infrastructural upgrades or accessories installations when installing a new boiler or changing the type.

Location

The local economy and business climate affect the installation cost. For example, businesses that incur high running costs must set higher labor rates than those with low running costs.

3. Government Fees

Government demands will also affect your boiler installation cost. For example, the government might demand payment for:

• A permit application to allow you to start the boiler installation process
• An inspection fee to confirm that the installation is code-compliant
• Connection fees for relevant utilities if your home lacks such

Luckily, the government charges usually amount to a small percentage of the overall cost. In addition, the charges vary by location and zoning. Most heating contractors will help you navigate the relevant legal requirements.

4. Discounts

Lastly, you may be lucky to snag discounts that lower your boiler installation cost. For example, some governments, organizations, or utility companies offer rebates for high-efficiency heating systems, including boilers. Give yourself ample time to research such incentives and enjoy the ones you qualify for.

Continental Plumbers has nearly four decades of plumbing experience, including boiler installation. Contact us to install an efficient and affordable boiler as soon as possible. Let us help you keep your house warm and cozy during the cold season.