Moving a boiler: A guide to costs, timeframes & what you need to know

Thinking about moving your boiler? Whether it’s to free up space, reduce noise, or improve your home’s layout, relocating a boiler can make a big difference. This quick guide covers everything you need to know - from costs and timeframes to helping you consider the right place for your boiler.

By the end of this guide, you'll have a better idea of things to consider before moving your boiler and if it's the right thing to do for your home. Let's dive in!

Reasons to move your boiler

Moving your boiler could be a great opportunity to optimise your home's layout and improve its efficiency. Here are some compelling reasons to consider this change:

Renovations and extensions: if you're renovating or extending your home, relocating your boiler could free up valuable room that you can turn into something you’ve always wanted - maybe a new cupboard for extra storage, or even a pantry.
Freeing up space: boilers can be installed in less noticeable locations, such as airing cupboards or garages, creating extra space for you. This is especially great for smaller homes, where every little bit of space makes a big difference.
Efficiency improvements: modern boilers are much more efficient than older models. Relocating your boiler is a great chance to upgrade to a more energy efficient system, helping you save on energy bills and enjoy a more comfortable home. For example, if you live in a semi-detached house, upgrading to an efficient boiler can save you up to £320⁽¹⁾ per year on your heating bills.
Making your home look better: boilers aren’t always the nicest to look at, especially if they’re in a spot like the kitchen where they’re easy to see. Moving the boiler into a cupboard or up into the loft can help your home look tidier and more stylish.
Noisy boiler: boilers can be noisy, particularly older models. If your boiler is near a bedroom or living space, moving it can reduce noise disruption.

Cost of moving a boiler

Moving a boiler has a few costs involved. Let's break it down for you:

Labour: this covers the work done by professionals. The cost depends on how complicated the move is and the local rates for labour in your area.
Pipework and fittings: if pipes need to be extended or rerouted to reach the new location, the cost will vary based on how far the pipes need to go and the materials used.
Boiler flue: a boiler flue is a pipe that lets out the smoke from the boiler to the outside. If a new flue is required for the boiler, it will be an additional cost.
Flue extensions and bends: these help release waste gases from the boiler safely. Costs for this are usually charged per meter.
Magnetic filter: a magnetic filter helps keep the system clean by catching dirt. While not all boilers come with one, installing a magnetic filter can help protect the system and improve its efficiency.
Controls: depending on the type of boiler, you may need to upgrade or relocate the control system, which can affect the overall cost.

In total, moving a boiler can generally cost between £1,000 and £1,400⁽²⁾. If you're moving your boiler a short distance, like within the same room or along the same wall, it’ll usually cost less than £1,000⁽²⁾.

Keep in mind that the final price can vary depending on some important factors unique to your situation:

Distance between old and new location – longer distances may require more pipework and extra labour
Type of property – homes with difficult access or where the boiler is being moved to a loft or basement may involve additional work
Age and model of the boiler – older or less common models might need special parts or upgrades.
Structural changes – alterations to walls or floors can increase the cost
Overall complexity of the job – more complex moves naturally come with higher labour and material costs.

Should I move my boiler or replace it?

Before you decide to move your boiler, it's worth checking whether it's time to replace your boiler. There are a few signs that can help you figure this out:

You've had to arrange a boiler repair more than once in the past year
Replacement parts are getting pricey or harder to find
Your home feels colder after an extension or renovation
Your energy bills are going up, even though your usage hasn’t changed—older boilers tend to be much less efficient.

Generally, if your current boiler is over 10 years old or has an energy rating below ‘C’, it might be worth considering a replacement rather than simply relocating it. According to the Energy Saving Trust, upgrading from a G-rated boiler to a modern A-rated condensing boiler could save you up to £490⁽³⁾ a year. While the average cost to buy and install a new gas boiler is £3,000⁽⁴⁾, the long-term energy savings and improved performance often make it a worthwhile investment. Replacing an old boiler can also lower your carbon emissions by around 1,500kg⁽⁵⁾ of CO₂ per year.

Ultimately, if your boiler is still functioning well and operating efficiently, moving it could be a more cost-effective solution. However, if your boiler shows signs of wear or inefficiency, replacing it may prove to be a more valuable long-term investment for your finances and the environment.

How long does it take to move a boiler?

Moving your boiler to a new location within your home typically takes 1 to 2 days, depending on the complexity of the job. This timeframe allows for tasks such as rerouting pipework, installing a new flue, and making sure everything is connected and working. However, several factors can affect the overall time:

Distance of relocation: the further the boiler needs to be moved, the more time and materials are required.
Types of boiler: standard boilers may take longer to relocate than combi boilers due to additional components and connections.
Property layout: homes with complex layouts or difficult access points can extend the installation time.
Additional installations: installing new features like smart thermostats or upgrading the fuel system can add to the timeline.

Can I move my boiler myself, or do I need an engineer?

It's important to know that moving or installing a boiler is not a DIY job. Any gas work, including installing or relocating a gas boiler, must be carried out by a Gas Safe registered engineer. Trying to fix it yourself can be risky and might affect your boiler cover. A Gas Safe registered engineer has the expertise to ensure your boiler is installed safely and complies with building regulations.

What’s the process of moving a boiler?

Moving your boiler to a new location within your home is a detailed process that requires careful planning and expertise. Here's a general overview of the steps involved:

Initial assessment: a qualified Gas Safe registered engineer will assess your home's layout, propose a new location for the boiler, and see if any changes need to be made to existing pipework and electrical connections.
Preparation: to make sure the boiler can be relocated safely, the engineer will isolate the gas and electrical supplies.
Disconnection: the existing boiler will be carefully disconnected from the system, including draining the system to remove residual water.
Reinstallation: the boiler will be relocated to the new position, and all necessary connections will be made, including gas, water, and electrical lines.
System testing: once installed, the engineer will test the system to make sure everything is working properly, checking for leaks and proper pressure.
Certification: when the installation is complete, the engineer will give you a Gas Safe certificate. This certificate confirms that the work meets all safety regulations.

Do I need permission to move my boiler?

In most cases, you won't need planning permission to move your boiler within your home. However, if you plan to install a new flue (the pipe that carries fumes from the boiler) that leads outside through a wall or roof, you may need to get planning permission. This is especially important if your property is listed or located in a conservation area. It's a good idea to check with your local planning authority before starting any work.

Are there any rules or regulations around moving boilers?

Yes, there are several regulations to ensure safety and efficiency:

Building regulations: any work on your heating system must comply with building regulations, which include requirements for energy efficiency and safety.
Gas Safe register: only Gas Safe registered engineers are legally permitted to carry out gas work.
Condensing boilers: since April 2005, all new boilers installed must be condensing models, which are more energy efficient.

Are there any places you cannot move your boiler to?

Boilers can't be moved to just any location due to safety and building regulations. It's important to install boilers where there's proper airflow and easy access for maintenance and repair. For example, they shouldn't be placed in bathrooms or bedrooms because these areas don’t have enough airflow and make maintenance or repairs difficult. To make sure your boiler is moved safely and meets all local regulations, it's always a good idea to consult with a qualified professional.

Where is the best place to position your boiler for efficiency?

The ideal location for your boiler balances efficiency, safety, and accessibility:

Central location: Positioning the boiler centrally can reduce the length of pipework and improve efficiency.
Access for maintenance: Make sure the boiler can be easily reached for annual servicing and emergency repairs, in a location such as a utility room or a cupboard that is easy to get to.
Adequate ventilation: Choose a location with sufficient airflow to prevent overheating.

Exploring alternatives to boiler relocation

If you’re considering moving your boiler, but also want to explore other options, there are several alternatives that could meet your needs and save you cash and carbon.

Getting a new or replacement boiler

If your current boiler is old, inefficient, or struggling to keep up with your household’s heating and hot water needs, getting a new boiler might be a simpler solution than relocating it.

Modern boilers are designed to be much more energy efficient, quieter, and smaller than older models. A new boiler can help reduce your energy bills and carbon footprint while improving your home's overall comfort. Replacing your boiler also gives you the chance to upgrade to smart controls, which make it easier to manage your heating efficiently, right from your phone or tablet.

So, if you’re looking for a more efficient and reliable heating system without the trouble of relocating your current one, replacing your boiler could be a great option — and there are even some grants available that may help cover the cost:

In Scotland, Warmer Homes Scotland offers energy saving home improvements worth up to £10,000. to eligible households, making homes warmer and more affordable to heat.
In Wales, Nest provides free home energy efficiency improvements, such as new boilers, central heating, insulation, or solar panels, to eligible low-income homeowners and private sector tenants.

To make things even easier, we work with trusted partners across the UK who use Gas Safe registered engineers ready to help you replace your old boiler. Reach out today for boiler solutions and take the first step toward a warmer home, lower bills, and peace of mind.

Air source heat pumps

Air source heat pumps are an efficient electric heating alternative to traditional boilers. They work by extracting heat from the outside air, even in cooler temperatures, and turning it into heat for your home. When paired with solar panels and batteries, heat pumps can be completely zero carbon.

Switching to an air source heat pump can be a smart investment, and there are a few air source heat pump grants available to help reduce the upfront costs.

In England and Wales, the Boiler Upgrade Scheme offers homeowners up to £7,500 towards the installation of an air source heat pump.
In Scotland, Home Energy Scotland offers grants of £7,500 for installation. If you live in a remote area and qualify for the rural uplift, this grant increases to £9,000.

We understand that choosing the right heating solution for your home is crucial for comfort and efficiency, and we’re here to help. EDF Heat Pumps is accredited by Which? Trusted Traders, and are committed to making sure you receive top-quality products and service.

Electric radiators and storage heaters

If you're looking for a simpler, low maintenance alternative to heating your home, electric radiators and storage heaters are worth considering. These electric heating options are easy to install, don’t require pipework, and can offer flexible heating solutions, especially in homes where space is limited or where gas isn’t available.

Electric radiators heat up quickly and allow you to control the temperature room by room, which can help reduce energy use and lower bills. Many models also come with smart controls, letting you manage your heating through an app or schedule it around your daily routine.

Storage heaters, on the other hand, work by storing heat during off peak electricity hours—usually overnight—and releasing it gradually throughout the day. This can be a cost effective option if you’re on an Economy 7 tariff or a similar energy deal.

Ready to move forward with your boiler relocation or replacement?

If you're now ready to move your boiler or upgrade to a more efficient boiler, we're working with a trusted network of Gas Safe engineers. across the UK, ready to help you replace your old boiler.

Not sure which option is right for you? No problem! We're here to guide you through the heating options and find the best solution for your home and budget. From expert installations to low carbon heating options, we’re here to make your home warmer, greener, and more energy efficient.

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