When people think of summer, they imagine garden barbecues, beach trips, and maybe even the odd ice cream or two. But one thing few homeowners consider during the warmer months is their heating system. Yet, here’s a trade secret from us at Wright Gas: summer is actually the best time for a new boiler installation.

While your radiators lie idle and your boiler barely hums, it’s the perfect moment to assess whether your current system is fit for purpose. Waiting until your boiler is not working in the dead of winter is both stressful and costly. In contrast, a new boiler fitted in summer means you’re prepared, calm, and potentially saving hundreds of pounds in the long run.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through everything from the best time to replace a boiler, to boiler prices UK, different boiler types, and how much a new boiler costs in today’s market. Plus, we’ll answer some common questions we hear from customers across the UK.

 

When Should You Install a New Boiler?

Homeowners often ask, “When should I consider replacing a boiler?” The answer? Before it fails. Most modern boilers have a lifespan of around 10 to 15 years. Even if it still works, an ageing boiler becomes less efficient, more prone to breakdowns, and increasingly expensive to maintain.

You should start seriously thinking about a boiler replacement if you’re experiencing regular faults, especially if you’ve had to call for boiler repair more than once in the last year. Another red flag is if your heating or hot water supply becomes inconsistent, or you notice strange noises such as banging or whistling. These noises often indicate a build-up of sludge or air in the system.

A steady drop in pressure, especially in summer when the boiler is hardly in use—is another sign that the system may be deteriorating internally. While topping up the pressure can be a short-term fix, repeated pressure loss may require a professional inspection or a complete boiler change.

Also consider age. If your boiler is over 12 years old, it’s likely missing modern features like smart controls and is probably running at around 70% efficiency, compared to newer models that can hit 90–94%. In this case, a new boiler installation could pay for itself in energy savings within just a few years.

Boiler Types: Which One Is Right for You?

Understanding boiler types is crucial when planning a new boiler replacement. Your choice will impact cost, performance, space, and convenience. At Wright Gas, we install all major types of boilers and will happily help you choose the right fit for your home.

Combi Boilers:

Short for “combination boilers,” combi boilers are compact units that provide both central heating and instant hot water, without the need for a separate cylinder or cold water tank. These are the most common boiler type in the UK, especially in smaller homes and flats.

If you’re looking to maximise space and reduce boiler installation costs, a combi boiler could be ideal. They tend to have a lower new boiler cost UK compared to system or conventional boilers, and they’re easier (and quicker) to install, reducing labour costs. However, they’re best suited to homes with one bathroom, as water pressure can drop when multiple taps are used at once.

Pros:

• Compact and wall-mounted
• Energy-efficient
• Hot water on demand
• Lower new boiler cost

Cons:

• Not ideal for homes with multiple bathrooms
• Water pressure depends on mains supply

System Boilers:

System boilers use a hot water cylinder to store heated water, making them ideal for homes with multiple bathrooms or higher hot water demands. They don’t require a cold water tank, which means less space than a conventional boiler system, but more than a combi.

These boilers provide strong, consistent pressure and are well-suited to modern, well-insulated homes. Installation is more complex than with combis, so boiler change cost may be slightly higher, but the benefits in performance can outweigh the investment.

Pros:

• Can handle multiple bathrooms
• Consistent pressure
• Ideal for families

Cons:

• Needs space for a cylinder
• Slightly higher boiler change cost

Conventional (Heat Only) Boilers:

Also known as regular or traditional boilers, these are most common in older homes with existing radiator systems and a separate hot water cylinder and cold water storage tank. Though bulkier, they work well in homes where water pressure is low or where the current system is too complex to replace easily.

Choosing to stick with this setup often reduces disruption during a boiler and installation job but may result in slightly higher ongoing running costs compared to modern systems.

Pros:

• Works well with existing traditional systems
• Good for low-pressure areas

Cons:

• Takes up more space
• Less efficient than combi boilers

Not sure which to choose? We offer tailored new boiler quotations at Wright Gas, helping you pick the perfect fit for your home.

The Benefits of New Boiler Installation:

Upgrading to a new boiler brings immediate and long-term benefits. First and foremost, you’ll notice improved energy efficiency. Modern A-rated boilers can convert over 90% of fuel into heat, while older models may waste up to 30%.

This translates into lower energy bills, especially during winter when heating usage spikes. Many homeowners see annual savings of £300 or more after a new boiler installation, making it a worthwhile investment.

Another key advantage is reliability. A modern gas boiler replacement will come with warranty coverage, often up to 10 years, giving you peace of mind. You’re also far less likely to experience unexpected breakdowns that require costly boiler repair services.

Modern boilers are also quieter, smaller, and compatible with smart controls, meaning you have better control over your heating from your smartphone, even when you’re not at home.

Why Is Summer the Best Time to Replace Your Boiler?

Many people ask, “Why replace a boiler in summer when you don’t need heating?” But that’s exactly the point. During summer, your home isn’t reliant on the heating system, making it the most convenient and least disruptive time to upgrade to a new boiler.

One major benefit of summer installations is availability. Heating engineers like us at Wright Gas tend to be less busy during the warmer months, which means we can often offer quicker appointments and more flexible scheduling. If you wait until winter, you’re more likely to be stuck in a long queue when everyone’s boiler starts failing under pressure.

Another advantage is the ability to take your time. In summer, you’re not under pressure to make a fast decision because your boiler’s broken and the house is freezing. You can explore options, get several boiler quotes, compare models, and ask all the important questions, like “what’s the new boiler cost with installation?” or “which boiler system is best for my home?”

There’s also the potential for cost savings. Many suppliers and installers offer off-peak promotions or package deals during the summer. So yes, to answer a frequently Googled question: “Is it cheaper to get a new boiler installed in summer?, often, it absolutely is.

Lastly, a summer installation ensures your home is 100% ready for the colder months ahead. No need to worry about your gas boiler breaking down mid-December, you’ll have a brand new, efficient system already in place, quietly doing its job.

Boiler Servicing and Maintenance in Summer:

Getting your boiler serviced annually ensures it continues to run efficiently and safely. Summer is the perfect time for a boiler service, engineers are more available, and you avoid the winter rush.

During a service, your engineer will clean the system, check for leaks, test safety features, inspect the flue, and make sure everything is operating within safe parameters. Regular boiler maintenance can extend the life of your system and prevent major issues later.

Don’t forget: a yearly service is often required to keep your boiler’s warranty valid.

How Much Does a New Boiler Cost?

Let’s break down the big one: “new boiler how much?” The answer depends on your current setup, your choice of boiler type, and whether it’s a like-for-like boiler change or a system conversion.

In general, the new boiler cost UK for a combi boiler ranges from £1,800 to £3,000 including installation. A system boiler might cost £2,000 to £3,500, while a regular boiler replacement can range from £2,000 to £3,800, depending on the complexity of the job.

Additional costs can include smart thermostats, system flushing, magnetic filters, or relocation of the boiler itself. These extras can raise your new boiler price UK, but they also enhance performance and longevity.

At Wright Gas, we offer transparent boiler quotations that include everything up front, no hidden surprises, just one fixed boiler and installation price tailored to your home.

Wrapping Up…

Choosing to get your new boiler fitted in summer is a smart, forward-thinking move. Not only will you avoid the panic of a winter breakdown, but you’ll also benefit from faster service, potential cost savings, and the ability to take your time when exploring boiler prices and systems.

At Wright Gas, we offer expert advice, high-quality installations, and no-nonsense new boiler quotes. Whether you’re curious about the new boiler cost with installation, looking to switch to a combi boiler, or simply want a reliable boiler installer near me, we’ve got your back.

Ready to take the next step?

Get in touch with Wright Gas today for a, fixed-price new boiler quotation, no pressure, no obligation, just friendly expert help.

FAQ: Your Boiler Questions Answered

Should you run your boiler in summer?
Yes, turning your boiler on for 10–15 minutes every few weeks helps keep the internal components from seizing and ensures that everything remains in working order.

Why does boiler pressure drop in summer?
In warmer months, the heating system is used less frequently, which can lead to a minor pressure drop. This is generally normal, but if your boiler pressure drops below 1 bar and doesn’t return to normal, you may need to repressurise the system, or call in a professional.

How many hours does it take to fit a new boiler?
A straightforward new boiler replacement takes about 4–6 hours. More complex installations, like changing boiler type or relocating the boiler, may take 1 to 2 days. Our engineers at Wright Gas will always explain the timeline clearly.