Heating FAQs

We install natural gas boilers which are high efficiency condensing boilers and many gas boilers are also hydrogen-ready. We also install LPG (liquid petroleum gas), oil and solid fuel/biomass central heating boilers.

We provide a wide range of renewable energy solutions such as air source heat pumps, ground source heat pumps, biomass boilers, solar energy for water heating and solar PV panels. The choice of renewable energy system will depend on several factors including your budget and the size and type of the property. For example, an air source heat pump is the perfect match for a smaller, new-build property with under-floor heating, which is well-insulated and has low fabric heat loss. However, we also install hybrid systems, for example, where an air source heat pump and high efficiency gas boiler are fitted. This helps to reduce energy costs and carbon emissions while providing a warm and comfortable home.

We complete a wide range of central heating upgrades for our customers. The most common upgrade is replacing a traditional gas boiler and hot water tank with a high efficiency condensing combination (combi) boiler. In addition, we often update the heating controls and install new thermostatic radiator valves.

A central heating upgrade may also be updating your old gravity type heating/hot water system to a modern, fully pumped, fully thermostatically controlled central heating system to comply with the current Part L building regulations. It could incorporate a renewable energy source to provide a hybrid heating system.

You will not necessarily need to replace your radiators as long as they are in good working order. They will require a thorough flush or power flush to ensure that there are no blocked pipes or valves. It may be advisable to replace old high-water-content radiators with low-water-content radiators as they are more efficient. However, this can be done at a later date.

Again, you will not necessarily need to replace your thermostat, but it is often advisable to upgrade your heating controls. They are relatively inexpensive and modern controls are more accurate and better able to maintain an even temperature within the home. They also give you more flexibility so that you can use your heating more efficiently.

Installation times will vary from home to home and according to the type of heating. Below is an approximate guide:

• Traditional/combination boiler replacement and power flush: 1-2 days
• Boiler replacement, system upgrade & power flush: 1-3 days
• Upgrade existing traditional system to combination system: 1-2 days
• Install complete new central heating system: 2-5 days (this will depend on the type of system, the amount of radiators and the size of the property)
• Install a new air source heat pump or hybrid system – 5 – 6 days

We try to minimise disruption as far as possible and schedule the work around you as best we can. All engineers carry their own vacuum cleaners, dust sheets and door mats, leaving your home clean and tidy at the end of each day. We don’t leave a job until it is finished, unless in exceptional circumstances, but will make sure that your home is clean, safe and warm.

Any old flue openings are made good with material matching the original as closely as possible/practical. We remove old boilers and all rubbish, which is recycled as much as possible. Our quality management procedures ensure we take the greatest care with all aspects of your installation.

When your installation is complete you are given a unique reference number to quote in the unlikely event of a problem. All systems fitted by us carry a minimum comprehensive two-year warranty on all parts and labour (subject to terms and conditions). Many manufacturers offer five year guarantees with some offering up to ten years, and you can also take out extended warranties.  Existing pipework and radiators, for example, are not covered by the warranty but if a problem arises we will endeavour to solve it for you.

As a condition of the guarantee, boilers need to be serviced every 12 months by an accredited engineer. This also ensures that they are running efficiently and safely. We are happy to service your boiler for you but also appreciate that you may have an existing relationship or contract for servicing and maintenance.

Yes, there is some grant funding available for new central heating, insulation, more efficient boilers or renewable energy solutions. These schemes change frequently and there are often requirements that need to be met, so it is worth looking into it to sooner rather than later.

The First Time Central Heating scheme is a government scheme to fund the installation of central heating in homes that do not have, and have never had, central heating. There are eligibility criteria relating to income and the amount of insulation in the property. You can find out more at the Ofgem website: https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/publications/first-time-central-heating-ftch-checklist

In addition, Energy Company Obligations (ECO) schemes are designed to address fuel poverty and reduce carbon emissions by increasing energy efficiency in homes for people on low incomes. This may be by installing insulation prior to any new heating measures. You can find out more on the Ofgem website here: https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/environmental-and-social-schemes/energy-company-obligation-eco/support-improving-your-home

The current plan is to stop connecting new homes to the gas grid from 2025. However, there is a plentiful supply of gas and we understand that natural gas will continue to be available until hydrogen gas becomes a viable alternative. You don’t need to worry about whether a new gas boiler fitted now will become obsolete in a few years’ time. Investing in a new high-efficiency condensing gas boiler will still help you to increase energy efficiency and most modern boilers can be easily adapted to run on hydrogen gas.