A central heating system is designed to provide warmth to the interior of the whole building; therefore, it is one of the best ways of keeping comfortable during the cold seasons. Such systems are generally more efficient, quiet, and, in many events, more economical in the long term compared to regular or usual heating options.

Generally speaking, a new central heating system may cost an average of £3,500 and £10,000 to install, depending on various factors. But with first time central heating grants, you may get it for free. The type and size of the boiler (and your property) – what’s required by way of labour and how the installation is executed – determine the overall cost.

This article will look at everything you will need to understand about the installation costs of a central heating system.

What is the Cost of Installing a New Central Heating System?

The costs of installing a new central heating system vary depending on the various factors. If you already have good-conditioned ductwork, then the installation of a gas central heating system can range from £3,500 to £10,000. However, if the installation requires major renovations – meaning opening walls, attic spaces, ceilings, or crawl areas – then the cost may rise as high as £10,000 to £14,000. Other features, which could be installed in addition, such as zone heating or a special thermostat, can further increase the overall cost.

Depending on the kind of boiler you choose, you may also need to add in a hot water storage cylinder and expansion tanks. Labour costs also come into great significance with, again, region and engineer experience dictating the overall cost.

For example, you might be spending £700 on a small home for pipework, while a medium one could cost you £1,600. It is all about getting quotations in writing and finding out what each quote covers to avoid surprises.

What is Involved in a Central Heating Installation?

A central heating system usually has the standard components: a boiler, radiators, pipework, and heating controls. Generally, it takes many different steps to install central heating, and thus, it can influence the cost and time frame.

This would first include draining the old system and removing all old, outdated boilers and radiators. Then, newer components are installed, and pipework is fitted wherever needed. On the last day, engineers will commission, test, and balance the system to make sure everything works as it should be.

This will involve proper planning to minimize disruption. It is about the right boiler type, brand, and capacity, among other aspects, that need to be installed. You may also make a choice between options such as radiators and underfloor heating.

Moreover, the provided advanced heating controls may involve smart systems, such as smart thermostats and radiator valves, which could raise efficiency at home. This will increase the general cost of installation but can normally give way to higher energy efficiency, hence helping in reducing long-term energy costs.

Cost of Installing Central Heating in a Two-Bed Bungalow

Generally speaking, the cost of installing gas central heating into a two-bedroom bungalow will be up to £5,000. This cost would include a range of component parts and incoming labour for such an installation:

• It will cost you about £1,500 for the boiler itself and its installation.
• You can expect to pay around £900 for radiators in total, including parts and labour.
• Pipework, including material and fitting, begins at £200.

These are just averages, and one is always well-advised to have some extra on hand for those unexpected expenses.

Central Heating Installation Cost for a Three-Bedroom House

The costs of installing central heating for a three-bedroom house range from £ 6,000 to £ 8,000 on average. Here’s a breakdown of the costs:

• A new boiler for a house of this size could cost any amount from £1,000 to £2,500.
• You will have to install several radiators, the price of which starts from £180 for a simple low-end type to Central Heating Installation Cost.
• You might expect to pay around £800 to £1,000 for the pipework required.
• Installation costs also include labour fees, which are generally based on an engineer’s daily rate of about £200.

These figures are estimates, and several factors will determine the final price, including but not limited to your property’s specific needs and any additional features you may want.

Central Heating Installation Cost for a Two-Storey, Four-Bed House

For a larger property, such as a four-bed two-storey house, the cost of installing a central heating system is normally around £5,000. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

• The boiler cost – installed on a property of that size is about £1,300 to £2,000.
• It will generally take about ten radiators for a four-bedroom house, which would cost in total about £1,500, including parts and labour.
• The cost for pipework, including supply and installation, is around £1,000.

• For properties requiring a hot water tank, you can expect to pay up to £220.

Additional components may be required; or unexpected work becomes evident during the course of installation. So, it is always wise to have a bit extra at your hand.

Factors Affecting the Overall Central Heating Installation Cost

The actual costs of a central heating installation may vary significantly due to several factors, each unique to any given property and the needs of the homeowner. Key elements likely to influence the total cost include:

• Fuel Type

The fuel type used by your heating system includes gas, oil, electric, etc., which will again reflect in the cost. Generally, gas comes at cheaper rates, but the installation may require more work as compared to electric systems.

1. Boiler Type

Combi, system, or conventional – all of these impact the amount you are required to pay. Generally, combi boilers are cheaper, but they may not be suitable for larger houses.

1. Boiler Size 

The scale and output of the boiler should relate to the heating requirements of one’s house. Larger boilers are usually more costly; however, they can cope with a bigger space and heat it accordingly.

• Boiler Manufacturer

Premium brands may mean additional cost, but they may also offer better performance and longer warranties.

1. Pipework and Radiators

New or complex pipework can involve the installation of additional radiators, thus increasing the costs. The more radiators you need, coupled with complex piping, the higher the installation costs will be.

1. Heating Controls

Basic thermostats are less expensive but swallow hard for smart thermostats, adding more cash to your total installation cost.

• Labour Costs

Labour costs vary depending on the complexity of the installation and the rates of the installer.

Paying for a New Central Heating System

Installing a new central heating system can be a huge expense. Installation costs and the cost of parts can vary depending on a variety of factors. So, it is wise to get quotes from several different companies to ensure the best option. 

Although the upfront cost may seem quite high, it’s often more economical in the long run compared to continuing with an old, inefficient system.

Grants to Cover the Cost of Installing New Central Heating

The UK Government has made £12 billion available in energy grants under various initiatives, including the Help to Heat scheme. These provide financial support toward making homes warmer and more energy-efficient. Below are summarized some of the major options for grants:

• Energy Company Obligation (ECO4)

An initiative where energy suppliers are obliged to assist households in lowering the cost of heating homes by installing energy-saving measures. It provides eligible households with free boiler replacements, among other improvements.

• Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS)

It is a government scheme offering grants for installing low-carbon heating systems such as heat pumps, which would help you transition toward greener systems.

This will be a great opportunity to upgrade your central heating system at minimum or no cost, hence providing you with a warmer and more energy-efficient home.

The Bottom Line

Installing a new central heating system is a good investment that can lower energy bills and improve the comfort of your home. Among the factors that will give insight into the costs involved are the type of boiler, heating controls, and complexities of the installation.

You can also be eligible for some government grants, such as ECO4, which contributes towards the cost of an upgrade. With the potential long-term savings on energy bills, the benefits often outweigh the initial cost of upgrading your heating system.