Preparing for the installation of a new gas combination boiler can be a stressful task, especially if you’re juggling it with work and the kids; not to mention trying to deal with a faulty or broken boiler as it is. Fortunately, there are ways to make the installation of a new or replacement gas combi boiler run as smoothly and efficiently as possible – just make sure that you consider some of the following factors:

1. Budget for the unit and installation

Many homeowners forget or don’t understand that most companies offer a quote solely for the gas boiler unit itself, and don’t include the installation in that fixed price. Obviously this will depend on the retailers or manufacturers you go to, but as a general rule it’s good to remember that you should enquire (either in person or by phone or e-mail) about just how much it will cost for the entire unit and fitting – that way you can budget properly and make sure you don’t overspend.

2. Hire a chartered gas surveyor

If you are switching from an oil-burning or electrical boiler and aren’t sure if you can have a gas combi boiler installed in your home, then you should always hire a charted gas surveyor to come and carry out a thorough inspection of your property before buying anything. They will be able to let you know whether or not your home is compatible and recommend just how much setting up a new gas connection will cost – saving you any surprises later on.

3. Use a trusted installer

If you are thinking of hiring someone to install your gas combination boiler who isn’t associated with the company you purchased the unit from, don’t just go for the cheapest option. Instead, check out recommendations from friends or family or see if there is anybody trustworthy in the local area who can get the job done well. By law, all gas appliances need to be installed by a Gas Safe registered engineer, so make sure your installer has a valid Gas Safe card before you hire. Watch out for any ‘cowboy’ contractors who come knocking at your door too – these guys aren’t registered to sell or install boilers and could leave you with a faulty new combi boiler install which can be dangerous.

4. Plan for the fitting

Once you’ve chosen your model and hired a quality combi boiler installer, get the house ready for whoever is coming round to fit the unit. That means clearing away space in the chosen area, but also making sure the installer has clear access to any wiring, storage tanks or pipe work. If you are having new radiators fitted as well, you should ideally plan to make you and your family scarce for a few days – this will allow the engineer to get the job done as quickly as possible without anybody getting in the way and causing hold-ups.

5. Check for a warranty

Finally, make sure your new gas combi boiler comes with a standard warranty or guarantee. Most manufacturers or retailers offer at least a five-year plan where they will complete top-up repairs or servicing for free, but if you don’t check the details beforehand you could find yourself paying to fix your new boiler sooner than you’d like. With local or online contractors you could always get a legal adviser to check over the contract too, just to be on the safe side.

It looks like a lot to think about, but if you follow these simple tips step-by-step, you are unlikely to miss anything significant; allowing you and your family to enjoy the comfort and warmth of your new gas combi boiler as soon as you switch it on!