10 Things to Consider when Buying a Boiler
With everything you’ve got going on right now, the last thing on your mind should be is spending time trawling through leaflets and websites to find the right boiler. Luckily, this article is designed precisely to help you navigate the minefield of boiler-land, and to emerge at the other side with your reward of an energy-efficient, affordable boiler.
1. Understand the terminology
It may seem simple enough, but if you don’t know your back boilers from your combis, be prepared to be taken for a ride. It’s a harsh truth that experts can wangle more money out of the more clueless among us, as they feel overwhelmed by all the jargon.
2. Shop around
Calling up hundreds of different boiler suppliers may be the last thing you want to do, but don’t jump at the first quote you get - you might end up spending £100 more than you need to. Ideally, you should get as many quotes as you can. Realistically, aim to get at least three.
3. Know where your boiler’s going
Knowing how much space you’re willing to give over to your new boiler will make life a lot easier when it comes choosing the right one – it wouldn’t really be appropriate to have a boiler, a water tank and a transporting system in a one-bedroom flat, now, would it?
4. Analyse that!
Think realistically about your water consumption before the boiler-man comes round – for example, are there two showers on the go at once every morning?
5. Check up on deals
A boiler is only really efficient in the long run if it comes with maintenance and cover.
6. Embrace solar
Making use of solar heating panels could cut your heating bills by as much as 33%, although they’re not appropriate for everyone.
7. Consider every alternative
If you’re strapped for cash right now, cavity wall or loft insulation could be a cheaper, albeit temporary, solution to your heating problems.
8. Tick the right boxes
Don’t be afraid to quiz the engineer about every aspect of your boiler in order to ensure it’s exactly right.
9. Look to the future
Getting an extension or loft conversion tomorrow will influence the boiler you buy today.
10. Stick to your budget!
Make sure you know exactly how much money you’re willing to cough up for your new boiler, and don’t feel pressured into spending more.
Article by Connor Sephton, 12th September 2011. Content correct at the date of publication.
|
RSS | 