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Best Boilers Brands & Models in the UK in 2024
- The best sustainable boiler is a hydrogen, biomass, or electric boiler.
- The best boiler is Viessmann Vitodens 100-W.
- The best boilers in the UK cost between £732 and £2,068 and provide warranties of up to 12 years.
Are you on the hunt for the best boilers available in 2024? From cutting-edge technology to enhanced efficiency, there are a lot of great new boilers on the market. However, it can be overwhelming considering how many different brands and types there are to choose from. Where do you even begin? Well, this article is a good place to start searching for the best boilers in the UK!
In this piece, we’ll walk you through some of the best boilers on the market. When looking for the best home boilers, it is useful to know all the different product specifications and household factors before your purchase, as they affect your new boiler cost.
The next step is finding out which new boiler is best for your home. Instead of spending hours doing endless research by yourself, GreenMatch offers a great shortcut.
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How did we select the best boiler models & best boiler brands?
Established history and experience
A company’s background and reputation within the boiler industry are crucial reliability indicators. Delving into a manufacturer’s track record of innovation and consistent quality can provide valuable insights into their commitment to producing dependable boilers.
For example, according to the Heating and Hotwater Industry Council (HHIC), a few well-established brands that have been operating for decades. For example, companies such as Worcester Bosch, Vaillant, and Baxi dominate the UK boiler market.
Energy efficiency and sustainability
In today’s climate-conscious era, prioritising brands that design boilers focusing on energy efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability is essential. Upgrading to a more efficient boiler can save homeowners up to £460 per year on their energy bills, making this a crucial consideration.
Customer satisfaction
Positive customer reviews and feedback are a strong indicator of a company’s commitment to quality and customer needs. For example, analysing the experiences of those who have used the boiler products can provide valuable insights into the reliability and performance of the equipment.
We factor in Trustpilot scores, word-of-mouth, as well customer reviews to get an idea of which boilers are homeowners’ most common choice.
Competitive pricing
Accessibility is crucial, and a competitive price range ensures that a broader audience can afford the central heating installation cost and benefit from the boiler’s features.
Warranty coverage
Evaluating the warranty duration provided by manufacturers is essential. A longer warranty period not only offers peace of mind for homeowners but also reduces the risk of unforeseen repair costs, adding to the overall product value. The industry standard for boiler warranties in the UK is typically 5-10 years.
Certain boiler companies offer the possibility of extending their warranty under certain conditions. These can be installing additional features such as smart controllers or water treatment systems. Also, many manufacturers offer extended warranties if the boiler is installed by one of their approved installers.
Customer service excellence
A high standard of customer service, marked by responsiveness and helpfulness, significantly contributes to a positive overall experience for homeowners. This can be particularly important when dealing with any issues or maintenance requirements.
Diverse model range
A broader selection of models enhances versatility, allowing manufacturers to cater to the varied needs of homeowners. The more diverse the model range, the better the company can address different boiler requirements, such as size, fuel type, and heating capacity.
Best boilers & most reliable boilers in the UK: our top 5
#1 Viessmann Vitodens 100-W range
- Type: Combi
- Central heating output: 19kW–32kW
- Hot water output: 27.3kW–34.9kW
- Efficiency: 94%
- Warranty: Up to 12 years
- Price range: £1,125-£1,292
For homeowners prioritising energy efficiency, quiet operation, and a long lifespan, the Vitodens 100-W Combi deserves serious consideration. It boasts an impressive 94% efficiency rating, helping you save money on your energy bills despite the energy price cap fluctuations.
This boiler is also surprisingly compact and lightweight (with 36kg being the lightest), making it the best combi boiler for a large house despite its small footprint.
The Vitodens 100-W Combi model range offers a peaceful home environment thanks to its whisper-quiet operation of just 35 dB. Advanced technology like the modulating MatriX-Plus cylinder burner and Inox-Radial heat exchanger contributes to its exceptional efficiency and performance.
#2 Vaillant ecoTEC Exclusive Green IQ 835
- Type: Combi
- Central heating output: 26.4kW
- Hot water output: 35.3kW
- Efficiency: 94%
- Warranty: 10 years
- Price range: £1,485–£2,068
This Vaillant boiler prioritises both efficiency and sustainability. It features pioneering Green iQ technology, a system that optimises performance to reduce gas consumption. Furthermore, the boiler boasts a wide modulation range of up to 1:10, allowing it to adapt to various heating demands and systems with maximum efficiency.
Additionally, a dedicated Green iQ mode is available to further refine the boiler’s running cycle, ensuring optimal fuel usage. The eco-friendly design extends beyond operation, with an impressive 85% of the boiler being recyclable at the end of its lifespan.
For extended peace of mind, consider having a Vaillant Advance installer handle the installation. This can extend the warranty to either 7 or 10 years, depending on your chosen option.
#3 Baxi 800 Combi
- Type: Combi
- Central heating output: 21.2kW–26.4kW
- Hot water output: 25kW, 30kW, 36kW
- Efficiency: 93%
- Warranty: 10 years
- Price range: £858-£1,205
The Baxi 800 Combi is the best combi boiler in the UK, being a popular choice thanks to its versatility and reliability. It offers a range of output options to suit different property sizes, ensuring you get the right amount of heating power for your needs. Additionally, Baxi boilers boast high efficiencies, managing up to 94%, and a generous warranty period for added peace of mind.
The Baxi 800 Combi incorporates advanced features like the Adey Micro2 Filter. This filter plays a crucial role in maintaining the boiler’s efficiency and preventing potential breakdowns. By capturing and removing debris or sludge circulating in the system, the filter ensures reliable heating and hot water delivery for your home.
#4 Worcester Bosch Greenstar 4000
- Type: System
- Output range: 12-24kW
- Efficiency: 93%-94%
- Warranty: Up to 12 years
- Price range: £975-£1,200
The Worcester Bosch Greenstar 4000 system gas boiler is widely regarded as one of the most reliable combi boilers on the UK market, according to the independent consumer organisation Which?. This boiler is praised for its exceptional efficiency, quiet operation, and proven reliability.
Featuring an efficiency rating of 90% or above, the Greenstar 4000 is a highly energy-efficient model that meets the Energy-related Products (ErP) standards required by the UK’s Boiler Plus legislation. Also, its condensing technology and advanced heat exchanger design contribute to its eco-friendly performance and low environmental impact.
In addition to its energy efficiency, the Greenstar 4000 boiler is known for its user-friendly features. The “Quick Tap” function helps minimise water usage, while the compatibility with the Bosch EasyControl smart thermostat allows for precise temperature control and zoning in separate rooms.
#5 Ideal Logic range
- Type: Regular
- Output range: 15–30.3kW
- Efficiency: 93%-94%
- Warranty: 7–10 years
- Price range: £732-£1,117
Ideal’s Logic regular boiler range is a budget-conscious homeowner’s dream. If you’re wondering which boiler is the most reliable, Ideal is your way to go without breaking the bank. Peace of mind comes standard with a 12-year warranty.
Ideal Logic boilers prioritise user-friendliness with a straightforward design. For example, built-in features like frost protection and smart temperature controls enhance functionality without unnecessary complexity.
The popularity of Ideal Logic boilers extends to new build developers across the UK. The fact that they’re manufactured in the UK can also potentially lead to even more attractive pricing due to reduced import costs.
While our top 5 is a strong reference point, the best boiler for your home depends on your specific needs and property characteristics. Consulting with a qualified heating engineer is a surefire way to find the most reliable boiler.
However, finding a trustworthy professional on your own can be daunting and take hours with the sheer number of options available.
Alternatively, you could get started in only 30 seconds by filling out our short form. Based on the information you provide about your home, we’ll connect you with up to 3 heating experts near you. Just click below to begin!
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Best green boilers: which boilers are greenest?
While searching for the best boilers for home, we often need to think about the best boilers for our environment.
Nesta estimates that an average UK boiler emits more CO2 yearly than seven flights between London and New York.
According to Ofgem estimates, a typical UK home classified as “medium” consumes around 12,000kWh of gas annually. This translates to roughly 1,000kWh per month. Government figures indicate that burning natural gas generates 183 grams of CO2 per kWh.
Thus, based on these figures, an average UK boiler might emit approximately 183kg of CO2 each month. On an annual basis, this translates to roughly 2.20 tonnes of CO2 emissions.
So what are the best boilers for the environment? Let’s have a look at the greenest and best boilers for home heating.
| Boiler type | Environmental benefits | Drawbacks | Best models |
|---|---|---|---|
| Condensing | It’s designed to capture and recycle the heat from exhaust gases through a heat exchanger before those gases are vented out | Carbon emissions are still present | All modern and best new boilers are condensing |
| Electric | 100% of the energy used in this boiler is converted directly into heat for your home, unlike traditional gas boilers where some heat escapes through exhaust fumes | Electricity generation still relies heavily on fossil fuels in the UK, so make sure to use green electricity for a lower environmental impact | Elnur Mattira MAC15, Electric Heating Company Comet Combi Boiler |
| Biomass | Use biomass fuels such as wood from trees, logs, and chips which is considered a carbon-neutral practice | Emissions from biomass combustion, such as particulate matter, require additional filtration equipment. | Grant Spira 36kW, Windhager FireWIN Klassik 12kW |
| Hydrogen ready | Burning hydrogen produces only water vapour, eliminating carbon emissions | Hydrogen production and distribution are still in development which influences their availability and cost | Baxi 600 (combi), Worcester Bosch Greenstar 4000 (combi) |
All in all, while each of these boiler types offers potential benefits, they also have practical and environmental trade-offs.
A condensing boiler isn’t the greenest solution, yet it’s still better than a non-condensing one. Luckily, since 2005 it’s illegal to install non-condensing boilers in the UK so any new boiler you buy is likely more or less sustainable.
Speaking of biomass boilers, the trees needed for them aren’t regrown fast enough. So, in practice, these boilers aren’t carbon-neutral even though they could be in theory.
An electric boiler is way more efficient than gas boilers, which is the most popular boiler option in the UK. Yet if you’re considering an electric boiler as a gas boiler alternative, make sure to check whether the electricity powering your electric boiler will be sourced from renewable or green energy sources.
Any option should be carefully considered with a Gas Safe Registered installer when selecting the best home boilers.
Best boiler brands in the UK?: Our top 5
#1 Worcester Bosch
- A household name known for exceptional quality, Worcester Bosch boasts over 50 years of experience and a decade-long streak of Which? Best Buys.
- Developed a hydrogen prototype boiler and secured the “Best Heating Innovation” award at the Green Home Awards.
- Their dedication to customer satisfaction is evident, having won the Customer Award at the HVR Awards in 2022.
Committed to pushing boundaries, Worcester Bosch developed a hydrogen prototype boiler and secured the “Best Heating Innovation” award at the Green Home Awards. Additionally, they focus on future-proof technologies like hybrid heating systems.
The company offers gas, LPG, and oil-fired boilers in combi, system, and regular options to suit any home size. You can enjoy extended warranty options, with coverage of up to 12 years for peace of mind. Investigate their website for details on warranty registration and terms.
#2 Vaillant
- Was established in 1874 when Johann Vaillant established a workshop in Remscheid, Germany.
- Vaillant was recognised for its “Operational Excellence” in the Intelligent Spend Management Award 2023, presented by Roland Berger and SAP.
- The company employs around 17,000 people worldwide and generates an annual turnover of approximately £3.2 billion, making it one of the largest companies in its sector in Europe.
In 1894, Vaillant introduced the world’s first gas-powered water heater with a closed system for temperature regulation, marking a significant leap forward in safety and efficiency compared to previous models.
In 1967, they revolutionised the industry by introducing the first high-efficiency boiler, setting a new energy savings standard. This dedication to advancement is further evidenced by strategic acquisitions throughout Vaillant’s history, including Saunier Duval, Bulex, and the British Hepworth Group.
Generally, Vaillant boilers are recognised for their quiet operation, with several models being awarded the Quiet Mark accreditation by the UK Noise Abatement Society.
#3 Ideal
- Ideal was initially known as the National Radiator Company and was instrumental in moving boilers from basements to kitchens in the 1920s.
- Ideal has received the Queen’s Award for Enterprise, acknowledging their innovative approach.
- Their boilers feature a 7:1 modulation range, optimising performance and contributing to energy savings.
Established in 1906, Ideal has a long history of introducing innovative heating technologies. For example, the Ideal Cookanheat in 1920 combined an open fire, a central heating boiler, and a cooking oven.
Today, the company offers combi, regular, and system boilers with outputs suitable for various home sizes. In 2009, Ideal launched the pioneering Logic range, which achieved over 90% efficiency, setting new industry standards.
Designed for easy maintenance and repairs, Ideal boilers boast readily available parts, minimising downtime. They provide warranties of up to 12 years, among the longest in the market.
#4 Baxi
- Baxi was founded in 1866 by Richard Baxendale, an iron founder, in Preston, Lancashire.
- Baxi Heating is currently part of the BDR Thermea Group, which was formed in 2009.
- Baxi Heating owns several other well-known heating brands, including Potterton Commercial and Main Heating.
According to a Which? survey, Baxi was ranked 3rd out of 16 boiler brands, scoring highly for reliability (5 stars) and customer satisfaction (4 stars).
Baxi offers a range of boiler types, including combi, system, and heat-only (regular) boilers to suit different home sizes and heating requirements. Also, it manufactures LPG boilers for homes not connected to the mains gas network.
Baxi is also committed to a greener future. Their Sustainability Pledge aims for all products to be compatible with low-carbon energy by 2025, supporting a net-zero future.
Baxi Heating owns several other commercial heating brands, including Remeha, Potterton Commercial, Andrews Water Heaters, and Heatrae Sadia. As of 2024, Heatrae Sadia is the 2nd best electric combi boiler brand on the UK market.
#5 Viessmann
- Viessmann was founded in 1917 in Hof, Germany by Johann Viessmann as a small workshop specialising in steel boiler construction.
- The company is still family-owned, now in its fourth generation of Viessmann leadership.
- In 2022 the company employed 14,500 people and reported annual sales of £3.4 billion.
Viessmann specialises in condensing oil and gas boilers, known for their quiet operation and focus on sustainability. For example, their ESyCool green cool energy solution received the IKU Award, showcasing their commitment.
Also, Viessmann offers solar thermal systems and heat pumps, promoting a greener future. For ultimate efficiency, they even provide combined heat and power (CHP) systems.
The company extends its expertise to ventilation and air conditioning systems, integrating with digital services, and allowing for smart home management.
Also, customer satisfaction seems to be a priority for Viessmann, with a high rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars on Trustpilot based on over 3,000 reviews.
Find the best boiler installers in the UK
Undoubtedly, replacing your boiler is a significant decision. Yet, the question of “What is the best boiler to buy” can feel daunting. Here’s the truth: there’s no single “best” option for everyone.
While affordability is a factor, don’t sacrifice quality for a lower price tag. After all, the most efficient boiler becomes more than just an appliance; it’s the heart of your home’s comfort.
We understand the challenge of navigating the many excellent boiler brands on the market. Leading names like Worcester Bosch, Vaillant, Ideal, Baxi, and Viessmann consistently deliver on key aspects: reliability, efficiency, innovation, and affordability. This provides a strong foundation for your search.
To find the perfect boiler for your home, consider these steps:
- Brand reputation: Firstly, research brands with a proven track record of quality, customer satisfaction, and reliability. Online reviews and consultations with industry experts can offer valuable insights.
- Understanding your needs: Evaluate the size of your home, the number of bathrooms, and your typical hot water usage. This will help determine the right boiler size and type (combi, system, or conventional) for your specific needs.
- Prioritising features: Also, consider features that resonate with your preferences. This might include smart home compatibility, extended warranty options, or innovative technologies like self-modulation for enhanced efficiency.
- Comparison is key: Don’t settle for the first offer. Get quotes from several boiler installers to compare prices, services offered, and which boilers on our list best suit your heating requirements.
- Professional installation is crucial: Entrust the boiler installation to a qualified and experienced technician. This ensures proper operation and prioritises safety in your home.
All in all, by following these steps and considering the leading brands, you’ll be able to choose the boiler that perfectly balances your needs with exceptional performance. Remember, a well-informed decision paves the way for a warm and comfortable home for years to come.
However, whether you’re searching for the best electric boiler or the most reliable one, you first need an installer you can trust. Yet finding one can be a real challenge when done alone.
GreenMatch is ready to do the heavy lifting for you. Simply complete our 30-second questionnaire, and we’ll provide you with up to 3 quotes from experienced boiler experts. Our service is free and non-binding, just click below to begin.
- Quotes from local engineers
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FAQ
Brontë is an experienced writer and editor for GreenMatch. Her passion for sustainability and renewable energy drives her to stay at the forefront of green-energy trends.
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