Replacing a boiler typically costs between $3,985 and $9,315, depending on the unit’s power source, type, and BTU rating.
A low-end boiler might cost less upfront, but you will pay more in bills in the long run. Higher-end boilers with higher energy ratings cost more to install but offer better value in the long run. Also, adding extra piping or gas line work increases the overall replacement cost.
The costs in this article are based on our survey of boiler replacement costs across the country, including both small and large cities. The final price depends on the power source, boiler type, and BTU rating.
Cost by Location
Boiler replacement cost changes by location. Cities like New York and Seattle have higher labor costs than rural areas because of higher living costs. Homeowners in warmer places usually pay less than those in colder areas, even if they have large homes, because they don’t need as much heating.
See the map below to understand how many BTUs per square foot are required by climatic zone. In general, warmer areas need fewer BTUs than colder climates.
Here are the average costs most homeowners pay to replace boilers in an average residential-sized home:
| Location | Average Boiler Replacement Cost (Including Labor and Materials) |
| Northeast U.S. | |
| Pawtucket, RI | $3,931 – $9,187 |
| New York, NY | $4,582 – $10,734 |
| Southeast U.S. | |
| Dothan, AL | $3,606 – $8,415 |
| Atlanta, GA | $3,687 – $8,607 |
| Midwest U.S. | |
| South Bend, IN | $3,817 – $8,917 |
| Chicago, IL | $4,257 – $9,962 |
| Northwest U.S. | |
| Corvallis, OR | $3,850 – $8,994 |
| Seattle, WA | $4,338 – $10,155 |
| Southwest U.S. | |
| Roswell, NM | $3,687 – $8,607 |
| San Diego, CA | $4,094 – $9,574 |
Cost by Home Size
The size of your home affects the total cost of your boiler replacement. A larger home with more rooms and multiple stories will need a more powerful boiler to heat the entire house. This will cost more than a small, one-story home with minimal square footage.
The BTU rating is the amount of energy it takes to heat 1 pound of water by 1 degree Fahrenheit. The higher the BTU rating, the more powerful and expensive the boiler will be.
Additionally, a Manual J load calculation must be done to determine the boiler size needed for your home. This is calculated considering climate, insulation levels, construction materials, and window or door size and orientation. On average, a Manual J calculation costs around $350.
Here is a breakdown of the average cost by BTU rating and home size:
| Home Size (in square feet) | Boiler Size (in BTUs) | Average Boiler Cost (Including Installation) |
| 1,000 | 30,000 – 48,000 | $1,600 – $2,500 |
| 1,500 | 45,000 – 72,000 | $2,200 – $3,670 |
| 2,000 | 60,000 – 95,000 | $2,680 – $4,380 |
| 2,500 | 75,000 – 119,000 | $3,330 – $5,500 |
| 3,000 | 90,000 – 143,000 | $3,890 – $6,250 |
Cost by Fuel Type
The cost of a boiler depends mainly on the type of fuel it uses. Fuel options include oil, gas, and electricity, each with its associated operating and installation costs.
Electric boilers are usually cheaper to install, while wooden boilers lie at the expensive end. See below how the boiler works depending on various power sources and price ranges:
| Boiler Power Source | Price Range (Including Installation) |
| Electric | $1,975 – $7,500 |
| Propane | $2,800 – $7,500 |
| Gas | $3,700 – $9,250 |
| Oil | $4,425 – $9,000 |
| Wood | $7,000 – $16,000 |
Electric
An electric boiler is the most affordable and easiest to install, but it can be costly to run because it requires a lot of electricity. Also, the heat output of electric boilers is lower than that of other fuel-based boilers. It may not be the most suitable choice for larger households.
Propane
Propane is a clean-burning fuel source that is becoming increasingly popular with homeowners looking to save money on their energy bills. You may need to purchase separate propane tanks or piping for the system if your home does not already have them.
Gas
Gas boilers use natural gas to heat water that circulates throughout the home, providing consistent warmth and comfort. These boilers operate much like a furnace, using a pilot flame to ignite the gas and maintain the desired temperature. Gas boilers are a popular choice because they are efficient and cost-effective ways to heat the home.
See Related: How Much Does a New Furnace Cost?
Oil
An oil boiler is a great option for those without access to natural gas or propane. It uses fuel oil, which is burned in a combustion chamber, to produce hot water or steam. An oil boiler is typically more expensive than a gas boiler, but the cost can be offset by lower energy costs.
Wood
A wood boiler is a heating device that burns wood to generate heat. These are typically used as an alternative to traditional gas and oil heaters. Wood boilers are typically constructed from heavy-duty steel or cast iron and feature an insulated firebox designed to contain the heat generated by the fire.
Cost by System Type
Boilers come in different types, each with its own cost. Conventional or standard boilers are the least expensive, while high-efficiency boilers are the most expensive but have lower operating costs.
System boilers are more popular among homeowners, especially for larger homes. Know more about the different boiler types and their costs:
| Boiler Type | Price Range (Including Installation) |
| Standard | $2,275 – $6,875 |
| System | $3,000 – $6,335 |
| Combinational | $3,550 – $8,500 |
| High-efficiency | $5,050 – $11,000 |
Standard
Standard boilers, also called conventional boilers, are the most common and can provide hot water throughout a home via radiators. This type of boiler requires two tanks and typically uses natural gas, oil, or electricity as fuel. These are ideal for large homes with multiple bathrooms.
If you plan on replacing an old boiler with a standard boiler, you may need to upgrade your radiators and other components to ensure they are compatible with the new system.
System
System boilers are a great option for households with multiple bathrooms, as they simultaneously provide central heating and hot water to all taps. They work by storing hot water in a cylinder until it is needed, reducing the risk of running out during busy times.
Combination
Combination boilers work by taking cold water from your main supply and heating it to the required temperature. The boiler will then use a pump to distribute hot water throughout your home, so you always have hot water when you need it. They are also known as combi boilers and are best suited for small to medium-sized homes.
High-Efficiency
High-efficiency boilers have advanced features such as modulating burners, precise control systems, and condensing technology, which help recycle heat. These are designed to save energy, reduce emissions, and lower operating costs. High-efficiency boilers are available in both gas-fired and oil-fired models, with efficiency ratings of up to 95%.
Cost by Brand
The boiler brand you choose for your replacement project can significantly affect the total cost. In general, expensive brands have higher efficiency ratings and longer warranties.
Below is a list of price ranges for some popular boiler brands:
| Brand | Price Range (Boiler Only) |
| Viessmann | $1,450 – $7,550 |
| Utica | $1,567 – $6,733 |
| Weil-McLain | $1,625 – $7,650 |
| Buderus | $1,700 – $4,450 |
| Burnham | $1,700 – $5,567 |
| Williamson | $1,700 – $5,750 |
| Peerless | $1,733 – $5,967 |
| Bryant | $1,750 – $4,750 |
| Lennox | $1,867 – $6,733 |
| Crown | $1,933 – $5,000 |
| Navien | $2,000 – $5,000 |
| Bosch | $2,033 – $4,567 |
Labor Costs
Plumbers typically charge an hourly rate of $45 to $180 to install a new boiler, with the entire project likely costing from $1,045 to $2,935.
If you are hiring an HVAC professional to install a boiler, expect to pay around $75 to $140 per hour. If the replacement involves any electrical work, you need an electrician, who typically charges between $55 and $105 per hour.
Additional Cost Factors
A boiler replacement is a relatively complex project that involves a variety of different aspects. Here are a few common factors that affect the cost of your project:
Old Boiler Removal
Most contractors include the cost of removing the existing boiler in the job. Getting rid of an outdated boiler can be quite a job, especially if it is in a hard-to-reach spot or is large and heavy. On average, most pros charge $350 to remove the old boiler.
If you are replacing a boiler of a different type, you might need a new gas line, depending on the new type. Expect to spend between $14 and $25 to install a new gas line.
Condensing vs. Non-condensing Boiler
A non-condensing boiler costs $1,450 to $5,100 to install, while a condensing boiler costs $2,050 to $7,100 to install. Over the lifetime of a boiler, condensing models are often more cost-effective than non-condensing models.
Condensing boilers are more efficient and tend to be pricier upfront. They also require bigger flues, more ventilation, and a higher-capacity pump to handle the increased flow of hot water. But the extra upfront costs can be worth it in the long run.
Condensing boilers can save you money on fuel bills and reduce carbon emissions due to their higher efficiency rating of up to 95%. In comparison, standard non-condensing boilers usually range from 80% to 88% efficiency.
Permit
Some state and local governments require permits to install or replace a boiler. It is always a good idea to check your local building codes before beginning the project. In most cases, the contractor you hire will look after all these formalities. Permits typically cost from $50 to $300.
Thermostat
A thermostat allows you to control the temperature of your boiler. Plus, some modern thermostats can even control multiple zones and can help you save energy by automatically adjusting the temperature when you’re away or asleep.
On average, the cost of installing a thermostat for a boiler is between $280 and $480.
Ways to Save on Boilers
If you’re budgeting for a new boiler, here are a few things that keep the price tag low:
- Replace with the same type and same efficiency of boiler.
- Buy an electric boiler, as they cost less up front.
- Ask your pro how many BTUs you need to buy the right boiler.
- Choose affordable brands such as Utica and Viessmann.
FAQ
No, you should not attempt to replace a boiler yourself. Installing or replacing a boiler requires specialized technical knowledge and experience. Improper installation often leads to product damage and can void your warranty. It is always best to hire a pro for a proper installation.
In general, boilers will last up to 15 years with proper maintenance. Keep in mind that boilers older than 10 years may not be as energy-efficient and may require more repairs.
Yes, old boilers can be dangerous. Older models are more likely to be corroded, develop leaky valves, and have other problems that may cause a fire or other damage. It’s essential to have an HVAC technician inspect your boiler regularly to ensure it is safe and energy efficient.
Keep Your Home Warm and Comfortable
Boilers are a popular option for homeowners for their steady and reliable hot water supply. Improper DIY installation can cause injury and damage, and repair costs can exceed the cost of hiring a pro in the first place.
Hiring a licensed and experienced contractor familiar with boiler installation is essential to ensure the job is done correctly and safely.
Luckily, Home Gnome delivers the best home service experience at the click of a button. Book reliable, skilled HVAC technicians or electrical services and leave the rest to us.
Rahul Sattineni contributed to this article.
Read More:
- How Much Does HVAC Repair Cost?
- How Much Does an AC Unit Cost?
- How Much Does HVAC Installation Cost?
- How Much Does HVAC Maintenance Cost?
Main Image: Plumber replaces wall boiler in bathroom. Image Credit: Pixel-Shot / Adobe Stock
Related Posts:
