Whether it's sending steam to radiators or hot water through a baseboard or radiant floor heating system, a boiler is usually run by gas or fuel oil. It's often possible to replace an old boiler or to a more energy efficient one without changing the entire home heating system.
Typical costs:
Replacing an existing boiler runs about $2,500-$4,000 for a mid-efficiency system and $5,000-$9,000 or more for a high-efficiency version.
What should be included:
Installing a replacement boiler can take one to three days or possibly up to a week or more, and complications could leave you without heat overnight. Estimates should include removing and disposing of the old unit.
If the boiler is more than twenty years old, chances are good it's efficiency in converting energy into heat is about 55-65 percent; high-efficiency boilers are 85-90 percent or more.
A heating system with too large of a capacity for your home will not run properly, producing an uncomfortable living environment. A contractor should calculate the actual need.
Many municipalities require a permit for replacing a heating system; check with your local planning department.
Additional costs:
Some local governments require a fire inspection (about $25-$75) for a replacement heating system.
When replacing an old boiler with a more efficient model, it can be necessary to install a chimney liner for about $300-$700 for a gas model and $700-$1,800 for a fuel oil appliance. If this is needed, check that it's included in all price quotes.
Removing an old fuel-oil tank from the basement starts around $300-$1,500 and can cost more depending on how difficult the project is; taking out an abandoned underground oil tank starts around $1,500-$3,000 and goes up depending on the complexity. If removal is needed, ask if it's included in all estimates.
Discounts:
The power company may offer discount packages with local dealers of energy-efficient heating systems. And if you need help with financing, your power company may provide loans for energy-efficient home improvements.
You might not have to buy a new boiler if you get your system an annual tune-up ($80-$250), or you might be able to purchase a smaller (and less expensive) model if you take energy-saving steps such as finding and sealing any air leaks, adding insulation or upgrading/replacing inefficient doors and windows. The American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy offers detailed guidelines.
Consumers buying a boiler with an efficiency rating of at least 90 to 95 percent may be able to claim an income tax credit . The Alliance to Save Energy lists the criteria for the tax credit, which also covers other improvements such as air conditioning, water heaters, windows and doors.
Get several estimates, making clear what is (and isn't) included in each quote. Request and check references; ask about the contractor's length and type of experience; and be sure they're properly bonded, insured and licensed in your state. See if there are any complaints with the Better Business Bureau.
I know its after the fact, but was this a good price for my boiler?
the above price included removal of boiler, installing an automatic water feeder and vents, all gas and elec supplies,return piping,header piping,venting,control wiring and t-stat.labor and taxes 10 yr warranty on boiler castings,2 yrs on other parts and 1 year labor. peerless gas fire steamed boiler model 63 038TDG SP, 118,000 BTU INPUT
Thanks
Price is to include near boiler piping, re-wiring, 7 steam vents with controls, auto water feed, connect water feed to hot water, re-pitch pipes, thermostat, chimney liner, gas vent to chimney with an auto chimney vent to keep heat in the house, re-connect to gas line, etc.
My boiler is a mess and was not piped in properly. As a result, I did not get heat to some rooms, the water did not drain properly back to the boiler and the gas bill for keeping my heat at 68F was pretty high. I am assured the re-pipe will make my gas usage more efficient. I had other estimates at a much lower price, but they never showed after they were approved for a grant. I ended up calling Reckingers. They are much higher than the other guys, but they will do the job right and save me money in the long run. Plus, I do believe they will show up to do the job.
After the boiler stopped functioning we called a heating/cooling company to see what was wrong. They determined that due to the age of the boiler is was not repairable and were prepared to give us an estimate for replacement. I called another plumbing company and they arrived and replaced the thermocoupler and the boiler is now functioning.