Choosing the right boiler
The right boiler depends on the property, not on which brand is currently being promoted. Three main types: combi boilers heat water on demand and don't need a cylinder (good for smaller homes or properties where there's no space for a tank); system boilers work with an unvented cylinder and suit homes with higher hot water demand or multiple bathrooms; regular (heat-only) boilers suit older heating systems with a header tank in the loft.
For homes in rural Dorset and Devon on oil rather than mains gas, the considerations are similar but with an oil-fired appliance. Some properties are also now well-suited to alternatives: see air source heat pumps for cases where a boiler replacement isn't necessarily the best option.
We don't push a particular brand. We'll tell you which type suits the property and your hot water demand, and give you a straight choice of manufacturers in that category with a clear view of the trade-offs.
The installation process
A like-for-like boiler replacement in the same position is typically a one-day job. Moving the boiler to a different location (a loft, a utility room, a new-build cupboard) adds time because of new flue runs and pipework. We'll tell you upfront what's involved.
We balance the system after fitting to make sure all radiators heat evenly, fit a magnetic filter to protect the new boiler from sludge, and commission the appliance through the manufacturer's process. This matters for warranty: a boiler that isn't commissioned properly through the manufacturer's system can void the warranty.
Where the existing system has significant sludge buildup, a powerflush before or during the installation is worth doing. We'll assess the system and give you a view on whether it's needed.
Gas Safe and certification
All gas boiler work is carried out by a Gas Safe registered engineer. This is a legal requirement, not a preference. We issue a Gas Safe certificate on completion, which you'll need for insurance and for any future sale of the property.
We also register the boiler installation with the manufacturer to activate the warranty, and notify Building Control via the Competent Persons scheme so you don't need a separate Building Regulations application. It's all handled as part of the job. For existing boiler problems rather than a full replacement, see boiler repair.
What our customers say
"Oakley upgraded our heating to a pressurised system, fitted a new oil tank, and took care of several other jobs. Really knowledgeable and easy to work with, all done to a high standard at a competitive price."
Dorchester · Checkatrade