A boiler is a piece of equipment that converts energy from gas, oil, or electricity into heat to keep your home warm. Considering both equipment and labor, the total cost of a boiler replacement can range from under $4,500–$10,000 or more. Since a boiler is considered part of your HVAC, your total budget can also increase if your system needs additional work, such as piping repairs or insulation upgrades.
Learn more about the cost of replacing a boiler and other details about this type of heating system in the This Old House team’s detailed article.
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Boiler Replacement Costs
The cost of replacing a boiler varies depending on factors such as the brand, equipment size, and efficiency. A basic boiler can cost less than $3,500, while a top-tier high-efficiency model can exceed $8,000. Labor costs vary depending on your location and project complexity, but can add around $2,000 to your budget.
The table below compares typical boiler sizes based on square footage, along with their estimated price range. Note that the heating capacity of boilers is measured in British Thermal Units per hour (BTU/h). As a general rule of thumb, you need around 30–50 BTU/h per square foot of home area. However, heating needs can vary depending on factors such as your home design and local climate. To ensure you select the right boiler capacity, our team recommends contacting a qualified HVAC contractor.
| Home Size | Typical Boiler Size | Estimated Price Range* |
|---|---|---|
| 1,000 sq ft | 30,000–50,000 BTU/h | $4,000–$6,000 |
| 1,500 sq ft | 45,000–75,000 BTU/h | $4,500–$7,000 |
| 2,000 sq ft | 60,000–100,000 BTU/h | $5,000–$8,000 |
| 2,500 sq ft | 75,000–125,000 BTU/h | $5,500–$9,000 |
| 3,000 sq ft | 90,000–150,000 BTU/h | $6,000–$10,000 |
*We estimated cost ranges based on industry data and market research. For a detailed and accurate quote, we recommend contacting a professional boiler installer near you.
What Factors Affect Boiler Replacement Costs?
The cost of a boiler replacement depends on multiple factors such as unit size and energy efficiency. Understanding these factors is important when comparing boiler quotes from different HVAC installers.
Boiler Size
Like with any piece of home equipment, the cost of a boiler increases along with its size or capacity. If you own a large home or live in a cold-climate region, you can expect to buy a larger boiler. However, you can potentially buy a smaller unit if your home is well-insulated and airtight.
Boiler Efficiency
The annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) is a measurement of the energy efficiency of boilers. Standard boilers typically have an AFUE of 80%, which means they convert 80% of fuel energy into heating for a home. On the other hand, premium efficiency boilers offer 95%–98% AFUE, achieving the same heating output while using less fuel. While high-efficiency boilers are more expensive, they can save thousands of dollars in heating costs during their lifespan.
Boiler Fuel Type
Boilers work by using various fuels to create heat for your home. Boilers most commonly use gas and oil as a fuel source, but you can also find propane and biomass boilers. There are also all-electric boilers, which use resistance heating and electric currents to produce heat rather than fuel combustion. Assuming you compare boilers of the same size, fully electric units are usually more affordable, but combustion boilers tend to have a much lower operating cost.
Warranty Terms and Maintenance Plans
While warranties can help cover the costs if you manufacturing experience issues with your boiler, a maintenance plan can ensure the equipment runs smoothly over time. Boiler manufacturers usually offer warranty coverage ranging from 2–5 years after purchase. However, some brands provide extended warranties of up to 10 years for an additional cost.
Additionally, some boiler installers offer maintenance plans for an extra cost that may include features such as smart system monitoring. These features can help protect your boiler investment, but also increase your budget.
Local Codes and Permitting Requirements
Companies often need to follow local codes and permitting requirements when installing boilers in residential homes. Boiler design and permitting requirements vary by jurisdiction. For example, states such as New York and California have more strict environmental and safety requirements than other locations, which can increase project costs. Permitting fees for HVAC equipment will also vary based on where you live.
Additional System Upgrades
Older HVAC systems may require upgrades beyond a boiler replacement, such as radiator valve repairs or new piping insulation. While these upgrades increase project costs, they can also improve heating efficiency and system performance. If you replace your boiler without addressing these issues, you may not achieve the expected energy savings and reliability.
Boiler Replacement Costs by Brand
Most boiler manufacturers and installation companies don’t publish pricing data online. However, based on our industry research, we estimated typical prices for some popular boiler brands.
| Brand | Price (Without Installation) |
|---|---|
| Bosch | $2,000–$4,500 |
| Bryant | $1,500–$4,500 |
| Buderus | $1,700–$4,500 |
| Burnham | $1,700–$5,500 |
| Crown | $1,800–$5,000 |
| Lennox | $1,700–$6,500 |
| Navien | $2,000–$5,000 |
| Peerless | $1,400–$7,100 |
| Utica | $1,500–$6,500 |
| Rinnai | $1,800–$3,000 |
| Viessman | $1,200–$7,100 |
| Weil-McLain | $1,500–$7,500 |
| Williamson | $1,600–$5,500 |
What Additional Costs Should Homeowners Consider?
Boiler replacements often involve additional work, particularly in homes with older systems. Here are some common expenses you may need to consider when planning a boiler installation or upgrade.
Piping Repairs or Upgrades
Unlike furnaces, which heat indoor air directly, boilers rely on a network of hot water pipes to distribute heat. If your home’s piping system is damaged or corroded, it can negatively impact the performance of your new boiler. Older piping with significant heat losses may also require an insulation replacement to improve efficiency.
Radiator Repairs or Upgrades
Boiler systems heat your home by circulating hot water through radiators. However, damaged or outdated radiators may limit the effectiveness of your new boiler. Modern radiators often include thermostatic radiator valves (TRV), which offer better temperature control and higher efficiency. If your radiators lack TRVs, you can retrofit them for a cost-effective way to boost performance.
Gas Line and Venting Repairs
If you’re installing a gas boiler but your previous unit used a different fuel, your system will require a corresponding gas line. Even if the older unit was gas-fired, the existing gas line may require upgrades to meet current standards. A qualified boiler installer can also inspect your venting system to ensure all combustion gases are being released outside your home.
Electrical Upgrades
Modern boilers often include smart controls and automation, which may require updates to your electrical installation. Wiring insulation also tends to harden and crack over time—if your wiring shows signs of damage, you must get it replaced for safety purposes and code compliance.
How Can You Save on a Boiler Replacement?
Our team recommends comparing quotes from multiple boiler installers to ensure you’re getting the best possible deal. For this reason, it is important to request detailed quotes with a breakdown of costs, rather than accepting “lump-sum” offers.
Depending on the efficiency of your new boiler, the equipment may qualify for federal or local incentive programs. If you install an ENERGY STAR Certified gas boiler with at least 95% AFUE, you can qualify for a federal tax credit of 30% of project costs, up to a maximum of $600. You may have access to additional incentives depending on your location, which you can find using the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (DSIRE).
When Should You Replace a Boiler?
Generally, a boiler replacement is warranted if you have an old unit with performance issues or wasting fuel due to low efficiency. Here is a list of some common scenarios where a boiler replacement makes sense:
- Your boiler has reached the end of its lifespan, which is typically 15 or more years.
- You have an inefficient boiler and want to save energy with a high-AFUE unit.
- Your boiler is suffering frequent breakdowns that require costly repairs.
- You expanded your home and need a larger boiler.
- You want a modern boiler with features such as smart controls or silent operation.
- You must upgrade your boiler to comply with new building codes or environmental regulations.
Is a Boiler Replacement Worth It?
Deciding if a boiler replacement is worth it is ultimately up to you based on your home needs and budget. However, a boiler replacement can offer three key benefits: energy savings, maintenance savings, and reliability.
Many outdated boilers have an efficiency of less than 70% AFUE, which results in wasting a significant portion of the fuel they consume. In this case, upgrading to an ENERGY STAR Certified boiler with 95%–98% AFUE can result in major heating savings over time. Older boilers may also experience more breakdowns, and you may find buying a replacement is more cost-effective than spending on frequent repairs.
FAQs About Boiler Replacement Cost
What is the life expectancy of a boiler?
The life expectancy of a boiler is typically 15 or more years, according to the boiler manufacturer Viseemann. A professional installation and proper maintenance can help extend a boiler’s service life.
How long does boiler replacement take?
Qualified HVAC installers can usually replace a boiler in three days or less. However, the time required depends on factors such as system complexity or the need for additional upgrades and home repairs.
What is the average cost of a boiler replacement?
The installed cost of a new boiler typically ranges from around $4,000–$10,000. However, boiler replacement costs vary widely depending on factors such as equipment brand and local labor costs. You can expect a higher budget if your boiler system needs additional work, such as piping repairs or electrical upgrades.
How much is a boiler for a 2,000-square-foot house?
A 2,000-square-foot house usually needs a boiler capacity of around 60,000–100,000 BTU/h, which results in an estimated average cost range of $5,000–$8,000. We recommend contacting a professional installer for an exact quote.
Is it worth replacing a 20-year-old boiler?
A 20-year-old boiler is at the end of its typical lifespan. Even if the unit doesn’t break down frequently, it may operate at low efficiency, which can waste fuel and increase your home heating costs.
