Electric Boiler Installation Guide to Fitting & Different Types

It is important to plan and understand the process before installing an electric boiler.

We’ll walk you through the entire process of installing an electric boiler, from choosing the right size, to hiring qualified professionals, costs and maintenance. Let’s begin with the basics.

What is an Electric Boiler?

Electric boilers heat water using electricity. The heated water is then circulated through the radiators and underfloor heating systems in your home. The element inside the boiler (like a large kettle) heats the water. When you turn on the heating, water from outside flows into your boiler, is heated, and then pumped out to heat your home.

This is a simple but effective way to keep your home warm and cozy.

Can I run an electric boiler using a ring main?

In general, it is not recommended that an electric boiler be powered by a ring main. Electric boilers require more power than a standard mains ring can provide. A ring main could overload your circuit and cause electrical problems or safety hazards.

What is a circuit dedicated?

A dedicated circuit is a circuit designed to power one appliance or device. This is a circuit which runs from the main electrical panel directly to your electric boiler. No other devices or outlets are connected.

Does an electric boiler need its own circuit for electricity?

Electric boilers require their own electrical supply circuit. They use a lot of energy, more often than other household appliances. A separate circuit will ensure that your boiler receives a reliable, stable power supply while not interfering in other electrical devices. This will also prevent overloading which can trip circuit breakers and, worse still, cause a fire.

What cable should I use?

The type of cable that you choose for your electric heater is important. Using the wrong cable can lead to an overheating problem, a loss of power, or even a fire. Electric boilers require a high-current cable. You’ll typically need a thick cable with a high capacity, which is often 10mm2 in size or larger depending on how much power the boiler requires.

Electric boiler operating costs

Electric boilers can have a wide range of operating costs. The cost of running an electric boiler depends on factors such as your electricity tariff and how often you heat your home.

Electric boilers tend to be more expensive than gas ones, because electricity is more expensive per unit than gas. They are often more efficient which can help offset some of the costs. An average electric boiler costs around PS1,717 per year for a typical three-bedroom house.

What is the Best Electric Boiler for Your Home?

When choosing the best electric boiler, you need to consider several factors.

The size of your business or home

When choosing an electric boiler, the size of your home is important.

• For small apartments or homes (with 1 bathroom), a boiler with a power output of 4-11 kW is sufficient.
• For medium-sized homes (between 2 and 3 bathrooms), look for boilers with a power between 11 and 20 kW.
• You may need up to 35 kW for large homes with 3+ bathrooms.
• Small businesses may need 20-30 kW, depending on their usage.
• Commercial spaces larger than 40 kW may need more power.

These are only general guidelines. You may have different needs depending on the insulation, the number of radiators and how much hot water you use.

How to calculate your heating and hot-water requirements

As a rule, you should allocate 1.5 kW per radiator. Add 3 kW if you also need hot water. A home with six radiators, for example, would need about 12 kW (6×1.5 kW + 3kW).

Electric Boilers Types

• Electric combi-boilers: These boilers do not need hot water storage tanks and can provide hot water when needed. These are very popular in small and medium homes, especially those with limited space.
• Heat only boilers: These boilers require a separate hot-water storage cylinder, and are ideal for homes with several bathrooms.
• System boilers: They require a separate hot-water storage cylinder but have built-in parts, making installation simpler and more efficient.

Price considerations

Electric boilers range in price from PS500 up to PS4,500. Installation is not included. Here is a rough breakdown.

• Budget models: PS700 – PS1,500
• Mid-range models: PS1,500 – PS2,500
• High-end models: PS2,500 – PS4,500
• Installing a new system can cost anywhere between PS500 and PS1,500 depending on its complexity.

Electricity supply

The boilers in most homes can be powered by a 230V single phase supply. For larger boilers (above 30 kW), you will need a three-phase 400V supply. This may require upgrading your electrical system.

Professional Assessment

These guidelines can be helpful but it is always better to have a professional assess your situation. An expert heating engineer will give you advice that is tailored to your situation, so you can select the best and most cost-effective solution for your home or office.

Prepare for Electric Boiler Installation

Installing the electric boiler in your home is the next step after you have chosen the best one for your home. The installation process involves:

• Hiring qualified professionals
• Get the necessary permits
• Prepare the installation site for a compliant and smooth electric boiler installation

Hiring qualified professionals

It’s not a job you can do yourself. Hire an electrical or heating engineer who is able to handle both plumbing work and electrical work. This is especially true if you are switching from gas heating to electric heating.

Heating engineers are responsible for the installation of the boiler and also to ensure that it complies with the building regulations. This includes checking the boiler’s electrical label.

It is therefore recommended that you choose a company with certified plumbers, electricians and Gas Safe engineers to provide a complete, compliant and safe Electric Boiler Installation in London.

Get the necessary permits

It is important to obtain all necessary approvals or permits before starting the installation.

Electric boiler installation must comply with relevant safety and building standards. Installing an electric boiler is easy with a reputable service.

The local council’s regulations on safety and compliance should be followed when disposing of an old boiler.

Prepare the installation site

A professional should inspect your electrical system before installing an electric boiler to make sure it is capable of handling the power consumption. This includes:

• In older buildings, it is important to check the wiring condition.
• Assuring that the installation site is equipped with an electrical supply circuit dedicated to it, and a circuit breaker of the correct size
• Make sure that the electric boiler does not receive its power from a ring main

It is vital for the safe operation of the system to install a dedicated breaker at the distribution board. This should be connected with the right size and type electrical cable.

Installing an isolation switch next to the electric boiler is important for emergency situations and safe maintenance.

Electric boilers are designed to be space-saving, allowing for flexible installation. This reduces installation costs and complexity.

Conclusion

The ins and the outs of electric heating systems have been explored, from choosing the best one for your house to the installation, maintenance and troubleshooting process.

They are a great solution for heating modern homes because of their high energy efficiency and compatibility with renewable sources.

Electric boilers have higher operating costs than gas ones, but technological advancements, government initiatives and an increased focus on renewable energy sources will likely make them more eco-friendly and cost-effective in the future.

Electric boilers are a major player in the transition to a sustainable and energy-efficient future.