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How Long to Fit a Boiler

How Long Does It Take To Get A Boiler Fitted?

At the Edinburgh Boiler Company, we make it simple – your new boiler installation starts within 48 hours of your first call to us. A standard like-for-like swap takes just one day (4-6 hours) once we’re on site. 

As Scotland’s top-rated boiler installers, including Ideal Platinum and Worceter Bosch accredited installers, we help thousands of happy customers across Edinburgh and the Lothians get warm quickly and safely. Here’s our friendly guide.

How Quickly Can We Start Your Install?

We pride ourselves on being fast and reliable for Edinburgh homeowners. Here’s what that means in simple terms:

  • From your first call – Get a quote same day, survey if needed as soon as possible, confirm details, and our Gas Safe engineers start work within 48 hours.
  • Emergencies – If your boiler’s broken down, we prioritise you – We can come and provide a quick fix and book you boiler installation in at the earliest time.
  • Busy periods – Even then, no aim to ensure job waits longer than it has to to begin. Our award winning customer service team are on hand to assist.

Remember, these are typical examples. Every installation is unique – things like access or surprises in your current system might adjust timings slightly.

Boiler Installation Timescales Comparison

Job TypeTime to Start WorkOn-Site Install Time
Like-for-like swap48 hours4-6 hours
Combi conversion48 hours8-12 hours (1-2 days)
Back boiler unit (BBU) to combi48 hours2-3 days
Boiler relocation48 hours1-2 days
System upgrade (smart controls)48 hours6-10 hours
Emergency breakdown24-48 hours4-6 hours
New build/full re-pipe48 hours2-3 days

Table shows examples only – your exact time may differ based on your home’s setup. We’ll always explain upfront if anything changes.

Like-for-Like Swaps Explained (Our Quickest, Easiest Option)

This is ideal if you’re upgrading the boiler in its current spot.

Our friendly engineers arrive on time, pop down dust sheets to keep things tidy, safely disconnect and remove your old boiler (we handle disposal), slot in a reliable new Worcester Bosch or Ideal model, reconnect the gas with a fresh isolation valve if helpful, tidy up the electrics, adjust the flue, test pressures gently, balance the temperatures, set up controls, and give you a relaxed handover demo. 

On-site: 4-6 hoursExample only – unique homes might need a bit more or less time if small issues pop up.

Back to normal same afternoon!

Combi Conversions: From Tanks to Simple Mains Hot Water

Swap your old tank system for a combi boiler – no more clunky loft tanks and hot water on tap anytime.

We drain everything carefully, lift out header/feed tanks from the attic, cap old pipes neatly, switch to mains pressure setup, install the combi, add safety valves and expansion vessel, balance water flow, and test with real use.

We check your mains pressure first to ensure it works beautifully. 

On-site: 8-12 hours over 1-2 daysJust an example – if your pipes need extra attention, it could shift slightly. So much simpler for everyday life in small or medium homes.

Back Boiler Unit (BBU) to Combi Replacement

Many cosy pre-2000s Edinburgh semis have these old living room fires. We convert them smoothly to modern combi boilers. On-site: 2-3 days after our quick start.


Day 1: Gently strip the fire surround and tiles, remove the BBU from its wall recess, seal the chimney to keep things safe and draught-free.


Day 2: Run new pipes to your kitchen or utility room.


Day 3: Install the combi boiler with a neat wall flue, update controls and wiring, test the whole system. 

Typical example – chimney or access surprises could adjust this. Opens up your living space nicely. We always survey the chimney first.

Boiler Moves & Relocations

Fancy moving your boiler, perhaps from the cupboard to the kitchen during a refit? We check the new spot upfront (flue rules allow up to 12m horizontal safely).

Drain the old system, lay new pipes for gas, hot/cold water and condensate, add electrical wiring.

Then remove the old boiler, fit the new one, connect it all up, repressurise carefully, and check for leaks. Our careful engieers will use dust sheets when rewuired to keep your home spotless. 

On-site: 1-2 daysExample timing – your layout might mean minor changes. Frees up room and feels fresh.

Your Easy Step-by-Step Journey

1. Get Your Quote (Same Day)

Use our free online tool or give us a ring – straightforward Edinburgh prices right away.

2. Quick Survey (If Needed)

A kind engineer visits for 30-45 mins to check pipes, flue and water pressure. Helps spot anything unique about your home early.

3. Pick & Confirm (Straight Away)

Choose your boiler from our range of Ideal and Worceer Bosch boilers perfect, efficient and reliable for homes in Scotland. If you need assistance with funding, why not add finance if helpful as low as (£5.59/week or 0% over 2 years).

4. We Start Work

Our ops manager Ben (formerly with British Gas) gives every job his personal EBC Safety Check. We’ll chat if your job needs any timeline tweaks.

Helpful Prep Tips

  • Clear the area around your boiler and paths to it
  • Arrange parking for our van nearby
  • Move any fragile or precious items aside

Why Homeowners Love Edinburgh Boiler Company

  • Scotland’s #1 on Trustpilot for trusted service
  • Top partners with Worcester Bosch & Ideal – up to 12-year guarantees
  • Fixed, upfront quotes with no surprises
  • Caring for your home like it’s ours

Get your free quote today – we’ll have you warm and sorted soon. Every install is unique, but we’re here to make yours smooth! Keeping Scotland cosy, one happy home at a time!

What if unexpected problems pop up during installation?

No worries – our Gas Safe engineers carry common spares and tools onsite. Minor issues (like a faulty valve) get fixed same day. Bigger surprises? We pause, explain options clearly, and reschedule the next slot (rarely more than 24hrs delay). Your fixed quote covers essentials; extras quoted upfront.

How much disruption is there on install day?

Minimal! We use dust sheets, shoe covers, and work tidy. Expect some noise from tools/pipes (like drilling or copper bending), but no mess left behind. Kettles stay on – we’ll work around your routine. Jobs over 1 day? We tidy fully each evening.

Can I stay home during the installation?

Absolutely, but not required for straightforward swaps. We’ll need access and a contact number. For complex jobs (BBU/combi), your input on layout helps, so staying is ideal. Pets? Secure them safely – we’re animal lovers too!

What if my home has poor water pressure for a combi boiler?

Our pre-install survey tests this free. If marginal, we recommend upgrades like a mains booster pump (fitted same time, ~£400). 95% of Edinburgh homes suit combis – we’ll guide you honestly to avoid disappointment.

Is there a fee for the home survey?

Never! Free for all jobs, same-day slots available. Takes 30-45 mins, no obligation. Saves time/money long-term by spotting issues early. Virtual surveys via photos work for simple swaps.

Do you handle old boiler disposal?

Yes, fully compliant – we remove, recycle responsibly (90%+ materials reused), and provide your Green Waste certificate for records. No landfill, no hassle for you.

Get Your Free Fixed Price Quote