If your boiler has started to make strange noises or you’ve seen a recent spike in your energy bills, it may be time to replace this critical heating component in your home. But how much does a new boiler cost?
Our cost guide will break down the costs of demolition, equipment, and labor for replacing different types of boiler units. We’ve collected data from RSMeans, a construction materials database used by top-rated HVAC contractors across the United States, to provide the most accurate cost of boiler replacement information.
- Expect to pay between pay between $5,300 and $9,500 for a new boiler in your home.
- There are different types of boilers that all impact the overall cost, such as electric, gas, and wood boilers
- We don’t recommend handling your boiler installation yourself, since it’s complicated process
How Much Does It Cost to Replace Your Boiler?
On average, new boilers cost $6,490, but you can expect to pay between $5,300 and $9,500 depending on the type of boiler you choose, its size, and its efficiency.
These costs are for the boiler itself and don’t include labor costs of $935 to $2,110 and demolition costs of $820 to $2,650. If your boiler replacement project is complicated or you have a large boiler to dispose of, the total boiler replacement cost can exceed $12,000.
| Low Boiler Cost | Average Boiler Cost | High Boiler Cost |
| $5,300 | $6,490 | $9,500 |
How Do Costs Differ By Boiler Fuel Type?
The type of boiler you install is a major factor in its total cost. As shown below, residential oil-fueled boilers cost between $5,300 and $10,180 for the unit, old boiler removal, disposal costs, and labor. Natural gas-fueled boilers cost $6,935 to $9,435. If you want an electric boiler, you may pay between $8,175 and $12,760. Steam boiler costs range from $34,00 to $9,500.
| Fuel Source | Low Cost | High Cost |
| Wood | $3,000 | $10,000 |
| Oil | $5,300 | $10,180 |
| Gas/Propane | $6,935 | $9,435 |
| Electric | $8,175 | $12,760 |
Electric Boiler
The price range for electric boiler replacement is between $8,175 and $12,760 for the boiler and installation. Electric boilers are the most energy-efficient type available. Unlike other boilers that lose heat during energy conversion, electric boilers convert 100% of the fuel source into usable energy for your home. But because electricity is more expensive than natural gas and electric boilers are slow to heat, they may not be the best option for large homes requiring significant heating capacity.
Gas or Propane Boiler
As the least expensive type to run, gas boilers are a popular option. These boilers cost between $6,935 and $9,435 but will likely reduce your energy bills. As with oil boilers, gas boiler systems rely on the combustion of carbon-based fuel in the presence of oxygen to produce steam that provides the heat.
Oil Boiler
The national average cost for an oil boiler is between $5,300 and $10,180. An oil boiler heats your home by using oil to heat water. These boilers can be a great option for homes in rural areas because they don’t require access to a main power grid or gas supply.
Wood Boiler
If you live in a heavily wooded area and have access to significant amounts of timber, then a wood boiler may be your best choice. As the name suggests, wood boilers heat water by burning wood and can be cost-effective if you can rely on free wood to heat your home. These boilers can cost $3,000 to $10,000 on average.
How Does Boiler Size Affect Boiler Replacement Pricing?
The larger the boiler, the more expensive it is, and larger houses require larger boilers because there is more space to heat. Your boiler must be able to regulate the temperature in several rooms and zones.
To estimate the size of the boiler you need, multiply your square footage by the appropriate number of BTUs (British thermal units), depending on your location:
- 20 BTU to 30 BTU: Hot climates (Florida, Texas, and other Gulf Coast states)
- 25 BTU to 35 BTU: Warm climates (California and Southeast states)
- 30 BTU to 45 BTU: Moderate climates (Lower Midwest and Mid-Atlantic states)
- 45 BTU to 55 BTU: Cold climates (Mountain regions)
- 50 BTU to 60 BTU: Freezing climates (Upper Midwest and Northeast)
Whereas larger boilers that can heat 3,000 square feet (sq. ft.) or more can start at $9,500 per unit, smaller boilers for homes that are 1,500 sq. ft. or less might cost $3,405 per unit or less, as shown below.
| Boiler Size | Home Size | Average Costs |
| 20,000 to 60,000 BTU | 1,000 sq. ft. | $3,400 – $6,200 |
| 30,000 to 90,000 BTU | 1,500 sq. ft. | $3,405 – $6,850 |
| 40,000 to 120,000 BTU | 2,000 sq. ft. | $4,675 – $7,325 |
| 50,000 to 150,000 BTU | 2,500 sq. ft. | $5,100 – $7,475 |
| 60,000 to 180,000 BTU | 3,000 sq. ft. | $6,000 – $9,500 |
If you live in a newer, well-insulated, energy-efficient home, you may get by with a smaller boiler. However, if you live in an older home without energy-efficient windows and good wall insulation, you may have to buy a more-expensive larger boiler.
Which Factors Impact Boiler Replacement Cost Estimates?
The boiler prices cited above reflect national averages, but in some cases, costs may be significantly higher. Certain factors can drive up the cost of your boiler, but upgrades may be worthwhile. Boiler installation costs are most impacted by the following:
Brand
As indicated in the table below, the brand of boiler you choose can impact your total cost. Some brands, like Bryant and Burnham, offer cheaper boiler models, whereas others, such as Lennox and Weil-McLain, are more expensive.
| Boiler Brand | Average Cost |
| Bryant | $1,800 – $4,800 |
| Bosch | $2,000 – $4,800 |
| Burnham | $1,500 – $5,500 |
| Crown | $2,000 – $4,800 |
| Lennox | $2,000 – $7,000 |
| Navien | $2,000 – $4,800 |
| Peerless | $1,800 – $4,600 |
| Utica | $2,000 – $6,000 |
| Viessman | $1,500 – $7,500 |
| Weil-McLain | $1,500 – $7,500 |
| Williamson | $1,800 – $5,500 |
The cost difference between brands is also why you should get multiple quotes from local HVAC installers. Each has its own set of brand partners and may offer you better pricing if it carries a less expensive brand.
Condensing Vs. Non-condensing Boilers
Non-condensing boilers are a more traditional boiler type. They have a heat exchange chamber that uses gas or oil to heat the water. During this process, excess moisture and gasses are released through the flue, meaning energy is lost. These boilers are more affordable at $1,500 to $5,000 for the unit.
Condensing boilers have larger heat exchangers that cool the exhaust gasses before they can escape, resulting in condensation. This allows the boiler to reuse the gas and heat your home more efficiently. Condensing boilers are more expensive at an average of $2,000 to $7,000 per unit, as shown below.
| Condensing/Non-condensing Boiler | Average Cost |
| Non-condensing | $1,500 – $5,000 |
| Condensing | $2,000 – $7,000 |
Efficiency
Boiler efficiency is measured by an annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) rating. This percentage tells us how much energy is converted into usable heat and how much is lost during the conversion process. Most new boilers will have an AFUE rating of 80% or higher, but high-efficiency models have AFUE ratings of 90% or more.
As shown below, standard boilers with between 80% and 89% AFUE cost between $5,300 and $9,500 for boiler installation, but you will pay more in energy bills each month. If you live in a moderate or warm climate, you can get by with these less efficient units because you’ll use your boiler less. But if you live in colder or freezing climates, it’s worth paying for the more efficient radiant heating systems with 90% AFUE or higher or getting an ENERGY STAR-certified boiler. These high-efficiency models typically cost between $6,000 and $12,760. Gas boilers that are ENERGY-STAR certified and have an AFUE of at least 95% qualify for the federal tax credit for HVAC equipment.
| Efficiency Rating | Average Cost |
| Standard boiler (80% – 89% AFUE) | $5,300 – $9,500 |
| High-Efficiency boiler (90%+ AFUE) | $6,000 – $12,760 |
System Type
The boiler model and type play a significant role in the overall cost. Conventional or standard boilers are often more affordable than combination boilers and system boilers. Still, many homeowners opt for the latter two because they are better suited for larger homes and can be more energy efficient.
The best type of boiler for your home may depend on your existing boiler system, budget, and home size, so ask your HVAC technician if you are unsure which is best for you. Types of boilers that are often installed in residential homes include:
- Standard or conventional boiler: Standard boilers heat your home using either hot water or steam. Unlike other boilers, conventional boilers can’t provide potable water, so you must install a separate water heater. This does make conventional boilers more affordable at $2,500 to $6,500.
- System boiler: System boiler heat can be used for home heating and water heating. These boilers average $3,000 to $6,500 and have a storage tank for hot water reserves.
- Combination boiler: Combination boilers, commonly referred to as combi boilers, are both hot water heaters and heating systems. Unlike system boilers, combi boilers are tankless and only heat water when needed. This makes combi boilers the most energy-efficient but does make them more expensive at $3,000 to $7,000 for basic boiler models.
Average costs by boiler type are shown below.
| Type of Boiler | Average Cost |
| Standard or conventional | $2,500 – $6,500 |
| System boiler | $3,000 – $6,500 |
| Combination boiler | $3,000 – $7,000 |
| Steam boiler | $2,500 – $9,000 |
| Hot water boiler | $1,500 – $8,000 |
Additional Factors
The boiler and labor are only two components of the total cost of boiler installation. You may need to pay for old boiler removal, permits, new gas lines, and more when you replace your boiler. Here are some of the additional HVAC installation costs that can increase the cost of your boiler replacement project:
- Demolition: If you need to remove your old boiler, you can expect to pay an average of between $935 and $2,110.
- Ductwork: You may need to fix leaks in your ductwork or install new ductwork. Ductwork replacement costs between $15 and $40 per linear foot, so your replacement total will depend on how much needs to be replaced or installed.
- Emergency repairs and replacement: If your boiler breaks down unexpectedly, you may need to pay emergency boiler repair fees to have a technician come to your home as quickly as possible. These service call fees typically cost between $50 and $120.
- Gas lines: If you need to install new gas lines or switch from one fuel type to another, you may need to pay between $300 and $2,000, depending on the extent of the replacement. You may also need to hire plumbers to complete the installation.
- Residential hookup: Residential boiler hookup is often necessary for new installations and permits and can cost between $235 and $550.
- Permits: In some states, you must get a permit for your HVAC installation project and pass an inspection. These permits typically cost between $50 and $300.
- Updated thermostat: If you have an outdated thermostat and install a new one, you can expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $350.
Find HVAC Cost Estimates In Your State
Professional vs. DIY Boiler Replacement
If you find that your boiler is not heating your home as well as it used to, if you hear rattling or booming noises, or if your energy bills are skyrocketing, it’s probably time to replace the boiler. However, this job is for professional HVAC technicians, not DIY dabblers.
Doing Boiler Replacement Yourself
Installing a boiler is a complex project that requires the combined expertise of HVAC technicians, plumbers and even electricians. These professionals will make sure your new boiler is the right size for your home, that it’s installed correctly so it can operate efficiently, and that it’s connected safely.
Thinking about replacing your HVAC system and want to know what to expect? Check out the podcast segment below.
Hiring a Professional for Boiler Replacement
The best way to have your new boiler installed safely and correctly is to have it done by an HVAC professional. You can easily contact an HVAC installer by clicking the button below and following these simple steps:
- Find local experts near you: Use the button below to be connected with the best local HVAC contractors in your area.
- Get several quotes: Gather at least two quotes so you can compare prices and boiler models.
- Explore recommendations: Ask the HVAC technicians which model, efficiency rating, and boiler size they recommend so you can ensure you have the right system for your home.
- Choose a boiler: Compare the quotes you’ve gathered and choose the best one based on your home and budget.
- Set up your boiler replacement: Set up a time for your HVAC crew to come to your home and install your new boiler.
Final Thoughts About Boiler Replacement Cost
On average, it costs between $5,300 and $9,500 to replace a boiler, excluding labor and old boiler disposal costs. The actual cost will depend on the brand chosen, the unit’s efficiency, the type of system, and the other factors we’ve explored in this article. We don’t recommend replacing your boiler yourself because your system must be properly set up — so contact a local professional installer to get quotes and choose the best boiler for your home.
FAQs About Boiler Replacement Cost
Are boilers expensive to replace?
The average boiler replacement cost is between $5,300 and $9,500. This cost can exceed $10,000 once you consider labor costs, demolition, and other costs. If you need a larger, more energy-efficient boiler, a replacement can be expensive.
How much is a boiler for a 2000 sq ft house?
On average, you can expect to pay between $4,675 and $7,325 for a boiler large enough to heat a 2,000-square-foot home. This cost is just for the boiler itself — once you add on labor costs, demolition, and any other replacement costs, your boiler replacement project may exceed $10,000.
How often should a boiler be replaced?
The average lifespan of a boiler is 15 to 20 years. If you want to get the most out of your boiler, it’s best to have an HVAC professional perform annual HVAC maintenance.
Is it worth replacing an old boiler?
If your boiler is 15 years old or older, it’s worth replacing. If your boiler has reached the end of its life, it may not perform as well as it used to, resulting in higher monthly utility bills. Plus, replacing your boiler as a preventative measure will keep it from breaking down when you need it most.
