Are you wondering when (or even if) you should trust your boiler installer?
Getting a new boiler can be a stressful experience. After all, it’s an investment. You want to be sure that a) you’ve chosen an installer you can trust to do the best job possible and b) that you’re not going to get ripped off.
So, how will you know whether to trust your boiler installer? Well, there are a few signals to look out for – as well as just trusting your gut.
As an experienced heating engineer serving the Edinburgh area for over 20 years, here are some of the most important things to look for in a boiler installer:
1. They have (the right) experience
You want to ensure your boiler installer is experienced, and has been around for a few years. This should indicate that:
- They have a lot of experience installing boilers in your area
- They’re not suddenly going to disappear overnight
But you should also ensure they have the RIGHT experience. This is also twofold; they should not only have experience installing your brand of boiler, but also the type. You can even use the Gas Safe register to check that your installer has the right qualifications for the job (if you need an LPG combi boiler, for example).
TIP: To ensure your boiler installer has the right experience with your chosen boiler brand, you should choose an accredited installer. This means they’ve gone through training and are approved to install that particular brand. They can even offer you special deals and longer guarantees!
2. They’re a Which? Trusted Trader trusted trader
When choosing the right heating engineer for the job, it can seem like a bit of a minefield. That’s why Which? have done all the checks for you, with their list of Which? trusted traders. That doesn’t mean to say that other heating companies won’t do the job just as well, but it will give you extra peace of mind.
There are other trade affiliations out there, which Which? is the one that’s generally held in the highest regard. I’ve listed and explained about some of the rest in this blog post.
3. They provide a detailed, fixed price quote
It’s so important these days that your boiler installer provides a detailed, fixed price quote. This is because you’ll want to know they’ll take the time with you, answer any questions you have, and quote you for exactly what you need.
A boiler company shouldn’t try to oversell you, or quote you a cheap price before adding in extras like upgrading your gas pipe, power flushing the system, adding a condensing pump etc. All of this should be included in a detailed quote BEFORE you agree to the work.
This helps to ensure there are no nasty surprises later down the line. It’ll also help you get a good feel for the company, and that they’re willing to do things by the book.
4. Their quote matches up with other companies
You should always be getting at least 2 – 3 fixed price detailed written quotes before you go ahead. There’s a very good reason for this. You want to be sure that the company you choose is a) recommending roughly the same as everyone else and b) you’re definitely getting a good price.
When comparing, look at everything they’ve quoted, such as:
- The size/output of boiler (there’s quite a difference between a 34kW and a 38kW for example)
- The type and brand of boiler (combi, regular or system – is it the same model? Is someone offering you a compact version? Why?)
- The length of guarantee you’ll get (some may offer a 10-year guarantee, whereas others may only give you a five or eight years)
- Whether they’re including a magnetic central heating filter as standard? (It should be part of your deal)
- Whether they’re going to cleanse the system
- Whether they’ve included good, economical controls such as a room thermostat
If they’ve said different things to other companies, ask why. The best companies will explain in their quote WHY they have made certain decisions, but if you’re ever unclear of anything, they should be happy to answer you.
TIP: Read my blog post ‘8 Things to Do Before Accepting an Edinburgh Boiler Company Quote’ for more information.
5. They have good online reviews and testimonials
Finally, this should be obvious, but check online reviews and testimonials from previous companies. Try to read between the lines; if the reviews are mostly positive, it’s usually a good sign. However, too many sugary five-star reviews in a very short space of time could set off alarm bells.
Too many bad reviews might signal you to stay away from a company. But again, trust your judgement. If it’s just one or two bad reviews in a sea of five-stars, it could just be down to a personality clash or something else going on behind-the-scenes you aren’t aware of.
Advice from an experienced engineer
The best advice I can give you is to get a feel for your boiler installer and trust your gut when they come out and visit your home. If someone is clean and presentable, been in the business a few years, and presents everything to you in writing, this is generally a good sign.
They should also be happy to take their time listening to your needs, and have a conversation where they can answer all of your questions. If they seem knowledgeable and competent – and their quote seems reasonable – then you won’t go far wrong.
I’ve been to a few customers recently who have been asking me a lot of questions and seem very wary. This could be because they’ve had a bad experience in the past, or are worried we’ll take payment and won’t come back. You should NEVER send payment upfront. If any company asks for this? Run a mile. Only pay when you’re satisfied with the completed job.
And if a deal sounds too good to be true? Sadly, it probably is.
Conclusion
Unsure if you can trust your boiler installer? You’re not alone. Follow the above advice and thoroughly check your boiler installer before agreeing to any work carried out. And NEVER send payment up front. Trust your gut when speaking to your chosen boiler installer, and take your time getting 2 – 3 fixed price quotes.
If anything doesn’t seem right? Don’t be afraid to ask.
Is there anything else you’d like to know about accepting a boiler quote? Let me know in the comments. I’d love to hear from you!
