Cheap Boilers UK: Best Budget Models & Low-Cost Installation

Cheap Boilers UK: Best Budget Models & Low-Cost Installation

At Heatable, we know a new boiler can feel like a wallet-busting hurdle, especially with UK households shelling out an average of £1,340 a year on gas and electricity, according to Ofgem’s 2025 data.

But here’s the good news: an efficient, reliable boiler doesn’t have to cost the earth. Whether you’re eyeing a space-saving combi, a robust system boiler, or a traditional regular boiler, there are plenty of ways to keep your home toasty without blowing your budget.

From the UK’s cheapest boiler models to savvy installation hacks and flexible payment plans like boiler finance or our Heatable One subscription, we’ve got everything you need to make your boiler upgrade affordable and stress-free.

Let’s dive in and explore how to heat your home for less.

Quick takeaways:

  • The most affordable boiler on the market right now is the Baxi 624 Gas Combi, priced at around £860 before installation.

  • But cheapest doesn’t always mean best - it’s worth balancing affordability with award-winning models and strong aftercare, like the Alpha E-Tec NX.

  • Gas boilers remain the most economical to run, as mains gas is still the lowest-cost domestic energy source in the UK.

  • To avoid cutting corners on quality or warranty, consider a boiler subscription or finance plan - a smart way to spread the cost without compromise.

The Cheapest Boiler Models in the UK

With over 70% of UK homes opting for compact combi boilers (Energy Saving Trust), it’s clear that affordability and efficiency are top priorities for British households.

Thankfully, you don’t need to spend a fortune to get an A-rated boiler that slashes energy bills by up to £300 a year compared to old G-rated models.

Below, we break down the cheapest combi, system, and regular boilers, each offering solid performance and warranties to keep your home warm for the long haul.

Combi Boilers - Who’s the Cheapest?

Perfect for small to medium homes with one or two bathrooms, combi boilers heat water on demand, saving space and money.

The Baxi 600 Combi 2 (24kw) is a budget champion, priced between £860 and £1,100. With 94% efficiency and a 7-year warranty, it’s built to last and can reduce your annual energy costs significantly.

For even tighter budgets, the Alpha E-Tec NX (28kw) starts at just £689. Despite its low price, it packs a punch - a stainless steel heat exchanger, a compact design that reduces installation labour, and a warranty of up to 13 years when installed with specific controls.

It’s an ideal option for homeowners who want affordability without sacrificing quality or reliability.

System Boilers - Best for Bigger Homes

Designed for larger homes with multiple bathrooms, system boilers work with a hot water cylinder to deliver consistent heat and water pressure.

The Alpha E-Tec S (20kw) is a steal at £834, boasting 93% efficiency and a 5-year warranty. It’s a great fit for families needing reliable hot water for simultaneous showers.

For a slightly higher investment, the Baxi 800 System (18kw) ranges from £1,000 to £1,200 but offers a 10-year warranty and premium components, ensuring longevity for the 10-15 years a well-maintained boiler typically lasts.

Regular Boilers - Ideal for Traditional Systems

Known as heat-only boilers, regular boilers are best suited to older properties with existing tanks and higher hot water demands. The Alpha E-Tec Regular (15kw) is a front-runner at £710, delivering 93% efficiency and a 7-year warranty - a practical, cost-effective option for heritage homes.

For those loyal to trusted brands, the Worcester Bosch Greenstar Ri (12kW) is a popular upgrade. Priced between £900 and £1,200, it offers a 10-year warranty and is backed by Worcester Bosch’s impressive 4.8/5 Trustpilot rating, earned from thousands of UK reviews.

To help you compare these budget-friendly options, here’s a table summarising the cheapest boilers in the UK:

Boiler Type

Model

Price Range

Efficiency

Warranty

Key Features

Combi

Baxi 600 Combi 2 (24kW)

£860-£1,100

94%

7 years

Compact, energy-saving, reliable

Combi

Alpha E-Tec NX (28kW)

£689-£900

93%

Up to 13 years

Stainless steel exchanger, budget-friendly

System

Alpha E-Tec S (20kW)

£834-£1,000

93%

5 years

Ideal for larger homes, cost-effective

System

Baxi 800 System (18kW)

£1,000-£1,200

93%

10 years

Long warranty, premium build

Regular

Alpha E-Tec Regular (15kW)

£710-£900

93%

7 years

Great for older homes, affordable

Regular

Worcester Bosch Greenstar Ri (12kW)

£900-£1,200

92%

10 years

Trusted brand, durable

Please note: these prices are subject to change, you can check the latest prices here.

🏆 Verdict:

  • Best Budget Option: Baxi 400 Combi 24kW – Ideal for those seeking the lowest upfront cost without compromising on essential features.

  • Best Value for Warranty: Alpha E-Tec Plus NX 33kW – Offers a longer warranty period, providing added peace of mind.

  • Reputable Brand Choice: Worcester Bosch Greenstar 2000 25kW – Known for reliability and quiet operation.

These models prove you can get an energy-efficient boiler that lasts a decade or more without breaking the bank. But affordability isn’t just about the upfront cost - quality and aftercare matter just as much, which is where brands like Alpha shine.

🎥 Still unsure which budget boiler is worth your money?

Watch our quick video guide below - we break down top models, pricing, and what actually matters when buying cheap.

Installation Hacks to Save Hundreds

The average cost of a straightforward combi boiler installation in the UK is £2,802, but more complex jobs, like switching boiler types, can climb to £4,500.

Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to keep installation costs down while ensuring a Gas Safe registered engineer does the job right. Here are our top hacks to save money:

  1. Opt for a Like-for-Like Swap: Replacing your existing boiler with the same type (e.g., combi for combi) in the same location is the cheapest option, often costing as little as £1,600 and completed in a single day. Changing boiler types or moving the unit requires extra pipework and labour, which can inflate costs significantly. If your current setup meets your needs, stick with it to save.

  2. Compare Multiple Quotes: Prices vary between installers, so don’t accept the first offer. Heatable’s online quote tool lets you compare fixed prices from Gas Safe engineers in just 60 seconds, potentially saving you £500 or more. Aim to get at least three or four quotes to ensure you’re getting the best deal.

  3. Time Your Installation Wisely: Heating engineers are busiest in winter, when demand drives up prices. Booking your installation in spring or summer, when engineers have quieter schedules, can secure lower rates and faster service. Plus, a summer swap means less disruption if your heating’s off for a day.

  4. Tap Into Government Grants: Schemes like the Boiler Upgrade Scheme or ECO4 can provide up to £7,500 for eligible households, particularly for low-carbon options like hybrid systems. With energy efficiency a priority for the UK government, these grants are a lifeline for low-income households or those upgrading to greener tech. Check with your local council or energy agencies to see if you qualify.

  5. Ask About Trade-In Discounts: Some installers offer deals if you trade in your old boiler, knocking a bit off the final bill. It’s a simple way to lower costs, so always ask your engineer about this perk.

  6. Bundle Servicing Plans: Many installers, including Heatable, offer discounted installation if you sign up for an annual servicing plan. Since regular servicing extends your boiler’s lifespan to 10-15 years and keeps warranties valid, this can be a win-win for your wallet.

By combining these hacks, you can significantly reduce installation costs without compromising on safety or quality.

“Always double-check that your engineer is Gas Safe registered to protect your home and your boiler’s warranty.” - Phil Cox, Director of Sales at Heatable

Why Alpha Boilers Are a Budget Buyer’s Dream

When it comes to getting the most value for your money, Alpha Heating Innovation stands out as a brand that delivers affordability, quality, and aftercare in spades.

Based in Kent and part of Italy’s Immergas Group, Alpha has over 50 years of experience and a stellar 4.8/5 Trustpilot rating from nearly 6,000 UK customers.

Here’s why Alpha is a top choice for budget-conscious homeowners:

  • Unbeatable Prices: Alpha’s combi boilers, like the Evoke 28kW, start at just £625, making them hundreds cheaper than premium brands like Worcester Bosch or Viessmann. Even their system and regular models, like the E-Tec S and E-Tec Regular, come in under £900, offering serious savings.

  • High-Quality Components: Don’t let the low price fool you - Alpha doesn’t cut corners. Their boilers feature stainless steel heat exchangers, a premium component that boosts durability and maintains 93% efficiency. This is a rarity in budget models and ensures your boiler stands the test of time.

  • Generous Warranties: Alpha offers warranties ranging from 5 to 13 years, with the E-Tec Plus combi boasting an exclusive 10-year warranty when purchased through Heatable. These long warranties provide peace of mind, especially since regular servicing (which Alpha makes easy) keeps them valid.

  • Hassle-Free Aftercare: With a nationwide network of service engineers and user-friendly controls like the Comfort 2-Channel thermostat, Alpha ensures maintenance is straightforward. Their compact boiler designs also simplify installation, reducing labour costs and making them a favourite for engineers and homeowners alike.

  • Trusted by the UK: Alpha’s focus on affordability and reliability has earned them a loyal following. Their boilers are designed to meet the needs of British homes, from small flats to sprawling Victorian houses, making them a versatile choice for any property.

Alpha proves you don’t need to sacrifice quality for a low price, making them a standout option for anyone looking to save without compromising on performance or aftercare.

Alpha E-Tec NX Boiler Pros and Cons

Making a Boiler Affordable: Finance, Subscriptions, and More

A new boiler is a smart investment, but with installation costs averaging £2,802 for a combi swap, paying upfront isn’t always feasible.

That’s where flexible payment options come in, making a quality boiler accessible to every budget.

Here’s how you can spread the cost and keep your finances in check:

Boiler Payment Option

How It Works

Boiler Finance

0% APR over 3–4 years or 11.9% APR over longer terms. No deposit required. Example: £2,200 boiler from £26/month. Options available for all credit ratings.

Learn More

Heatable One Subscription

Monthly subscription includes A-rated boiler, install, servicing, and repairs. No upfront costs. Includes brands like Alpha, Worcester Bosch, and Baxi.

Learn More

Government Support

ECO4 scheme offers free or low-cost boilers for low-income households. Boiler Upgrade Scheme provides up to £7,500 for greener systems. Eligibility required.

Learn More

Seasonal Discounts & Deals

Look for fixed-price quotes, brand partnerships, and seasonal offers. Extras like extended warranties and smart thermostats can cut long-term costs.

Get a Free Quote

Paying Upfront

One-time payment covers the full boiler and installation cost. No interest or contracts. Average combi swap is ~£2,800. Best for those with savings and no need for flexibility.

Get a Free Quote

These options make a new boiler achievable, no matter your budget. With Heatable, you can get an instant fixed-price quote online and have your boiler fitted as soon as tomorrow, so you’re never left in the cold.

Wrapping Up

A cheap boiler installation is entirely possible if you choose the right model, use cost-saving installation hacks, and take advantage of flexible payment plans.

Budget-friendly boilers like the Baxi 600 Combi 2 or Alpha E-Tec NX offer A-rated efficiency and long warranties, while Alpha’s stainless steel components and top-notch aftercare ensure you get premium performance without the premium price.

Installation tricks like like-for-like swaps, off-peak booking, and government grants can save you hundreds, and Heatable’s finance options or Heatable One subscription make payments manageable for any household.

With the average UK household spending £1,340 a year on energy, an efficient boiler is a smart way to cut costs and keep your home warm.

Ready to make your move? Use Heatable’s 60-second online quote tool to compare fixed prices from Gas Safe engineers and explore finance options. From instant quotes to next-day installation, we’ve got you covered. Let’s heat your home the affordable way!

Get Your Quote Now! Click here for a fixed-price quote and discover how easy it is to get a new boiler on your terms.

Disclaimer: Prices are based on 2025 market estimates and may vary. Always consult a Gas Safe registered engineer for accurate quotes. Heatable acts as a credit broker, not a lender, and finance is subject to status and credit checks.

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