What a Boiler Installation from R G Austin Actually Involves
Replacing a boiler is a one to two day job in most domestic properties across Blackheath, Greenwich, and Charlton. The timeline depends on the condition of the existing system, whether the pipework needs upsizing, and how much remedial work the primary circuit requires before the new unit goes in.
Our engineers begin every installation with a detailed heat loss calculation — checking that the replacement boiler is correctly sized for the property's actual heating demand rather than simply matching the unit it replaces. Oversized boilers short-cycle and fail early. Undersized ones run constantly and never reach target temperatures. Neither outcome serves you.
Gas pressure testing follows, confirming the supply to the property can support the new equipment. We then assess the pipework layout and size. Period properties across SE London — particularly Victorian and Edwardian terraces in Blackheath and Charlton — frequently have 15mm primary pipework that was adequate for an older open-vented system but restricts flow on a modern sealed installation.
Every boiler we fit includes an industrial-grade system power flush as standard. This removes the accumulated magnetite sludge that builds up inside older pipe networks and is the primary cause of premature boiler failure and heat exchanger damage. We install a magnetic system filter as part of the same process, protecting the new boiler long-term.
No planning permission is required for standard domestic boiler replacements. The only exceptions are Grade II listed buildings — which require listed building consent for any external flue modifications — and situations where the flue discharge point falls within 300mm of an opening window or ventilation point on a neighbouring property.
- Heat loss calculation and boiler sizing prior to specification
- Gas Safe certified installation with full safety documentation
- System power flush and magnetic filter included as standard
- Inhibitor dosing and commissioning to manufacturer spec
- Gas Safe certificate provided on completion
