Electric Boiler Installation Guide

Electric boilers are becoming a serious alternative to gas heating for many UK homeowners and landlords. Whether you live in a flat without a gas supply, own a rental property, or want a simpler low-carbon heating system, understanding how electric boiler installation works is essential before making a decision. 

This guide explains everything you need to know — from installation requirements and costs to efficiency, suitability and long-term considerations — in plain, practical terms.

Why Are More UK Homeowners Choosing Electric Boiler Installation?

Electric boilers are becoming more popular is largely down to changes in how homes are built, heated and regulated in the UK. Electric boilers do not rely on fossil fuels, which makes them attractive as the UK moves towards lower-carbon heating solutions. 

They are compact, quiet and can be installed almost anywhere inside the home, including cupboards and utility spaces where traditional boilers would struggle.

For properties without access to the gas network, electric boiler installation offers a straightforward way to run a full central heating system without oil, LPG or solid fuel. Many homeowners also appreciate the reduced safety risks, as electric boilers produce no combustion gases and eliminate the need for flues or ventilation.

What Are The Pros And Cons Of Electric Boiler Installation?

Advantages

• No gas supply required

• High energy efficiency

• Compact and quiet operation

• No flue, emissions or combustion

• Lower maintenance requirements

Disadvantages

• Higher running costs than gas

• Electrical upgrades may be needed

• Less suitable for very large or poorly insulated homes

How Does Electric Boiler Installation Work In The UK?

Installing an electric boiler is simpler than many people expect. An electric boiler heats water using internal electric heating elements, then circulates that water through radiators or underfloor heating in the same way as a gas boiler. The system can also supply hot water via a cylinder, depending on the setup.

Installation begins with an assessment of your home’s heating demand and electrical supply. The installer will check whether the existing electrical infrastructure can support the boiler’s power requirements. 

Once approved, the boiler is mounted, connected to the central heating pipework and wired into a dedicated electrical circuit. After pressure testing and commissioning, the system is set up with controls and thermostats to ensure safe and efficient operation.

What Are The Electrical Requirements For Electric Boiler Installation?

The electrical requirements are one of the most important factors to understand before proceeding with installing an electric. Electric boilers draw significantly more power than standard household appliances, which means the electrical supply must be carefully assessed.

Smaller electric boilers may operate on a single-phase supply, which is common in most UK homes. Larger properties, however, often require higher-output boilers that may need three-phase electricity. 

The consumer unit must have sufficient capacity, and a dedicated circuit with appropriate protection is always required. In some cases, upgrades to the incoming supply or fuse board may be necessary before installation can go ahead.

How Much Does Electric Boiler Installation Cost In The UK?

The cost of installing an electric boiler depends on the boiler output, the property’s electrical capacity and how complex the installation is, but it can be broken down into three clear areas: the cost of the unit, the total installed price and ongoing running costs.

The electric boiler unit itself typically costs between £1,500 and £3,500 in the UK. Smaller boilers designed for flats and one-bedroom homes sit at the lower end of the range, while higher-output electric boilers suitable for larger properties cost more due to increased power capacity and internal components.

When it comes to the total cost including installation, most homeowners can expect to pay between £2,000 and £5,500. This usually includes the boiler, professional installation, connection to the existing heating system, electrical certification and commissioning. 

Costs can rise above this range if the property requires electrical upgrades, such as a new consumer unit, cabling improvements or a three-phase power supply for larger systems.

Running costs are where electric boilers differ most from gas boilers. On average, electric boiler running costs range from £1,500 to £3,000 per year for a typical UK home, depending on property size, insulation quality, usage patterns and electricity tariffs. 

Homes that are well insulated, use smart heating controls or benefit from off-peak tariffs or solar panels can significantly reduce these costs. Smaller flats and low-usage rental properties often sit at the lower end of the running cost range.

While electric boiler installation can be more affordable upfront than installing a gas system in properties without an existing gas connection, it’s important to balance installation savings against long-term electricity costs. This is why a tailored assessment is essential before making a final decision.

Are Electric Boilers Expensive To Run Compared To Gas?

This is one of the most common concerns. Electricity costs more per kilowatt hour than gas, which means running costs are usually higher in homes with high heat demand.

That said, electric boilers are extremely efficient, converting almost all the electricity they use into heat. When installed in well-insulated homes and combined with smart controls, off-peak tariffs or renewable energy such as solar panels, running costs can be kept under control. For smaller homes or low-usage properties, the difference may be less significant than expected.

What Size Electric Boiler Do You Need For Your Home?

What size electric boiler you need depends on several factors, including property size, insulation quality, number of radiators and hot water demand. Oversizing a boiler can increase running costs unnecessarily, while undersizing can leave your home struggling to stay warm.

A professional installer will calculate heat loss and assess your system before recommending a boiler size. This ensures the system delivers consistent comfort without excessive energy use, which is especially important given electricity pricing.

Can Electric Boiler Installation Work With Existing Radiators?

Yes electric boilers can work with existing radiators, provided the system is in good condition. Electric boilers are compatible with standard wet central heating systems and can reuse existing pipework and radiators.

However, older systems may benefit from upgrades. Poorly sized or inefficient radiators can increase running costs, and sludge or corrosion within the system should be addressed before installation. A system flush and radiator assessment are often recommended to maximise efficiency and performance.

How Long Does Electric Boiler Installation Take?

Electric boiler installation takes is typically shorter than gas boiler installations. In most cases, installation can be completed within a single day, assuming the electrical supply is already suitable.

If upgrades are required, the process may take longer, but disruption is still usually minimal compared to other heating system changes.

How Energy Efficient Are Electric Boilers In Practice?

The efficiency of electric boilers is one of their strongest selling points. Unlike gas boilers, which lose heat through flues, electric boilers deliver almost all input energy as usable heat. This makes them particularly effective in modern, well-insulated homes.

When paired with modern thermostats, zoning controls and good insulation, electric boilers can provide precise, responsive heating with minimal waste.

When Is Electric Boiler Installation The Right Choice For A Property?

Choosing to install an electric boiler depends heavily on the type of property and how it is used. Homes without a gas connection are the most obvious candidates, but electric boilers can also work well in smaller or well-insulated homes where heat demand is lower.

They are particularly suitable for flats and apartments where installing a flue would be difficult or impossible. Landlords often choose electric boiler installation for rental properties because it simplifies compliance, reduces safety checks and lowers maintenance responsibilities. 

For homeowners planning extensions or renovations, electric boilers can also be used as a secondary or zoned heating solution.

Should You Choose Electric Boiler Installation Or Another Heating System?

Choosing an electric boiler installation or an alternative depends on your priorities. Heat pumps offer lower running costs but require higher upfront investment and space for external units. Gas boilers remain cheaper to run but rely on fossil fuels and ongoing safety checks.

Electric boilers sit between these options, offering simplicity, safety and lower installation complexity, especially where gas is not available.

Thinking About Electric Boiler Installation For Your Home?

If you’re already exploring electric boiler installation, it’s important to get expert advice early. Boilers 2 Go can assess your property, recommend the correct boiler size and confirm whether your electrical system is suitable, helping you avoid costly mistakes later.

FAQs About Electric Boiler Installation

Do Electric Boilers Need A Hot Water Cylinder?

Some electric boilers require a hot water cylinder, while others can provide hot water on demand depending on the system design.

Can Electric Boilers Be Installed In Cupboards?

Yes, electric boilers are compact and flue-free, making them suitable for cupboards, utility rooms and enclosed spaces.

Are Electric Boilers Noisy?

Electric boilers operate very quietly because they have no burners, fans or combustion processes.

Can You Replace A Gas Boiler With An Electric Boiler?

Yes, but the electrical supply must be assessed first to ensure it can handle the increased load.

Do Electric Boilers Affect EPC Ratings?

Electric boilers can improve EPC ratings when installed alongside insulation and energy-efficient controls.