Can I Replace My Back Boiler in Crowborough?

Many homes in Crowborough still have old back boilers tucked behind the fireplace. These boilers were popular in the 1970s and 1980s, but today they are inefficient, expensive to run, and increasingly difficult to service because spare parts are scarce.

If you’re wondering “Can I replace my back boiler?” — the answer is yes. In fact, a back boiler conversion is one of the most common upgrade projects we carry out in Crowborough.

What Is a Back Boiler?

A back boiler is a gas boiler fitted behind an open fireplace, usually paired with a hot water cylinder in the airing cupboard and water tanks in the loft. They were a clever space-saving idea at the time, but modern standards have left them behind.

Why Replace a Back Boiler?

There are several reasons Crowborough homeowners choose to replace their back boiler:

Efficiency: Back boilers are much less efficient than modern A-rated boilers.

Cost: Higher gas bills due to wasted energy.

Parts availability: Many models are obsolete, making repairs difficult.

Safety & reliability: Older appliances often fail at the worst time of year.

Space saving: Removing the cylinder and loft tanks frees up valuable storage.

What’s Involved in a Back Boiler Conversion?

Replacing a back boiler isn’t a simple swap — it’s a full heating system upgrade. Here’s what usually happens:

Remove the old back boiler and gas fire from the fireplace.

Decommission and take out the hot water cylinder from the airing cupboard.

Remove the cold water storage tanks and feed & expansion tank from the loft.

Install a modern combination boiler, usually in the kitchen, airing cupboard, or loft.

Run new pipework for heating, hot water, gas, flue, and condensate.

Fit a vertical flue if required (common in Crowborough homes where the boiler is upstairs or in the loft).

Add a condensate pump if a natural drain route isn’t available.

Upgrade system controls and TRVs to meet efficiency standards.

Powerflush or MagnaCleanse the system and add inhibitor to protect the new boiler.

Make good around the old fireplace opening.

How Long Does It Take?

A straightforward boiler swap can often be done in one day.

A back boiler conversion normally takes 3–4 days, because it involves removing the old system, re-routing pipework, and installing a completely new boiler setup.

What Does It Cost?

Every home is different, so the cost of a back boiler conversion depends on:

The type and size of boiler chosen.

Whether a vertical flue is needed.

If a condensate pump has to be fitted.

Any pipework upgrades required.

Because it’s more involved than a like-for-like swap, a back boiler conversion is a bigger investment. But the benefits are clear: lower gas bills, safer operation, extra space, and a boiler that comes with up to 10 years’ manufacturer guarantee.

At Absolute Plumbing & Heating, we always provide a clear, fixed quote upfront, so you know exactly what’s included before work begins.

Why Choose Absolute Plumbing & Heating in Crowborough?

Local family-run business based in Crowborough.

Gas Safe registered with over 25 years’ experience.

Worcester Bosch Accredited Installer – meaning we can offer extended guarantees.

100+ 5-star Google reviews from Crowborough and nearby villages.

Known for reliable service, clear communication, and tidy workmanship.

Ready to Replace Your Back Boiler?

If you live in Crowborough and still have an old back boiler, now is the perfect time to upgrade. You’ll gain a modern, efficient heating system that saves money, frees up space, and keeps your home comfortable for years to come.

📞 Call us today on 01892 652 911 or 07852 130 372 to arrange your free, no-obligation quote.

Or visit our website: absoluteplumbingandheatingcrowborough.

co.uk