What's Involved In New Heating Installation
Initial Survey & Design
We visit your property to assess room sizes, insulation levels, and current heating setup. We calculate heat loss for each room to determine optimal radiator sizes. We discuss your preferences for radiator styles, control options, and any specific requirements like thermostatic radiator valves or smart controls. We then provide a detailed written quote showing exactly what's included.
Radiator Selection
Choosing radiators involves balancing heat output, size, style, and budget. Standard panel radiators are economical and effective. Designer radiators add visual appeal. Towel radiators work well in bathrooms. We'll recommend appropriate sizes based on our heat loss calculations, ensuring each room reaches comfortable temperatures efficiently.
Pipework Installation
New heating systems require pipework running from the boiler to each radiator. We plan routes to minimize visible pipework, using floor voids, wall chases, and service ducts where possible. For properties without existing heating, we install complete new pipe runs. For upgrades replacing old systems, we often use existing routes but install new pipes for reliability.
Radiator Installation
Each radiator is positioned according to your preferences and optimal heating efficiency. We fit wall brackets securely, hang radiators level, connect pipe work, fit thermostatic valves, and test for leaks. We protect your floors and furniture throughout installation.
Controls & Thermostat
Modern heating controls improve comfort and reduce energy bills. We install programmable thermostats allowing different temperatures at different times. Room thermostats in main living areas. Thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs) on individual radiators for room-by-room control. Smart controls allowing remote operation via smartphone if required.
System Filling & Commissioning
Once everything's connected, we fill the system with water and inhibitor (prevents corrosion). We bleed all radiators, removing trapped air. We pressure test the entire system, checking every joint for leaks. We balance the system, adjusting flow to each radiator so all rooms heat evenly. We demonstrate controls and answer your questions.
New Installation vs System Upgrade
Completely New System
For properties with no existing central heating, or where the old system is being completely removed, we install everything from scratch. This includes all pipework, radiators, controls, and connections to your boiler. Typical installation time is 3-5 days for an average three-bedroom house.
System Upgrade/Replacement
If you have heating but want new radiators or extended coverage, we can work with some existing infrastructure. We assess what can be reused (if anything) and what should be replaced. Upgrading typically takes 2-4 days depending on scope.
Types Of Radiators We Install
- Single panel radiators - Most economical, compact, suitable for smaller rooms
- Double panel radiators - Higher heat output, efficient, good for larger rooms
- Triple panel radiators - Maximum output from compact size, ideal for poorly insulated rooms
- Column radiators - Traditional styling, excellent heat output, various heights
- Vertical radiators - Space-saving, modern look, good for narrow walls
- Towel radiators - Bathroom heating with towel warming functionality
- Designer radiators - Stylish options in various shapes, materials, and finishes
Heating Controls Options
Basic Controls
Simple timer and room thermostat. Set desired temperature and times for heating on/off. Economical but limited flexibility. Suitable for small properties or those on tight budgets.
Programmable Thermostats
Multiple daily programmes allowing different temperatures at different times. Separate weekday and weekend schedules. More comfort and energy savings than basic controls.
Zone Controls
Divide your home into zones (e.g., upstairs/downstairs) with independent temperature control. Uses zone valves and multiple thermostats. Excellent for larger properties or where different areas have different heating needs.
Smart Controls
App-based control from smartphone or tablet. Set schedules, adjust temperatures remotely, monitor energy use. Some systems learn your habits and optimize automatically. Brands include Hive, Nest, Tado, Honeywell.
Installation Timeline
Remove old radiators if applicable. Run new pipework to radiator locations. Install manifolds and main pipe runs. Prepare wall positions for radiators.
Hang all radiators, connect pipework, fit valves and controls. Install room thermostats and programmer. Connect to boiler.
Fill system, pressure test, bleed radiators, balance system. Commission controls and demonstrate operation.
Any making good, final checks, handover documentation, clean up thoroughly.
Energy Efficiency Considerations
Modern heating systems are far more efficient than older installations:
- Thermostatic radiator valves prevent overheating individual rooms
- Programmable controls only heat when needed
- Properly sized radiators heat rooms efficiently without overworking the boiler
- System inhibitor prevents corrosion, maintaining efficiency long-term
- Good controls can reduce heating bills by 20-30% versus basic timer systems
Typical Installation Costs
Small property (1-2 bed): £2,500-3,500 (4-6 radiators)
Medium property (3 bed): £3,500-5,000 (7-10 radiators)
Large property (4-5 bed): £5,000-7,500 (11-15 radiators)
Designer radiators: Add £200-500 per radiator
Smart controls: Add £200-400
Quotes include radiators, all pipework, valves, controls, fitting, testing, and commissioning. We provide detailed written quotes itemizing everything so you know exactly what you're paying for.
Why Choose Us For Heating Installation
- 30 years installing central heating systems in Trowbridge
- Detailed heat loss calculations ensure correctly sized radiators
- Clean, careful working - we protect your property
- Complete on schedule - we plan properly and deliver on time
- All work guaranteed
- Qualified Gas Safe engineers
- Free surveys and detailed quotes
- Honest advice - we'll tell you what you actually need, not upsells

