Switching From Solid Fuel To Gas: What's The Cost?

Solid fuel is a type of fuel that is processed in a chemical plant and is useful as fuel in all burner devices. It is also used to produce rocket fuel. Solid fuels include heavy oil, light oil, and petroleum gas. An example of solid fuel is coal, which is burned for energy in homes. However, solid fuels can be messy, smoky, and difficult to store. For these reasons, some homeowners may consider switching from solid fuel to gas. This process involves applying to a gas supplier and requesting a new incoming gas installation, as well as fitting a new boiler. The cost of switching from solid fuel to gas depends on various factors, including the price of the new boiler and the removal and disposal of the old stove.

Cost of a new gas boiler

The cost of a new gas boiler varies depending on the type of boiler, the brand, the size of your house, and the complexity of the installation.

The unit cost of a residential gas boiler is between $1,200 and $7,000, with installation costing an additional $1,000 to $3,500. The total cost of replacing a gas boiler, including the unit and installation, ranges from $3,200 to $9,000 on average.

High-efficiency gas boilers, which are also called condensing boilers, have a higher upfront cost than standard-efficiency boilers but can lower utility bills over time. High-efficiency gas boiler units cost between $1,900 and $7,000, and installation costs $4,000 to $10,000, bringing the total cost to between $5,900 and $17,000.

Combi boilers, which are tankless systems that can fit into smaller spaces, cost between $1,700 and $4,000 for the unit and between $6,000 and $10,000 for installation.

The cost of a gas boiler also depends on the size of the boiler, which is measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units). Most residential gas boilers have between 60,000 and 200,000 BTUs. To determine the appropriate boiler size for your home, you can multiply the square footage of your home by a number corresponding to your climate zone:

• 30-40 BTUs for warm climates
• 40-50 BTUs for moderate climates
• 50-60 BTUs for cold climates
• 60-70 BTUs for frigid climates

In addition to the cost of the unit and installation, there may be other costs associated with replacing a gas boiler, such as removing and disposing of the old boiler, modifying the gas lines or connections, or installing new pipes or ductwork. These additional costs can range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars.

When considering the cost of a new gas boiler, it is important to keep in mind the long-term operating costs as well. Gas boilers typically cost between $800 and $2,000 per year to run, depending on factors such as the size of the home, the local climate, and the efficiency of the boiler.

Cost of removing and disposing of old stove

The cost of removing and disposing of an old stove will depend on several factors, including your location, the size and weight of the stove, and the method of disposal you choose. Here is some information to help you estimate the cost:

Hiring a Professional Removal Service:

Hiring a professional stove removal service is a convenient option, especially if you don't have the time or ability to remove the stove yourself. Costs for this service can vary depending on your location and the company you choose. On average, stove removal services can range from $75 to $150 per appliance. Some companies may offer a flat rate for stove removal, while others may charge based on the space taken up by the stove in their truck.

Disposing of the Stove Yourself:

If you choose to dispose of the stove yourself, there are several options available, each with its own potential costs:

• Recycling: Stoves can be recycled, and this is an environmentally-friendly option. Some recycling centers may offer cash incentives for the metal in your stove, but rates may vary.
• Donation: Donating your old stove to a charity or non-profit organization is a cheap disposal option. However, some charities may not accept certain types of stoves, such as gas stoves, due to safety concerns.
• Curbside Pickup: If your local waste management company offers bulk waste removal or curbside pickup for large appliances, this could be a convenient and low-cost option. However, there may be extra fees associated with appliance disposal, and you may need to wait for a scheduled bulk trash collection day.
• Dumpster Rental: Renting a dumpster is another option for disposing of your old stove, especially if you have other junk or renovation waste to get rid of at the same time. Costs for dumpster rental can vary by location, and some cities may charge an extra fee for appliance disposal.

It's important to note that proper disposal of stoves, especially those powered by gas, may require disconnecting the gas supply and ensuring there are no gas leaks. This may involve hiring a qualified professional, which can add to the overall cost of removal and disposal.

Additionally, when comparing prices and deciding on a removal method, be sure to consider any hidden costs, such as transportation, labor, or disposal fees that may not be included in the initial quote.

Overall, the cost of removing and disposing of an old stove can vary significantly depending on your location, the stove's specifications, and the disposal method you choose. It is always a good idea to research multiple options and get quotes from different companies to find the most cost-effective and suitable solution for your specific situation.

Cost of fitting a new gas cooker

The cost of fitting a new gas cooker will depend on a number of factors, including the size of the cooker, the type of cooker, and the location of the property.

Size of the Cooker

The bigger the cooker, the more expensive it will be to install. For example, a 60cm gas cooker will cost around £300 to £780 to install, while a 110cm gas cooker will cost approximately £1370 to £2330.

Type of Cooker

The type of gas cooker you choose will also affect the installation cost. For instance, a conventional cooker typically costs between £280 and £850 to install, while a fan-assisted cooker will set you back £550 to £1850.

Location of Property

The cost of labour will vary depending on your location. In London, gas engineers tend to charge up to £60 per hour, while in other areas of the UK, the average rate is between £30 and £40 per hour.

Additional Costs

There may also be additional costs on top of the installation fee, such as the cost of running gas to the property if you are switching from another energy supply. This can be a costly and time-consuming process, taking up to 12 weeks and costing around £650 on average.

You may also need to hire an electrician if your gas cooker requires an electricity supply, and you will need to budget for a gas safety certificate, which is a legal requirement for landlords and costs around £30 to £150.

Total Cost

Taking all of these factors into account, the total cost of fitting a new gas cooker could range from £600 to over £3000.

Cost of gas tank installation

The cost of installing a gas tank varies depending on several factors, including the type of tank, its size, location, and whether it is installed above or below ground.

Above-Ground vs. Underground Tanks

Above-ground propane tanks are generally smaller and easier to install, resulting in lower installation costs. For instance, installing a 500-gallon above-ground tank typically costs between $1,400 and $1,700, while an underground installation of the same-sized tank ranges from $1,500 to $3,000.

Tank Size

The size of the propane tank is a significant factor in determining installation costs. Residential propane tanks usually range from 20 to 1,000 gallons in capacity. However, a 20-gallon tank is only sufficient for a single small appliance, such as a dryer or outdoor grill. The most common propane tank sizes are 120, 250, 500, and 1,000 gallons. A 120-gallon tank is adequate for one to two small appliances, such as a fireplace and an oven, while a 250-gallon tank can support water heaters and auxiliary heating.

Location and Distance from the House

The installation cost is also influenced by the distance of the tank from the house. According to NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) requirements, a tank of 125 gallons or less can be placed against the house, while an above-ground tank of 125 to 500 gallons must maintain a minimum distance of 10 feet from the house and any combustion sources. The farther the tank is from the house, the higher the installation cost due to the need for trenching and longer pipes. Trenching typically costs around $10 per foot, with an additional $2 per foot for the pipe.

Labor Costs

Labor costs for gas tank installation can vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and certification of the installer. Plumbers who work with gas may charge between $50 and $260 per hour. For example, a 120-gallon tank can be installed in an hour by two technicians, whereas a 500-gallon underground tank may require a full workday for a small crew.

Additional Costs and Considerations

There are several additional costs and considerations associated with gas tank installation:

• Permits: Most areas require permits for new propane tank installations, with costs ranging from $25 to $200.
• Concrete Pad: Above-ground tanks must be placed on a concrete or non-combustible pad, which typically costs around $100 to $200 for a small vertical tank and $300 to $500 for a larger tank.
• Annual Inspection: An annual propane tank inspection is essential for safety and compliance, with fees typically ranging from $50 to $75.
• Regulators: Propane gas regulators cost around $50 to $90, plus installation charges.
• Gas Line Installation: The cost of installing gas lines depends on the distance and complexity of the installation, ranging from $250 to $850.
• Fuel Tank Replacement: Fuel tank replacement for a vehicle can cost between $1,488 and $1,598, including labor and parts.

It is always recommended to obtain quotes from multiple local propane suppliers, installation contractors, or propane service companies to get accurate and up-to-date pricing based on your specific requirements and location.

Cost of gas tank and boiler

The cost of a gas tank and boiler varies depending on several factors, including the type of boiler, fuel type, house size, brand, and efficiency.

Gas Tank Costs

The cost of installing a new gas line ranges from $120 to $1,350, or $550 on average. The price per linear foot is between $15 and $25, and the type of material chosen can impact the overall cost. Polyvinyl chloride (PVC), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), and corrugated stainless steel tubing (CSST) are some of the materials used.

Gas Boiler Costs

The cost of a gas boiler unit alone ranges from $1,200 to $7,000, with high-efficiency boilers costing more. The boiler's brand, size, and efficiency rating also influence the price. For instance, Weil McLain gas boilers range from $1,700 to $6,000, while Lennox gas boilers cost between $1,700 and $6,500.

The labour cost of installing a gas boiler is typically between $1,000 and $3,500, depending on the complexity of the installation. The total cost of a gas boiler replacement, including the unit and installation, averages $3,200 to $9,000.

High-efficiency gas boilers have an Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating of 90% or higher, and they cost $1,900 to $7,000 for the unit alone. The installation cost for these boilers is $4,000 to $10,000, bringing the total replacement cost to $5,900 to $17,000.

Combi boilers, which are tankless systems that fit into smaller spaces, cost $6,000 to $10,000 to install when replacing an old boiler. New gas combi boiler units cost $1,700 to $4,000, excluding installation.

The cost of a gas boiler also depends on the size of the boiler, measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs). Most residential gas boilers have a capacity of 60,000 to 200,000 BTUs, and the cost is typically between $2,200 and $9,500, depending on the size and other factors.

Additional Costs

There are several additional costs to consider when installing or replacing a gas boiler. These include:

• Permit costs: $50 to $250
• Existing boiler removal: $200 to $500
• New gas line installation: $12 to $25 per linear foot
• New chimney liner: $1,500 to $4,000
• Thermostat replacement: $140 to $350 for an energy-saving model
• Maintenance: $200 to $500 per year for an annual service

Frequently asked questions