Boiler service costs an average of $425
The average boiler repair cost is $425, with a range between $95 and $1,500.
Cost factors include the boiler type, the problem, labor, and the required parts.
Timely repairs by a boiler service pro prevent costly breakdowns and extend the life of your unit.
This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.
Boiler service costs average around $425, with most homeowners spending between $190 and $659. The cost of your boiler repairs and service will depend on factors like the fuel source, the parts required, and the problem with your unit. In this guide, we'll help you understand what affects boiler service costs so you can keep your boiler running safely and efficiently.
Budget for your boiler service costs by understanding the factors that impact the total cost of repairs and maintenance.
Your boiler service costs will depend on the type of boiler you have, whether it's gas, oil, or electric. The size of your boiler is also part of the equation, with larger homes requiring boilers with more British thermal units (BTUs) than those suited for smaller homes.
Labor typically costs $150 to $300 as a flat fee or $75 to $125 per hour. Emergency repairs or after-hours service calls on weekends, holidays, and evenings will increase your labor costs. Many pros offer ongoing service contracts for regular maintenance, which can be more affordable in the long run than one-time service calls, depending on your needs. Talk to your local boiler repair pro for a detailed quote based on your boiler.
The cost of your boiler repair depends on the specific problem, the materials needed, and the repair time. Here are some common issues that you may encounter and that will require a professional repair service.
Repair Problem | Average Materials Cost | Average Labor Cost |
---|---|---|
Faulty ignitor switch | $25–$150 | $100–$200 |
Faulty expansion tank | $40–$130 | $100–$250 |
Faulty circulator, ductwork, radiators | $150–$350 | $250–$500 |
Faulty pipes or valves | $150–$400 | $200–$600 |
Boiler repair costs vary depending on the fuel source that powers your unit. Here are the repair costs associated with each type of boiler.
Fuel Source | Average Repair Cost Range |
---|---|
Gas | $100–$400 |
Electric | $200–$450 |
Oil | $200–$500 |
Gas boiler repairs typically cost between $100 and $400. Since gas boilers are the most common type, parts are readily available and affordable. If your gas boiler is over 10 years old and requires frequent repairs, it might be more cost-effective to replace it. Installing a new gas boiler costs around $4,000 to $10,000.
Common gas boiler problems include:
Damaged transformers or igniters
Damaged water circulation pump
Expansion tank issues
Issues with temperature, pressure, or gas regulator valves
Broken fuel lines
Malfunctioning heat exchanger
Loose wiring connections
Air in the system pipes
Electric boilers typically cost $200 to $450 to repair and have grown in popularity now that technology has made them more viable. Because they’re becoming more popular, parts and technicians are more available, meaning electric boilers are now less expensive to repair than in years past. If you need to replace your electric boiler, a new one costs between $1,800 and $8,000.
Common electric boiler problems include:
No hot water
Low pressure
Inefficient circulating pump
Electrical wiring issues
Heat exchanger issues
Malfunctioning thermostat
Trapped air or clogs in radiators
Water leaks
Oil boiler repairs cost around $200 to $500. Although oil boilers are no longer common, they can still be found in older homes in New England and scattered throughout some northern states. Oil boilers are still a viable and practical solution for rural and remote areas, so technicians can still easily track down parts.
Oil boilers are more energy-efficient than most boiler types, but oil boiler repair costs tend to be higher on average. If your technician recommends replacement, budget around $4,800 to $9,000 in oil boiler installation costs.
Common oil boiler problems include:
Malfunctioning oil burners and transformers
Heat exchanger cracks
Clogged heating oil pump
Clogged burner nozzles
Corroded or clogged fuel pipes
Loose wiring connections
Damaged valves
Air in the fuel line
Issues with the chimney flue
Boiler replacement costs range from $10 to $800 for each part alone. Labor adds another $150 to $300. A technician will need to replace a few parts for most boiler repairs. A new part will typically save on costs in each case below and is safer than working with the existing, damaged, or worn-down part.
When multiple components break down, repairing or replacing individual parts becomes less affordable. If that's the case, it might be time to consider a new unit.
Replacement Part | Average Cost (Including Labor) |
---|---|
Zone valve | $200–$500 |
Expansion tank (gas) | $200–$550 |
Expansion tank (oil) | $250–$530 |
Expansion tank (electric) | $200–$550 |
Coil | $500–$1,000 |
Circulating pump | $300–$1,000 |
Gas valve | $300–$1,100 |
Radiator Valve | $180–$330 |
Fan | $200–$500 |
Transformer | $180–$500 |
Flue | $300–$700 |
A zone valve is an integral part of the boiler system, controlling how much water or steam flows into each room of the house. A zone valve replacement, including labor, costs about $200 to $500.
The expansion tank provides cushioning for expanding water when heated. Prices vary by the boiler type, but a boiler expansion tank replacement costs around $200 to $550, installed. The size of the boiler can also ultimately determine the cost.
Replacing a boiler coil, which transfers heat from the burner to the water, costs between $500 and $1,000, including labor. If hard water minerals have clogged the coil, the technician might also need to replace piping connections, valves, and gaskets, which can add to the cost.
A circulating pump (also called a circulator pump) can be an expensive repair, costing an average of $300 to $1,000, including labor. This part pumps heated water through the house. Brand, size, and speed all affect the overall cost. Replacing a faulty circulating pump is crucial because if it isn’t working, your boiler will be creating hot water or steam for no reason.
The gas valve controls the flow of gas to the burner. A gas valve replacement costs upwards of $1,100, including labor, and depending on the project. The work involves shutting off natural gas to remove and reconnect lines, so a pro must handle this process for safety reasons.
A radiator valve is an essential part that controls how much hot water enters each radiator. You can buy one for $10 to $60 at a hardware store. However, a technician's diagnosis and installation of the replacement valve will cost approximately $180 to $330.
The fan pushes combustion fumes outside through the flue. A technician will generally charge $200 to $500 to install a new boiler fan. Brand and size are the two largest factors affecting the cost.
The transformer supplies power to the boiler. If you need to replace the transformer for your boiler, expect to pay around $180 to $500. Additional work, like rewiring or installing a new thermostat, can add to the cost.
The flue carries combustion fumes outside of the home. Replacing the flue can vary in price, generally from around $300 to $700. The boiler type will affect the overall replacement cost:
Oil boilers usually must connect to chimneys since they need stainless steel vents.
Gas boilers give you more options for venting, including metal ducts and even PVC pipes.
Electric boilers don't produce fumes, so you won't need to install vents. This is one key way that electric boilers make boiler repair costs more affordable.
Your boiler service pro can tackle some other common tasks in addition to fixing your unit’s main components and performing routine maintenance.
Gas and oil boiler cleaning costs around $150 to $350 as part of an overall service. Regular cleaning is crucial; neglecting it can turn your boiler into an unreliable and potentially dangerous appliance.
Flushing removes sediment and minerals that build up in the boiler and the lines, which can harm the tank and cause overheating and corrosion. Boiler flushing costs anywhere from $200 to $600, depending on the boiler size and the length of pipes running through your home. Without regular cleaning, your boiler can become unreliable and even dangerous, leading to costly repairs or replacements. Annual service contracts often include flushing as an option.
It's best to hire a professional for boiler repairs, routine maintenance, and inspections. Without specialized knowledge, you might miss signs of small problems that can escalate into major, costly issues. Even minor mistakes can lead to dangerous situations, regardless of your boiler's fuel source.
Your best bet is to hire a boiler repair pro near you for service and repair. Professional maintenance work is ideal for your safety and can increase the longevity of your boiler.
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Your boiler is failing if it produces insufficient heat or hot water and emits unusual sounds during operation. A gas boiler with a flame that is not a distinct blue indicates a malfunction, while erratic pressure readings suggest internal issues. When these signs occur, contact a qualified professional right away to inspect and repair your boiler.
Common problems that affect a boiler include malfunctioning oil burners and transformers, cracks in the heat exchanger that hinder proper heat transfer, and clogs in the oil pump, burner nozzles, or fuel pipes. In addition, loose wiring connections and damaged valves compromise system reliability. Recognize these issues early through regular maintenance to avoid costly repairs and ensure a safe, efficient heating system.
Deciding whether to repair or replace your boiler hinges on evaluating its age and the severity of the malfunctions. If your boiler is 15 years old or older and exhibits significant performance issues, a replacement will ensure enhanced safety and efficiency. Also, if warranty coverage has expired and repair expenses are mounting, investing in a new unit is the best long‐term solution.
Neglecting boiler maintenance can lead to hazardous conditions, such as increased carbon monoxide exposure, unexpected system shutdowns, and extensive repairs that may cost thousands of dollars. Skipping regular checkups allows minor issues to escalate, reducing the system's lifespan and efficiency. Regular maintenance is essential for safe operation and long-term cost savings.