What does central heating repair cost in 2026?
A heating engineer in 2026 costs on average € 60 to € 90 per hour, plus € 25 to € 45 call-out costs. An annual service costs € 80 to € 160, fixing a breakdown € 100 to € 275 including diagnosis. Replacing a complete boiler comes to € 1,800 to € 3,500 including the unit. Outside office hours an emergency surcharge on the hourly rate applies.
Prices updated: August 2026
What determines the price?
- Type of job: maintenance, a breakdown or a full boiler replacement differ greatly in price
- Boiler type and brand: a high-efficiency combi, heat-only boiler or hybrid setup requires different work and parts
- Unit price on replacement (€ 1,200-2,200) comes on top of the installation labour
- Accessibility and placement of the boiler (attic, crawl space or a tight cupboard take more time)
- Region and timing: Randstad rates run 10-20% higher, and outside office hours an emergency surcharge applies
What does it cost?
| Service | Price guide |
|---|---|
| Central heating repair | € 100 – € 275 per breakdown |
| Boiler service and inspection | € 80 – € 160 per service |
| Boiler replacement | € 1800 – € 3500 incl. unit (guide price) |
| Radiators and heating | € 90 – € 450 per job |
| Underfloor heating | € 1500 – € 6000 per project (guide price) |
| Thermostat installation | € 90 – € 250 per job (excl. unit) |
| Business and HOA | € 55 – € 90 per hour (contract) |
Indicative prices based on market data. Professionals set their own rates; you always receive a quote first.
Frequently asked questions
What does fixing a boiler breakdown cost?
A breakdown visit costs € 100 to € 275 including diagnosis and minor materials. Larger parts such as a pump, three-way valve, expansion vessel or circuit board come on top. Outside office hours an emergency surcharge on the hourly rate applies. Ask upfront for the hourly rate, call-out costs and surcharge.
How often should a boiler be serviced?
The advice is once a year, or at least every two years. With many brands periodic maintenance is also required to keep the manufacturer's warranty valid. Ideally have the service done before winter, in October or November.
How long does a boiler last?
A modern high-efficiency boiler lasts on average 15 to 18 years with good maintenance. From about 15 years, breakdowns and parts costs rise and replacement often becomes cheaper than continued repair. An engineer honestly weighs the remaining life in the advice.
Replace the boiler or switch to a (hybrid) heat pump?
That depends on your home, insulation and budget. A hybrid heat pump combines your boiler with an electric heat pump and saves gas; a full heat pump requires good insulation and low-temperature emitters (underfloor heating or large radiators). Ask an engineer for an honest comparison for your situation, including any subsidy.
Can an engineer come out in the evening for a breakdown?
For a genuine breakdown (no heat in winter, no hot water) affiliated engineers often respond the same day; some companies also work evenings and weekends, with an emergency surcharge on the hourly rate. If the boiler fails in summer, the visit can usually wait safely until the next working day, saving you the surcharge.
What does a new boiler cost?
A new boiler, including installation, usually costs € 1,800 to € 3,500. The unit itself is € 1,200 to € 2,200 depending on output and brand; installation, balancing and disposal of the old boiler come on top. Adjusting the flue or gas line can raise the price.
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