From Horsham to Shoreham: Prime Boiler Care's Take on the UK Gas Boiler Market U-Turn

The Local Installer’s View: Is the Gas Combi Boiler Still the Right Choice for Your West Sussex Home?

Hi, I’m Andrew Tyler from Prime Boiler Care here in Horsham. 

For nearly three decades, I’ve been keeping homes across Horsham, Southwater, Storrington, and Shoreham-by-Sea warm, safe, and efficient. 

If you’re anything like my customers, you’ve been hearing a lot of confusing news about gas boilers and whether you’ll be forced to rip yours out. 

Let’s cut through the noise. Here is the clear, professional breakdown of the latest market news and what it means for your West Sussex central heating system. 

The Big UK Policy U-Turn: Relief for Existing Homes The most significant news for homeowners from Billingshurst to Lancing is the recent policy shift: 

 * No Forced Ban on Gas Boilers: The plan to ban the sale of new gas boilers for existing homes from 2035 has been scrapped. 

This is a huge relief. If your current combi boiler gives up the ghost after 2035, you still have the choice to install a new, high-efficiency gas model. 

No one is coming to force you to switch to a different technology. 

 * The Real Ban (New Builds Only): Crucially, the Future Homes Standard (2025) is moving ahead. 

All new build properties will effectively be required to install low-carbon heating systems, primarily heat pumps. 

This confirms the industry’s direction of travel for new housing developments. 

The takeaway for you: If you’re happy with gas, investing in a new A-rated gas combi boiler is still a safe, long-term decision for your current home. 

Leading Brands Are Playing the Long Game The big names like Worcester Bosch, Ideal, Baxi, and Viessmann aren’t panicking. 

They’re adapting brilliantly, and their latest product ranges reflect a smart, dual-market strategy. 

1. Optimising the Modern Gas Boiler The focus right now is on making the best gas combi boiler that technology allows. 

What should you look for in a new boiler from these manufacturers? 

 * Deep Modulation: The new generation of Worcester Bosch Greenstar and Ideal Logic Max boilers can 'modulate' (or turn down) their heat output to very low levels. 

This means the boiler operates more efficiently and quietly, reducing your gas central heating bills—a must-have for any new boiler installation in Horsham or Steyning. 

 * Warranties & Reliability: Extended warranties of 10 to 12 years are now standard on premium models. 

Brands are backing their products, giving you confidence in the reliability of your new boiler replacement. 

 * Smart Controls: Seamless integration with smart thermostats (like Hive or Nest) is now key. 

This allows for precise, remote control of your heating, maximising comfort and efficiency. 

2. The Low-Carbon Pivot: Hydrogen and Heat Pumps The manufacturers are also future-proofing:  

* The Hydrogen Option: All major brands are ready with 100% hydrogen-ready boilers. 

These look and act exactly like your current boiler but can be easily converted to run on hydrogen gas if the network switches over. 

This is a potential bridge technology that could allow us to keep using our existing gas infrastructure in a low-carbon way. 

 * Air Source Heat Pumps: Every manufacturer is now also heavily invested in Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHPs). 

This is a core part of their business now, capitalising on the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) grants and the mandate for new homes. 

If you’re looking for a low-carbon heating solution in Pulborough or Henfield, the grants are making heat pumps increasingly attractive. 

My Local Advice for West Sussex Homeowners As your local Gas Safe registered engineer (596272), based right here in Horsham, here is my honest advice: 

 * Don't Rush Your Choice: If your boiler is over 10 years old and showing signs of wear, replacing it with a new A-rated combi boiler is a safe, effective, and cost-efficient solution right now. 

It provides decades of reliable heat. 

 * Service Annually: Regardless of the policy, ensure you get an annual boiler service to maintain peak efficiency and safety. 

This is non-negotiable for safety and warranty protection. 

 * Explore All Options: If you are embarking on a major renovation or extension, it’s the ideal time to explore heat pumps. 

I can give you clear, impartial advice on whether a heat pump or a high-efficiency gas boiler installation is the best fit for your specific property in Southwick or Sompting. 

Need a boiler service, repair, or a straight-talking quote for a new boiler in the Horsham District? 

Don't hesitate to call us for reliable, expert advice. 

Andrew Tyler Prime Boiler Care 01403 814602 

We proudly cover Horsham, Southwater, Storrington, Billingshurst, Steyning, Henfield, Pulborough, Shoreham-by-Sea, Lancing, Southwick, and Sompting. 

Gas Safe Reg No: 596272