By Croston Plumbing & Heating | Gas Safe Registered (Reg No. 553037) | Worcester Bosch Accredited Installers | Est. 2006
If you live in an older home in Lancashire and struggle to keep it warm, you’re not alone. From cold rooms and rising energy bills to outdated boilers and inefficient radiators, many homeowners are paying more than they should for poor heating performance.
The good news is that with the right upgrades, even the oldest properties can become warm, efficient, and cost-effective to run.
In this guide, our Gas Safe registered engineers at Croston Plumbing & Heating explain the best heating solutions for older homes, what they cost, and how to prioritise improvements for the biggest impact.
Why Heating Older Homes in Lancashire Is Different
Properties built before 1980, especially Victorian and pre-war homes across Chorley, Preston and Leyland, were not designed with modern efficiency standards.
Common issues include:
- Solid walls losing heat faster than cavity walls
- Higher ceilings creating more space to heat
- Draughty windows and doors
- Older or undersized radiators
- Boilers running at just 60 – 70% efficiency
The key is improving heat retention and distribution
Table of Contents
1. Modern Boiler Replacement: The Most Impactful Upgrade
If your boiler is over 10 -15 years old, replacing it is usually the biggest improvement you can make.
Modern A-rated condensing boilers operate at over 90% efficiency compared to older systems.
What type of boiler is right?
- Combi boiler → Best for most 2-3 bed homes
- System boiler → Ideal for larger homes with multiple bathrooms
- Regular boiler → Suitable if you already have a traditional setup
Typical Costs in Lancashire
- Combi boiler: £1,800 – £3,200
- System boiler: £2,200 – £3,800
Worcester Bosch boilers can come with up to 12-year warranties when installed by accredited installers.
Get a free boiler installation quote today: https://crostonplumbing.co.uk/get-a-quote/
2. High-Output Radiators: Essential for Older Properties
Many older homes struggle because radiators are simply not powerful enough.
Best radiator options:
- Column radiators (perfect for period homes)
- Double or triple panel radiators
- Vertical radiators for high ceilings and limited space
These provide higher BTU output and better heat distribution.
👉 Browse modern radiator options: https://designerradiatorshowroom.co.uk/
At Croston Plumbing & Heating, we also help calculate the correct radiator size for each room.
3. Powerflushing: Restore Your Heating System
Over time, sludge builds up inside your system, reducing performance.
Signs you need a powerflush:
- Cold spots on radiators
- Noisy boiler
- Slow heating
- Uneven temperatures
Benefits:
- Improved heat circulation
- Better efficiency
- Extended system lifespan
👉 A powerflush is often recommended before installing a new boiler.
4. Underfloor Heating: Ideal for Renovations
Underfloor heating is becoming more popular in older homes, especially during renovations.
Best for:
- Extensions
- Kitchens
- Bathrooms
Benefits:
- Even heat distribution
- Lower running costs
- More usable wall space
💡 Works best when combined with good insulation.
5. Insulation: The Foundation of Efficiency
Before upgrading heating, insulation should always be considered.
Key areas:
- Loft insulation
- Floor insulation
- Draught proofing
Better insulation reduces heat loss and lowers energy bills.
Typical Heating Upgrade Costs in Lancashire
- New boiler: £1,800 – £3,200
- Powerflush: £400 – £900
- Radiator upgrades: £150 – £400 per room
- Underfloor heating: £800 – £1,500 per room
💡 Finance options available to spread the cost.
What’s the Best Solution for Your Home?
Most Lancashire homes benefit from:
- New boiler + upgraded radiators
- Underfloor heating during renovations
- Improved insulation for long-term savings
👉 Every home is different, so expert advice is key.
Looking for Heating Engineers Near You?
If you’re searching for:
- boiler installation near Chorley
- heating engineer near Preston
- powerflush near me
- underfloor heating installers Lancashire
Croston Plumbing & Heating provides trusted local services across the North West.
👉 Book your free survey today: https://crostonplumbing.co.uk/
About Croston Plumbing & Heating
Croston Plumbing & Heating is a trusted, family-run business based in Eccleston, Chorley, serving Lancashire since 2006.
We are:
- Gas Safe Registered (Registration No. 553037)
- Worcester Bosch Accredited Installers
- Rated highly by local customers
- Offering finance options on installations
We cover: Chorley, Preston, Leyland, Southport, and surrounding areas.
👉 Visit us: https://crostonplumbing.co.uk/
FAQs
What is the best heating system for an old house in the UK?
A modern boiler combined with high-output radiators and good insulation is the most effective solution for most older homes.
How much does a new boiler cost in Lancashire?
Typically between £1,800 and £3,200 depending on the property and system requirements.
Is underfloor heating suitable for old houses?
Yes, especially during renovations. Low-profile systems can be installed with minimal disruption.
Do older homes need bigger radiators?
Yes. Older homes lose more heat, so higher BTU radiators are usually required.
What are the signs I need a powerflush?
Cold spots, noisy boiler, slow heating, and dirty water when bleeding radiators.
Is it worth replacing an old boiler?
Yes. Modern boilers are far more efficient and can reduce energy bills significantly.
What is the cheapest way to heat an old house in the UK?
Improving insulation first, then upgrading your boiler and radiators, is the most cost-effective approach.
Can you install central heating in an old house?
Yes, central heating can be installed or upgraded in older homes with the right system design.
Final Thoughts
Heating an older home doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive. With the right setup, you can enjoy a warm, efficient home all year round.
The key is choosing a system that works with your property, not against it.
📞 Ready to Upgrade Your Heating?
Whether you need a new boiler, upgraded radiators, underfloor heating, or a powerflush, Croston Plumbing & Heating is here to help.
👉 Call: 01257 452 879
👉 Whatsapp: 07498 318394
👉 Visit our showroom: Unit G, Grove Mill, Grove Park Industrial Estate, Eccleston, Chorley PR7 5TZ
