LPG Boilers 101: Your Questions, Answered

Summary

Whether you're heating a rural home near Norwich or running an off-grid business, this guide answers the most common questions about LPG heating systems. From how they work and what they cost, to servicing, safety and why they’re a cleaner alternative to oil.

If you live in a rural spot like Norwich or run a business off the mains gas grid, chances are you’ve come across LPG boilers as a heating option. But what exactly are they? How do they work? And are they the right choice for you?

We’ve rounded up the most common questions people ask online to give you a clear guide to LPG boilers - whether it’s for your home or your business.

Let’s talk LPG boilers:

What is an LPG Boiler and How Does It Work?

LPG stands for Liquefied Petroleum Gas. It’s stored in a tank outside your property and powers a boiler just like mains gas would - heating your home and hot water with ease.

So, if you’re not connected to the gas network, especially in more rural areas around Norwich, a smart heating solution like a LPG boiler is a reliable alternative. The best part? Modern LPG boilers are incredibly efficient and can easily be integrated with most heating systems.

Is an LPG Heating System Right for My Home or Business?

If you need to heat an off-grid property, an LPG boiler could be the perfect fit. Whether it’s a cosy cottage or keeping your commercial space warm, they’re a great option for:

• Homeowners in rural areas

• Businesses that aren’t on the mains gas network

• Properties that need a reliable, consistent heat source

LPG boilers are flexible too - they work well with radiators, underfloor heating and even smart thermostats.

How Much Does an LPG Boiler Cost?

Here’s a rough breakdown to help you plan ahead:

Installation Costs:

• Boiler unit: £600 – £2,000 (depending on the model)

• Professional installation: £650 – £1,450

• LPG tank: You can either rent or buy, and the cost varies by supplier

• Please note: Additional parts and accessories may be required to ensure the full system meets Gas Safe regulations. These will be charged separately and are not included in the prices above.

Running Costs:

• LPG tends to cost a bit more per unit than mains gas (around 7.7p per kWh)

• For a well-insulated home, you might spend roughly £720 per year on heating

Maintenance:

• Annual servicing is usually between £100 and £150 - and worth every penny to keep things running smoothly!

How Often Does an LPG Heating System Need Servicing?

Once a year is ideal. A regular service keeps your boiler working safely and efficiently, and it’s often required to keep your warranty valid.

Whether it’s your home or a busy commercial site, a service gives you peace of mind -especially during those colder months. But here’s what to do in the event of a boiler breakdown!

What Does LPG Servicing Involve?

During a typical service, our engineers will:

• Check for gas leaks and make sure all fittings are secure

• Inspect the burner, heat exchanger, and flue

• Make sure the flame is burning properly (a nice steady blue is what you want)

• Ensure your ventilation and flue systems are clear

• Top up pressure and check the system overall

It’s all about keeping your system safe, efficient, and ready for action when you need it most.

Are LPG Boilers Environmentally Friendly?

Good news - they’re cleaner than oil boilers. LPG heating systems produces fewer carbon emissions and modern systems are highly efficient (many reaching 90%+). That means less fuel wasted, which is better for your wallet and the planet.

Even better, renewable liquid gases (RLGs) are being developed as greener alternatives that could work with your existing LPG system in the future.

Do I Need a Tank? Where Does It Go?

Yes, you’ll need an LPG tank installed on your property. These can be above ground or underground, depending on what suits your space.

Some quick tips:

• Tanks need to be at least 3 metres from buildings or boundaries

• They should be easy for the delivery truck to access

• Installation must meet safety standards—don’t worry, we’ll take care of that part!

What LPG Services Do You Offer?

We’re here to make your heating setup stress-free, with a full range of LPG boiler services:

Installation – Professional, tailored installation to suit your home or business
Servicing & Maintenance – Regular check-ups to keep things running like clockwork (ask us about service plans!)
Repairs – Fast, reliable fixes to get you back up and running
Emergency Support – Rapid response when you need it most

LPG boilers can be a brilliant choice for homes and businesses across Norwich and beyond - especially if you're off-grid. With the right setup and regular care, they offer reliable, efficient heating all year round.

If you’ve got more questions, read our blog on all the ins and outs of LPG boilers.

Looking for LPG installations and servicing in Norwich? From installation to emergency repairs, we’re here to help with honest advice and friendly service you can count on. Give Smart Heating EA Ltd a call on 07990 665002 - we’d love to help!