Narre Warren, Victoria12 boiler and central heating specialists near you

The profession of heating engineer can be learned in various ways depending on the individual. Different training and studies are available, the majority of which are short-term, usually no more than 2 years, but sufficiently rich for acquiring the professional skills to practice the profession. Training in thermal installation mainly allows for understanding the reality of the field with regards to heating systems, among others, and learning the profession in real intervention conditions. Usually, alternating work-study programs are the most common format for becoming a specialist in boilers and central heating. And it is not always necessary to have a Bac to pursue studies in this field since access can be granted right after middle school. The following are the main diplomas leading to the profession of heating engineer: 1. After middle school: vocational training certificate (CAP) in thermal installation assembly, CAP in refrigeration and air conditioning installation, CAP in sanitary installation assembly, vocational training certificate (BEP) in energy systems and climate installation, professional qualification (BP) in climate and sanitary engineering installation assembly; 2. High school diploma: Professional BAC in energy systems and climate maintenance technician, professional BAC in refrigeration and air conditioning technician; 3. University level: technical university degree (DUT) in thermal engineering, BTS (vocational training certificate) in fluids, energy, and environment with various specializations. Furthermore, there are continuing education courses that allow learning the profession of thermal installer in a very short time: no more than one year. This allows those who already have skills in the field to formalize them by obtaining a professional title. This also facilitates professional integration for learners.

In recent years, heating needs have been increasing, especially due to climate change resulting in harsher winters, among other effects. This is where the heating technician comes into play. It is their responsibility to install, maintain, replace and repair any heating equipment, as well as air conditioning and ventilation systems. On a construction or renovation site, whether it is for houses, commercial premises or offices, the heating technician ensures that they find the best heating solution and preferably use a high energy-efficient model; of course, within the budget established by their individual or professional clients. Before any heating installation, they must carefully study the floor plans to take note of the specificities of the site and understand how the pipes and ducts are laid out to ensure the best efficiency - the highest energy efficiency. Furthermore, the connection of the entire system must be carried out precisely in accordance with the use of each room. The heating installer is also called upon for maintenance and repair of heating systems: dismantling, cleaning, repair, etc. It is common for them to propose an annual maintenance contract - which is mandatory for certain types of equipment. Boiler maintenance is not to be taken lightly as malfunctioning heating systems can have serious repercussions on energy consumption (electricity consumption).

The main reason for calling a heating engineer is to improve one's thermal comfort. Installing a boiler can be a real ordeal, except for supplementary models – such as mobile appliances. When you do not have the necessary skills to do it yourself, it is better to turn to a professional. The heating specialist and central heating engineer have all the necessary skills to find the best heating solution, thus enabling energy bill savings. Otherwise, to avoid unnecessarily replacing an appliance, except if it has become less efficient or is no longer suitable – an old boiler, for example – it is best to call in a thermal installer when encountering a problem with our boiler, heating system, low-temperature radiator, underfloor heating, or any other system.

To find a heating installer, one can particularly turn to a directory such as StarOfService. It is possible to easily find and competent one in their area by following the instructions on the screen. One can come into contact with several of them and assess needs and expectations, then choose the one with whom they have the most affinity.

The specialist in boilers and central heating can apply an hourly rate or a fixed price for their services. As for the hourly rate, it depends on several factors, such as the geographical area, the hours of service, and the skills of the professional. On average, the hourly rate is between €35 and €60 - subject to increase for interventions in urban areas. For the most common jobs, a heating installer offers fixed rates: - Installation of an electric boiler: between €500 and €2,000; - Installation of a wood boiler: between €1,000 and €3,000; - Installation of an air-to-water heat pump: between €1,500 and €3,000; - Installation of radiators: between €100 and €400; - Installation of underfloor heating: between €1,500 and €3,000; - Maintenance of a heat pump: from €150 to €350; - Maintenance of a combustion boiler (oil, gas or wood): from €75 to €250. Travel expenses also apply in some cases and these depend on the distance between the place of intervention and the specialist. But on average, these expenses are around €30-€50.

As the installation of heating and hot water production systems inside a home, commercial space or office is a more or less complicated process, the use of a heating engineer is more than recommended. Moreover, the operation has a major impact on energy consumption and thermal comfort, among others. However, this does not mean that you will jump at the first professional who offers a good deal. Several parameters must be taken into account in selecting your thermal installer. First and foremost, there are the skills, qualifications and credibility of the professional. As heating devices are constantly evolving with new operating modes (photovoltaic, solar energy, geothermal, thermodynamics, etc.), professionals must constantly stay informed and trained in these developments. An air-water heat pump, a hybrid boiler, a low-temperature radiator or a condensing central heating system are not installed in the same way. Therefore, it is important to ensure that the craftsman possesses the necessary qualifications and insurance. Next, a good heating engineer is one who develops a project from A to Z, meaning that he is responsible for selecting the devices to be put in place, taking into account various parameters. His diagnosis and estimate must be as precise as possible with solutions in terms of tax credits, for example, or maintenance contracts - solutions tailored to a desire for high energy performance in order to lower the energy bill.

- How long have you worked as a heating engineer? - What are your qualifications in thermal installation? - Do you offer a warranty and a maintenance contract?