One of the most profitable home improvements is installing a new boiler, according to new research. Fitting a £2,000 boiler adds £8,000 to the value of a property – making a huge £6,000 profit.

A new boiler was knocked off the top spot only by a wind turbine. Off-street parking, charging points and security were amongst the other profitable improvements but others, commonly associated with increasing the value of a home, such as new kitchens, bathroom, extensions and double glazing proved costly with a negative return on investment.

GoCompare and property expert Henry Pryor who conducted the research, have advised home owners to invest in security and energy saving upgrades and buy a bucket, sponge and cleaning materials rather than making significant cosmetic changes if they want to make a profit on their improvements.

Not selling just yet? Home owners should also consider the savings made monthly from installing a new, efficient boiler. Switching from a G-rated boiler with 70% efficiency to an A-rated boiler with 90% efficiency could save you £305 per year*

It’s over 12 years old. Whilst is may not have any faults, newer boilers are more efficient, technologically advanced and safer.

Radiators are slow to heat up. An efficient boiler should heat up instantly, the longer yours takes the more its costing you to keep warm.

A yellow flame. The flame should always be blue, yellow indicates a carbon monoxide problem. If you suspect that fumes containing carbon monoxide are escaping from your boiler, call the free Gas Emergency Services emergency line immediately on 0800 111 999.

Its smells strange. A safe boiler should never smell. Whilst carbon monoxide is odourless, any faint smells could be due to a carbon monoxide leak causing the boiler to burn incorrectly.

Your bills are increasing. This could be due to an inefficient boiler. Check your ErP energy rating.

Its’ leaking or making odd noises. Both signs your boiler needs maintenance.

It keeps breaking down. Signs of general deterioration, this also costs more money in call-outs and repairs.

Regardless of the profit you make – its most important to ensure your boiler is safe and fit for purpose.

* Source: http://www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/home-energy-efficiency/boiler-replacement. Figures based on installing a new A-rated condensing boiler with a programmer, room thermostat and thermostatic radiator controls (TRVs) in a gas-heated home from an older boiler with a programmer and room thermostat. Based on fuel prices as of April 2018 for a detached house.