Which type of boiler is right for you
The type of boiler you require depends on several different factors, from how many people will be using the hot water to how many radiators are on the central heating system. Here we out line some of the key differences between the 3 main types of boilers, combi boilers, system boilers and conventional boilers. If you have any further questions get in touch with us and our team will be happy to advise you.
Combi Boiler
Combination boilers have been increasing and increasing in popularity due to their space saving design. The boiler supplies heating and hot water in one and as such do not require a water tank or a hot water cylinder. They heat water on demand, straight from the incoming cold water mains supply. Combi boilers deliver instant, unlimited hot water and are a good choice if you enjoy a long shower with good pressure and flow rate.
Without the need for hot water cylinder or cold-water storage tank and that most can be installed easily within a stand kitchen cupboard and that you no longer need to heat water that you may not use combi boilers have taken the lion’s share of the UK boiler market in recent times.
One thing to consider before choosing a combi boiler is the lack of a backup hot water cylinder with immersion heater. If the boiler breaks down you won’t have any heating or hot water. Also, if you have a large home with several bathrooms, a combi boiler is unlikely to be able to meet your hot water requirements.
Advantages
- Compact size, easily concealed within a cupboard.
- No bulky water cylinders.
- Hot water available on demand.
- Only heat the water you use.
- No need to store water.
- Heat to radiators on demand.
- Most popular choice in the UK.
Disadvantages
- Water pressure can be lost whilst using more than one tap.
- No immersion heater in case of emergencies.
- No Power Shower
- Dependence on Mains Pressure
System Boilers
Like combination boilers, system boilers do not require a water tank. The central heating and hot water are provided via a sealed hot water storage cylinder, which is normally located in loft space or airing an airing cupboard. System boilers are considered the best solution for homes with more than one bathroom and a high-water demand.
Most heating and hot water system components are built into the boiler itself, making it quicker and easier to install.
Advantages
- ability to supply multiple bathrooms and faucets with hot water at the same time
- Hot water always available
- Energy-efficient and environmentally friendly
- No need for a cold water tank
- Flow rates tend to be high and at mains pressure
- Affordable running costs
- Save money on utilities, particularly if you’re replacing an old boiler
- Can be used with solar thermal systems
Disadvantages
- Dependence on Mains Pressure
- Hot water may need to be reheated
- Requires a little extra space for the hot water cylinder
- Cylinder size may dictate how much water you’re able to use
- May need to pre-program your boiler if you want hot water at a specific time
- No need for a cistern in the loft
- May need insulation in order to stop heat and energy loss
Conventional/ Regular Boilers
Conventional boilers are also known as regular or heat only boilers. They are designed to work with conventional heating and hot water systems that have a separate hot water storage cylinder, a cold-water storage tank and a feed and expansion tank normally housed in the loft.
Systems with conventional boilers have most central heating components outside of the boiler.
Advantages
- Easy installation in homes with traditional heating systems
- Perfect for older homes in areas with low water pressure
- Small leaks are generally not a large problem, and won’t cause a loss of pressure in your shower
- Compatible with solar thermal systems, making them a very energy-efficient option and enabling you to cut down even more on carbon emissions
Disadvantages
- Can be more expensive to run
- Require space for both a hot water storage cylinder and a tank
- Installation can end up being more expensive than other types of boilers
- A water tank boiler may need time for the water to heat up
- Only provide access to as much hot water as your tank is able to hold