Fact: every home needs a boiler, but not all boilers are equal. With so many types to choose from, we’ve put together this quick guide on how to choose the best boiler for your home.
By switching to a modern and efficient boiler, you could save at least 30% on your heating bills and drastically lower your carbon footprint. Plus, with finance options available, it’s not as costly as you think!
by law, all new boilers fitted in the UK must now be condensing boilers. Condensing boilers are highly efficient, with 90% or higher efficiency ratings. They’re available for both gas and oil-heated homes. There are three types:
- Combination (Combi)
- System
- Regular
Combination (Combi) Boilers:
A combi boiler is a simple unit that delivers both heating and hot water, making them great for small-medium sized homes. They heat water directly from the mains whenever you turn on your hot tap, meaning there’s no need for a hot water storage cylinder or cold water tank, and you only heat as much water as you need (saving on costs).
System Boilers:
System boilers need a cylinder for storing hot water, however they don’t take any space in your loft. With this boiler type, some of the main heating and hot water components, such as the pump, are built into the boiler itself. This makes it quicker and easier to install. System boilers are ideal for homes with two or more bathrooms, so you can have multiple showers running at the same time.
Regular Boilers:
Regular (traditional) boilers need both a hot water cylinder and a cold water tank in the roof. These boilers are best used for homes where a lot of hot water is used at the same time. They’re particularly suited to low water pressure areas, and for installation onto systems which have lots of old radiators.
So, which is best?
The type and size of your new boiler will depend on many factors including: the size of your home, how many bathrooms there are, how well insulated it is, and the kind of fuel you use. For small homes with just one bathroom. a combi boiler is best suited to your heating and hot water needs. Slightly larger homes with two or more bathrooms may benefit more from a system boiler, providing there is space for a hot water cylinder. Very large homes with multiple bathrooms should opt for a regular boiler to ensure hot water is available at all times.
Ready to install a new and efficient boiler? We install a variety of Worcester boilers which have been awarded the Which? best buy for the last 9 years. Get in touch with us to find out more about our boiler installations.