How do I decide which type
of condensing boiler best suits my needs?
There are 3 different types of
high-efficiency condensing boiler:
Each type delivers all the benefits of
high-efficiency technology, but which one you choose will depend on
several factors, including your property, your lifestyle and the
professional advice of your CORGI (gas) or OFTEC (oil) registered
installer.
What is a combi boiler?
To the left is an example of a central
heating and hot water system layout using a combi boiler.
The high efficiency condensing combi or
combination boiler is an ingenious space-saving idea, and an
increasingly popular choice in UK homes. In fact, combis now account for
well over half of all the new domestic boilers installed in Britain
every year.
The major difference between a combi and
any other type of boiler is that a combi eliminates the need to store
hot water - so no hot water cylinder in the airing cupboard. It is both
a high-efficiency water heater and central heating boiler, combined
(hence the name) within one compact unit which usually sits in the
kitchen or utility room, or sometimes in the airing cupboard. The space
savings result from the fact there is no hot water storage cylinder,
cold water storage cistern or other familiar components of a regular
(conventional) heating system.
The further benefits of this are a
significant saving on hot water costs, and the fact that hot water is
delivered through your taps or shower at mains pressure. So you can
enjoy powerful showering* without the need for a pump. Another combi
benefit is that it can generally save you money on installation time and
costs, since no tank in the roof space means less pipe work and a
shorter installation time.
*a thermostatically-controlled shower
safeguards against sudden changes in water temperature.
Here are a few examples
and guidelines to think about and help you identify the type of
condensing boiler most likely suited to your needs.
Consideration |
Most suitable
boiler |
You want to use your loft space
for a room conversion or other purpose |
COMBI |
You live in a flat or bungalow
(i.e. have very little or no roof space) |
COMBI |
Your home has more than 2
bathrooms |
REGULAR OR SYSTEM |
Your main water pressure is low |
REGULAR OR SYSTEM |
You want to replace an old boiler
to improve an existing conventional central heating system |
REGULAR, SYSTEM or COMBI |
There is a need to have hot water
available on tap without waiting for it to heat up. |
COMBI |
|