When considering a new boiler for your home it’s useful to know the three main boiler types, as some are more suited to certain types of properties than others.

Combination Boilers

Combination boilers (or combi boilers) heat water directly from the mains supply when you turn the tap on, so you won’t need a hot water cylinder or any storage tanks.

This means combi boilers are perfect for smaller houses and flats. They are also very energy-efficient, because water isn’t being constantly heated and stored, but instead it’s heated on demand. Another benefit of combi boilers is that they usually deliver hot water at mains pressure, great for those who love a powerful shower! Although this does also mean pressure may be reduced when more than one tap is running at the same time.

Conventional Boilers

Conventional boilers (sometimes called traditional, Heat Only or regular boilers) are linked to a separate hot water cylinder, and also require space for two storage tanks in the loft- one to feed the hot water system and one for the central heating.

These are best suited to older properties with more traditional radiator systems that might not cope well with high pressure. They are also ideal in homes with two or more bathrooms, where a lot of hot water will be used at the same time. Once the supply has run out though, it may take a while for the tank to refill and for hot water to come through again.

System Boilers

System boilers also require a hot water storage cylinder, but the main heating components are built in to the boiler itself, making for a straightforward installation.

These boilers still require a cylinder (which is unvented) but don’t require storage or header tanks. System boilers are economical to run and can provide a constant hot water supply to all the taps in your home at the same time, great for busy households!

All three types are also condensing boilers

It’s also worth noting that all boilers are ‘condensing’. This means that the boiler is around 90% efficient through heat recovery from the flue gases. As the flue gas cools (condenses) it produces a small amount of acidic water which the drains via a plastic pipe to an internal or external waste.

Does your boiler need repairing or replacing? Give us a call today to chat to our friendly team about the best option for your home.