Combination known as Combi boilers are now the most popular choice of boiler for people in the UK. However, whilst they may be ideal for smaller families, they are not necessarily the best option in all circumstances.
Why should you get a new boiler?
There are a few reasons why you may want to consider purchasing a new boiler.
- You could save money – You want the boiler you choose is as efficient as possible, as we know that 50% of our energy bills goes towards heating the home. If your current boiler is rated poorly or older than ten years, you should look into replacing it. The Energy Saving Trust estimates this could save you up to £310 and produce 1220kg less per year.
- Gain greater control – Having an older boiler does not allow us to have much control, which results in energy being wasted, because heating and hot water are supplied when they are not needed. New boilers, however, are fitted with programmers, thermostats and thermostatic radiator valves and can be used with smart heating controls. This allows us as homeowners to have more control.
- More convenient – Older boilers take up much more room and are noisier than the modern one’s today. Replacing your boiler is one possible option in making more space available in your home.
- Beyond repair – Sometimes the boiler you have is no longer feasible to repair and makes more sense to pay for a new boiler, rather than continually spending money to keep the old one running.
Which boiler?
Once decided on what new boiler you should get, you need to decide which one to purchase. There are many types to consider.
Combi boiler
Combi boilers come in either gas or electric and work by drawing water from the mains supply and heating it, as you need it. They also provide on-demand heating to your radiators and hot water. It can fit easily into most kitchen or storage cupboards, making them ideal for smaller families in houses with limited space.
On the other hand, they cannot effectively supply more than one tap at a time, which means they are not really suited for larger houses/families.
Conventional boiler
Conventional boilers require more space but can deal with a greater demand for hot water. They are better equipped for houses with multiple bathrooms, or when the demand for hot water is high. These boilers supply hot water to multiple taps and are easy to replace. However, they do take up more space and the hot water can run out when the tank empties and it needs time to reheat.
System boiler
A system boiler is similar to conventional boilers in their need for a cylinder, but they do not require a feed tank in the loft, meaning loft space will be left available. The installation of one of these is also easier as they house many of the components, a conventional boiler does not.
