What Types of Boilers Are Available for Installation? A Comprehensive Guide

The process of selecting the right boiler for your home can be a daunting task. With numerous factors to consider, such as energy efficiency, cost, and compatibility with your home’s heating needs, it’s crucial to make an informed decision. This comprehensive guide will explore the various types of boilers available for installation, their advantages and disadvantages, and factors to consider when choosing a boiler for your home.

Understanding Boilers: An Overview

A boiler is a heating system that generates hot water or steam to heat your home. They work by burning a fuel source, such as natural gas, oil, or biomass, to heat water, which is then circulated through radiators or underfloor heating systems. The key components of a boiler include the heat exchanger, burner, controls, and expansion tank.

Types of Boilers: A Breakdown

There are three main types of boilers available for installation: combi boilers, system boilers, and regular (conventional) boilers. Each type offers its unique benefits and drawbacks.

Combi Boilers

How they work: Combi boilers are compact units that provide both heating and hot water on demand. They heat water directly from the mains supply, eliminating the need for a separate hot water storage tank.

Advantages: Combi boilers are space-saving, energy-efficient, and cost-effective. They provide hot water instantly, without waiting for a storage tank to heat up.

Disadvantages: Combi boilers may struggle to supply hot water to multiple outlets simultaneously. They might not be suitable for larger homes with multiple bathrooms or high hot water demands.

System Boilers

How they work: System boilers require a separate hot water storage cylinder but have most of their major components built-in, making installation easier and faster.

Advantages: System boilers can supply hot water to multiple outlets simultaneously, making them suitable for larger homes. They offer faster installation and require less space than regular boilers.

Disadvantages: System boilers still require a hot water cylinder, which can take up space. They may be less energy-efficient than combi boilers due to heat loss from the storage cylinder.

Regular (Conventional) Boilers

How they work: Regular boilers require both a hot water cylinder and a cold-water storage tank, usually located in the loft. They heat the water in the cylinder, which is then distributed throughout the home.

Advantages: Regular boilers can supply hot water to multiple outlets simultaneously and are compatible with older radiator systems. They’re a good option for homes with low water pressure.

Disadvantages: Regular boilers take up more space due to the need for a cold-water storage tank and hot water cylinder. They are less energy-efficient compared to combi and system boilers.

Fuel Options for Boilers

There are four main fuel options for boilers: natural gas, oil, electric, and biomass. Each option has its advantages and environmental impact.

Natural Gas Boilers

Efficiency: Natural gas boilers are highly efficient, with modern condensing models reaching up to 94% efficiency.

Environmental impact: Natural gas is a fossil fuel, but it produces less carbon dioxide emissions than oil or coal.

Oil Boilers

Efficiency: Oil boilers are also highly efficient, with modern condensing models reaching up to 93% efficiency.

Environmental impact: Oil is a fossil fuel with higher carbon emissions than natural gas, but it’s still a viable option for homes without access to a natural gas supply.

Electric Boilers

Efficiency: Electric boilers can be nearly 100% efficient, as there is no heat loss from flue gases.

Environmental impact: Electric boilers produce zero emissions at the point of use. However, their overall environmental impact depends on the source of electricity. If powered by renewable energy sources, they are the most eco-friendly option.

 Biomass Boilers

Efficiency: Biomass boilers can achieve efficiencies of up to 90%, depending on the quality of the fuel and the boiler itself.

Environmental impact: Biomass boilers use renewable fuel sources, such as wood pellets or chips, making them a more sustainable option. However, they do produce some emissions during combustion.

Energy Efficiency Ratings and Boiler Performance

Understanding energy efficiency ratings: Boilers are rated by their Seasonal Efficiency of Domestic Boilers in the UK (SEDBUK) rating, which ranges from A+++ (most efficient) to G (least efficient). Modern boilers typically have a rating of A or higher.

Importance of high-efficiency boilers: High-efficiency boilers consume less fuel, reducing energy bills and carbon emissions. They are also more reliable and require less maintenance.

Tips for maximizing boiler efficiency: Regular maintenance, proper insulation, and using energy-saving devices, such as smart thermostats, can help maximize boiler efficiency.

Cost and Installation Factors

Upfront costs

Boiler prices: The price of a new boiler varies depending on the type, brand, and size. Combi boilers typically cost between £1,500 and £3,500, system boilers between £1,500 and £2,800, and regular boilers between £1,800 and £3,800.

Installation costs: Installation costs vary based on the complexity of the job and the installer’s fees. Expect to pay between £500 and £1,500 for a standard installation.

Ongoing costs

Maintenance: Regular boiler servicing is essential for maintaining efficiency and prolonging the life of your boiler. Annual servicing costs can range from £70 to £120.

Fuel costs: Fuel costs will depend on the type of fuel your boiler uses and the efficiency of the boiler itself. Natural gas is typically the cheapest option, followed by oil, electricity, and biomass.

Grants and financial incentives for energy-efficient boilers: There are various government grants and incentives available to help offset the cost of installing an energy-efficient boiler. These include the Green Homes Grant, the Energy Company Obligation (ECO) scheme, and the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI).

Choosing the Right Boiler for Your Home

1. Assessing your home’s heating and hot water needs: Consider the size of your home, the number of radiators, and your hot water usage when selecting a boiler.

Factors to consider in selecting a boiler: In addition to your home’s heating needs, consider factors such as boiler efficiency, fuel type, space requirements, and your budget.

Seeking professional advice: Consult with a heating engineer or professional installer to help you select the right boiler for your home.

Conclusion

Selecting the right boiler is crucial for energy efficiency, cost savings, and meeting your home’s heating and hot water needs. By understanding the differences between combi, system, and regular boilers, as well as considering factors such as fuel type, efficiency, and cost, you can make an informed decision that will keep your home warm and comfortable for years to come.

Ready to Upgrade Your Boiler? Contact Heat Quick Direct Today!

Don’t let an outdated or inefficient boiler compromise your home’s comfort and energy savings. Heat Quick Direct is here to help you make the best choice for your home’s heating and hot water needs. Our team of experienced and certified professionals is dedicated to providing top-notch installation, repair, and maintenance services for all types of boilers.

At Heat Quick Direct, we prioritize customer satisfaction and take pride in delivering high-quality services at competitive prices. We’re happy to offer a free, no-obligation consultation to help you choose the perfect boiler for your home.

Contact Heat Quick Direct today at 0203 697 1259

How to Choose the Perfect Combi Boiler for Your London Home

London Homeowners’ Guide to Boiler Replacement

 

What it Takes to Change from Conventional Boiler to a Combi Boiler

Do you wish to replace your old boiler with a combi boiler?

Changing from one sort of boiler to another may be a journey into the unknown, especially if you’ve never had a combi boiler before and are moving from an old back boiler, heat only, or system boiler.

Many individuals would prefer to stay with what they are used to, but in some cases switching to a combi boiler makes sense. It’s crucial to think about whether a combi boiler is suitable for your home, especially if you have a large property with a heavy demand for hot water.

The cost of a boiler conversion is generally greater than a comparable replacement since it usually takes more time and manpower.

What else should you know? We’ll answer the most frequently asked questions about converting to a combi in this article, as well as costs, common situations, and whether it’s worthwhile or not.

Why change to a combi boiler?

The efficiency gains of switching from an older boiler type to a modern combi boiler are among the most important reasons for converting.

However, because combi boilers heat cold water directly from the mains and do not require maintaining a constant supply of hot water, they are generally much more energy-efficient, allowing you to save money on your power bills while also reducing energy waste.

Another important consideration is that they are smaller and have fewer components than system and heat-only boilers, making servicing and maintenance easier and less expensive.

The good news is that in the case of high demand for hot water, such as with many bathrooms, a hybrid combi boiler can still provide benefits.

What is a combi boiler?

A combi is a boiler that combines hot water and heating into a single device, which is generally wall-mounted.

This is in contrast to conventional home heating systems, which were formerly made up of an immersion heater fed with water from a header tank in the attic.

The immersion heater had to be switched on considerably ahead of time in order for hot water to be available, so it wasn’t on-demand, and because they are such inefficient machines, they cost a lot of money to run.

In comparison to other types of boilers, which require regular monitoring and maintenance, a combi boiler offers significant savings in operating costs over time because it requires no storage of hot water. Over time, this adds up to big savings on your monthly energy bill.

They were also significantly more expensive, requiring many more components to construct and therefore taking up considerably more room. As a result, they were frequently considered far less attractive.

Benefits of combi boilers

1 They are extremely efficient

A combi (combination) boiler is the ideal option if you’re searching for a highly energy-efficient heating system. They may also be used to heat water, saving you a lot of money on utility bills. In reality, according to the Energy Saving Trust

2 Combi boilers have a compact size

The pros and cons of these systems are similar to those of larger on-demand water heaters, but there’s one key difference: their tiny size makes them perfect for even the tiniest residential properties. Because they use the mains as the water supply, you won’t have to worry about fitting in a heavy water tank or cylinder.

In reality, some of the smallest combi boilers are marketed and sold as “cupboard-fit” combi boilers.

3 Hot water on-demand

Another advantage of these tanks is that because they can heat the water immediately, you won’t have to worry about running out of water in your hot water storage tank or having enough water available.

4 Installation location more flexible

Because a combi is small and single unit, it generally offers more choice as to where it may be put within your home. This isn’t always the case with systems and traditional boilers that require a storage tank and/or overhead tank, which can restrict your choices significantly.

What are the steps involved in converting from a standard boiler to a combi boiler?

When it comes to converting a standard boiler to a combi, there are several steps you must go through. It’s smart to understand about the whole process so you can appreciate the time, money, and work involved.

Changing to a combi boiler

The Gas Safe engineer will come to your property and do the following once you’ve booked your boiler replacement:

• Drain the existing central heating system, including the boiler and radiators.
• Remove the old/existing boiler.
• Remove cylinders and header tank (in the attic).
• Install 22mm gas piping.
• Fit the new combi boiler.
• Flush the heating system with a chemical/power solution.
• Install a smart thermostat e.g. Nest or Hive.
• Set up the smart thermostat with the new boiler.
• Fill out the warranty registration form.
• Carry out safety checks.
• Provide the appropriate building regulation accreditation.
• Offer a quick rundown of the new system and how to use it to the customer.

How long does it take to convert from a conventional boiler to a combi?

Carrying out a boiler conversion rather than a simple combi swap takes somewhat longer than installing a standard boiler.

It will take about two days to complete most tasks, but the time required might differ. This is opposed to a simple like-for-like replacement, which takes only one day.

If you need your boiler system converted Heat Quick Direct can take care of it for you

How to Choose the Perfect Combi Boiler for Your London Home

London Homeowners’ Guide to Boiler Replacement

Things to consider when having a combi boiler installed

Combi boilers are a popular type of boiler in the UK, and can be an option if you need to replace your existing one. They offer many convenient and efficient features which make them highly sought after by homeowners and landlords alike. If you want to find out more about what a combi boiler is, or why they appeal so much to people who use them, this article will explain everything you need to know.

For anyone that has owned or lived with one before, it can be hard to imagine life without a combi boiler as they’re incredibly convenient and versatile. Renters may even wonder whether they should consider getting one fitted if their current unit is unreliable or inefficient.

When comparing two combi boilers from different manufacturers, the first thing to look at is how much power they produce, and this can be roughly gauged by comparing their kW ratings. The higher the number, the more power it will use in order to heat your home. It should be noted that a more powerful boiler does not necessarily mean it’s going to cost you more money as some of them are designed to operate very efficiently once installed.

A combi boiler offers great value for money because they do double duty as a conventional boiler and hot water tank which both saves space and reduces energy consumption in comparison with standalone units. If you want one fitted, then there are several benefits.

The most important aspects are reliability and efficiency, if you can’t rely on your boiler to work when it’s needed then it’s going to be a huge problem in the long run. It goes without saying that you’ll also want a high quality finish so that it looks good in your home and stands up well over time.

Combi boilers are generally quieter than conventional ones. Consumers should always make sure their new system comes with an RHI (renewable heat incentive) incentive tag as these are exempt from VAT. This essentially means you get the best possible price, and will lower your running costs in comparison with other models on the market.

Finally, there’s an option to have a condensing combi boiler installed; this simply means that air is removed from the system and moisture turned into water vapour before it leaves the unit. This results in less gas being wasted and lowers energy consumption even further. 

Combi boilers Should be fitted by Gas Safe Registered professionals, so make sure you only use someone who has gone through rigorous training and follows safe procedures when installing new systems or making repairs, no matter what type of boiler they’re working on. 

How to choose a combi boiler?

When doing this, it’s essential to consider the size of your home in order to find combi boilers providing enough hot water for you and your family. If you already know which size is best for you, both electric powered and gas-powered models offer great energy-saving features.

Another thing you need to pay attention to is power. The greater output a combination boiler has, the better it will be in heating your home and providing domestic hot water for all family members. Output is measured usually in kilowatts. The most popular combi boilers for UK homes have from 35 kW to 80 kW of output as providing up to 80% of total heat required by properties that are located in central England and are 2-4 storeys high. 

Best Combi boiler Models

We have taken a look at some of the best combi boiler models to make it easier for you to find your favourite. We’ll start with vaillant and worcester bosch. When buying a vaillant combi boiler you need to weigh up whether or not you want an oil or gas version. The vaillant va-4105 ecotec plus eco is one example of a device that will use 40% less energy than other models on the market (while still being Energy Saving Recommended). Another vaillant model; va-4095 ecotec plus eco, is designed so that life cycle costs are as low as possible while meeting strict vaillant energy efficiency standards. Worchester bosch also offers vaillant-designed products; the worcester bosch va-wmb 35/14 va-50/14 va-60/12 va-65/15 are some of their more popular options.

Worcester bosch offer an excellent intellicontrol system which uses Wifi technology to make it easy for you to control your heating remotely via a smartphone or tablet device. You can access features such as time and temperature settings, live data on power usage and much more; all this is done quickly and easily without requiring any specialist knowledge. One other thing that worcester bosch offer with their devices is ecoFlex fuel supply technology, which means that you can switch seamlessly from one fuel type to another. 

Features of vaillant and worcester bosch devices

Both vaillant and worcester bosch offer models which are suitable for medium sized homes, though vaillant also provides options for larger properties should you need them; va-4003 ecotec plus eco is an excellent example of this. It comes with features such as a trusted venting system (which ensures the safety of the device) while its price tag makes it great value for money. Another vaillant device worth considering is va-65100 vaillant va-v180 eco vertical; this is designed to be suitable for larger properties and uses heat exchangers rather than radiators to help save energy.

Combi boilers – vaillant va-4095 ecotec plus eco

This vaillant combi boiler is designed to use 40% less energy than other models on the market and features a venting system which has been tested for safety over 1 million times! These tests ensure that your device will always be safe to use and will not cause any unnecessary wear and tear in your home. The va-4095 ecotec plus eco also features an upgraded version of vaillant’s additional flexicontrol, meaning you can easily control temperature settings from different rooms. You’ll find it easier than ever before to reduce your home’s energy usage thanks to the vaillant intellicontrol Wifi technology.

The vaillant va-4105 ecotec plus eco

Another great vaillant combi boiler which comes with all the features you need. It has a capacity of 8.0kw, meaning that it will be suitable for medium to large sized homes. Energy saving recommended vaillant combi boilers like this one have been tested rigorously and come with an energy efficiency rating of A+. They also feature vaillant’s efficient heat recovery system (ehs), allowing you to easily store heat from your hot water supply so you don’t lose out on warmth. If you want to save even more money, then the vaillant va-4115 ecotec plus eco may be right for you; this device comes with vaillant intellicontrol Wifi connectivity, allowing you to control your heating from anywhere in your home. Combination boilers such as va-4105 vaillant va-v180 eco vertical and va-4115 vaillant va-v180 eco vertical have been designed to be suitable for both small and medium sized homes; they use heat exchangers instead of radiators for added energy efficiency.

For more information Check out our Ultimate Guide to Central Heating UK

Also, Check

Converting from a Conventional to a Combi Boiler in London Homes

What Types of Boilers Are Available for Installation in London