Choosing the best replacement boiler type

Heating products and services have improved considerably over the past decade. New boilers are more efficient and more cost effective. They have a host of features that can help improve the heating in your home while reducing the cost of heating a property. While none of us cherish the idea of having to replace an old boiler, doing so can bring notable improvements to your daily life. Below are the three most common types of boiler used in modern homes.

Types of boiler

Combi boiler – a combi boiler works as a sealed system. It heats water directly from the mains when required. There is no need for a hot water cylinder, which means there’s no need for a cistern in the loft either. They save space, cut down installation time, and deliver water at mains pressure. However, the priority system can only effectively deliver water to one heating system at a time, so a combi boiler may not be suitable for larger families or large properties.

System boiler – the system boiler makes up part of a sealed system. Unlike a combi, system boilers store hot water in a cylinder, and this water can be delivered to multiple outlets at the same time and at mains pressure. However, the hot water can run out if the system is used too heavily. It is also claimed that this type of system is more complex and can suffer more problems than a combi.

Conventional boiler – a conventional boiler has a separate hot water cylinder, usually in the loft. Nowadays, this type of boiler is only usually bought as a replacement for an existing conventional boiler. Water can be delivered at a decent pressure to taps, but pressure can be low if the system does not benefit from enough gravity. Like a system boiler, this type of setup can also experience a loss of hot water, when the water in the tank runs out. This is also the most expensive type of boiler to buy and install.

Choosing a boiler for your home

The type of boiler you choose is only one decision to make when buying a boiler. Typically, smaller homes will benefit from a combi boiler, while large properties and large families may find the lack of pressure a problem and opt for a system boiler. If you’re replacing an existing conventional boiler, then you will want to choose a replacement boiler of the same type or face paying for a whole new heating and hot water system.

Consider the range and ease of controls, the reliability of the model of boiler you opt for, and the level of support and reliability that is offered by the manufacturer. If you’re still not sure which boiler would be best for your home, contact us at Shaw’s Plumbing and Heating today for further guidance and advice.