Your guide to the different types of boilers.

This article is modified from EonNext.

 

It’s important to pick the right type of boiler system for your central heating system and hot water needs, and we’re here to help.

What are the different types of boilers?

There are three main types of boilers that you can get in your home:

• Combi or combination boilers.
• System boilers.
• Regular boilers (also called heat only boilers or conventional boilers).

 

Each boiler type has advantages and disadvantages and the one that’s best for you will mostly depend on your current heating and hot water demands.

 

If it’s time to get a new boiler then it’s a good idea to consider whether you should stick with the type of boiler system you have or swap to a different type of central heating boiler.

What is a combination boiler (combi boiler)?

A combi boiler is a single stand-alone unit that generates all of the heating and hot water for your home. Unlike other boilers it doesn’t have a hot water tank or separate water cylinder.

How does a combi boiler work?

A combi boiler uses an integral heat exchanger to heat water directly from the cold mains. This means it’s able to provide instantaneous hot water for your home.

 

Because combi boilers don’t require a separate water tank, they take up less space than the other two boiler types.

What are the advantages of a combi boiler?

• Instant heating and hot water. You get it when you need it.
• Space saving as no separate hot water tank. Ideal for smaller properties.
• Easy installation. You only need to have one unit fitted.
• High energy efficiency. Combi boilers are over 90% efficient.
• Easier to maintain.

What are the disadvantages of a combi boiler?

• Reduced water flow rates when you’re using hot water at two or more outlets. For example, two showers at the same time.
• Don’t work well in homes with poor water flow rates and/or poor water pressure.
• Not compatible with solar water heating systems.

 

Contact us today to learn more about combi boilers and whether they’re right for your home.

What is a regular/conventional/heat only boiler?

A regular boiler (or heat only boiler or conventional boiler) only provides heating to your home. They connect to a separate hot water cylinder and a cold water storage tank.

How does a regular boiler work?

Similar to a combi boiler, a regular or conventional boiler has a heat exchanger that warms water and then uses a pump to transport the water to a water storage tank. The hot water then flows through to the radiators to heat them or into your tap when you switch them on.

 

The cold water is supplied to your home using the cold water tank, which is typically in the loft/attic. It fills the boiler with the help of gravity.

What are the advantages of a regular boiler?

• Work well with older heating systems as they don’t rely on mains pressure.
• Suitable for homes with greater hot water demands as they provide a higher flow rate.
• Lower replacement costs as regular/conventional boilers are generally the cheapest type of boilers to buy.
• Can work with solar water heating systems to help lower your bills.

What are the disadvantages of a regular boiler?

• Hot water isn’t always available on demand so you may need to wait to have a shower.
• Regular boilers aren’t as efficient as combi boilers as heat is lost when the water is stored in the cylinder.
• You’ll need plenty of space in your home to house the hot water cylinder and cold water tank.
• May not be compatible with some newer central heating systems.

 

Contact us today to learn more about regular boilers and whether they’re right for your home.

What is a system boiler?

A system boiler combines a boiler and separate hot water cylinder to provide heating and hot water to your home. System boilers don’t have a cold water tank and many of the components like the pumps and valves that you’ll find separate with a regular (conventional boiler) are in-built with a system boiler.

 

System boilers are also referred to as closed-vent or system sealed boilers.

How do system boilers work?

System boilers work with a hot water cylinder. They’re not “open vented”, which means there are no tanks in the loft and are essentially an updated version of regular boilers.

What are the advantages of a system boiler?

• Good for properties that need a lot of hot water at the same time, for example multiple bathrooms.
• No need for a cold water tank.
• You don’t need any components in the attic, perfect if you’re looking to convert it.
• Work well with underfloor heating.

What are the disadvantages of a system boiler?

• The water flow rate depends on the main pressure. So if there’s low pressure in your area the water flow rate throughout your home will be worse.
• You’ll need to have space for the hot water cylinder, for example an air cupboard.
• If you use up all the hot water in the cylinder then it’ll take a while to reheat.

 

Contact us today to learn more about system boilers and whether they’re right for your home.

In Summary

Choosing the right boiler for your home is essential to ensure both comfort and energy efficiency. This quick guide has walked you through the three main types of boilers: combi boilers, regular boilers, and system boilers, each with their unique features and benefits. 

 

Whether you need instant hot water, a higher flow rate, or a space-saving solution, there’s a boiler system to meet your needs. When deciding, consider factors like your home’s size, hot water demands, and existing heating system. If you’re unsure about which boiler type is best for your home, contact us today to explore your options and make an informed decision.