Discover different types of boilers for your UK home – from energy-efficient combi boilers for smaller houses to system boilers for larger homes, and more.
Combi Boilers: Compact and Efficient
Combi boilers are a space-saving option, as they provide heating and hot water directly from one unit without needing a separate water tank. They are ideal for smaller homes or flats, offering instant hot water on demand. These boilers are energy-efficient because they only heat water when needed, reducing energy waste.
However, they may struggle to meet high water demands in larger households. Combi boilers are typically powered by gas, though electric models are available. If space is limited and you require a cost-effective solution, a combi boiler could be the right choice for your home.
System Boilers: Ideal for Larger Households
System boilers are well-suited for homes with multiple bathrooms, as they store hot water in a separate cylinder.
Unlike conventional boilers, they do not require a cold water tank, making installation easier. They offer a steady supply of hot water, making them ideal for larger families where multiple taps may be used simultaneously.
These boilers are usually powered by gas but can also run on oil or electricity. While they take up more space than a combi boiler, their ability to handle higher water demand makes them a practical option for bigger households.
Conventional Boilers: A Traditional Choice
Conventional boilers, also known as regular or heat-only boilers, are best suited for homes with an existing central heating system that includes a separate hot water cylinder and cold water tank. They provide a reliable source of hot water, making them ideal for larger properties with multiple bathrooms.
However, they require more space due to the extra tanks and take longer to heat water compared to combi boilers. These boilers are commonly used in older homes with traditional heating setups. If you have high water demand and enough storage space, a conventional boiler may be a suitable option.
Gas Boilers: Cost-Effective and Popular
Gas boilers are the most commonly used heating system in UK homes due to their affordability and efficiency. They connect to the mains gas supply, providing a reliable and continuous source of heat and hot water.
Gas boilers come in combi, system, and conventional models, making them a versatile choice for different household sizes. They are generally more cost-effective to run than electric or oil boilers, though installation requires a gas connection.
Regular servicing is necessary to ensure safety and efficiency. If your home has access to mains gas, a gas boiler is likely the most economical option.
Electric Boilers: A Low-Carbon Option
Electric boilers are an environmentally friendly alternative, as they produce no emissions during operation. They are ideal for homes without a mains gas supply and are easy to install, requiring only an electricity connection.
Electric boilers are compact and quiet, making them suitable for flats or smaller homes. However, they can be more expensive to run compared to gas or oil boilers, as electricity prices tend to be higher. They are best suited for homes with lower heating and hot water demand. If reducing your carbon footprint is a priority, an electric boiler is worth considering.
Oil Boilers: Reliable in Rural Areas
Oil boilers are a practical choice for homes that are not connected to the gas network. They use stored oil to generate heat and provide hot water, making them a reliable option in rural locations.
These boilers are available in combi, system, and conventional models to suit different household needs. While they require regular oil deliveries and a storage tank, they can be more cost-effective than electric boilers.
Modern oil boilers are highly efficient, reducing fuel consumption. If your home is off-grid and you need a dependable heating solution, an oil boiler could be the right option.
Do you need to replace a boiler in Uppingham, Oakham, Stamford or Rutland? Robert Cliff Ltd has been working in the plumbing and heating service since 1847. There have been five generations of the Cliffs running the business since then.
We offer services to both domestic and commercial customers. Our charges are highly competitive and realistic. Do you want to find out more about boiler installations in Uppingham, Rutland or Oakham? Please follow the link below.