What boiler should I buy?
The Helpful Plumber get asked this question a lot – especially building upto and into winter with the cold, damp and dark nights setting in! Before deciding on a new boiler, it is important to know what type of system is suitable. The Helpful plumber will discuss the main types that are easily available (click to view):
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The combi boiler is currently the most popular type of boiler in the UK. they provide both heat and hot water so there’s no need for tanks or cylinders! The pros and cons of each are discussed below.
Pros
- Unlimited heat and hot water on demand.
- No need for large tanks!
- No large tank, means not much space is needed!
Cons
- Water pressure can be reduced if you use more than one set of taps at a time i.e. upstairs and downstairs.
- Installation can be more difficult.
The great thing about combi boilers is that they are suitable for almost any home. They are very suited for homes where lots of people won’t need hot water at the exact same time.
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System boilers are installed with a water cyclinder and no water tank (they usually sit in an airing cupboard).
Pros
- No need for a large tank to reside in your loft.
- Can get hot water from different taps at the same time without a loss of pressure
Cons
- No instant hot water.
- Hot water will run out and then you have to wait for the boiler to reheat before resuming hot water.
- Need to have space for a cylinder.
These boilers are suitable for homes that require hot water in different places at the same time.
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These are your “regular” boilers – having both a cylinder and a tank.
Pros
- Can get hot water from different taps at the same time without a loss of pressure
Cons
- No instant hot water.
- Hot water will run out and then you have to wait for the boiler to reheat before resuming hot water.
- Need to have space for a cylinder AND tank.
These boilers are suitable for homes that require hot water in different places at the same time.
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Other things to consider…
Condensing boilers
Whilst not really a boiler type, instead more of an attribute or an extra that your boiler can have. A condensing boiler is very efficient due to the capture of heat that would normally escape from the flue (when the boiler is non-condensing) and then re-use it! Inturn yoy get more heat from the same amount of fuel and that equals SAVING MONEY!
Energy efficient boilers
The good news is since 2010, all new boilers have to be energy efficient with all new boilers being A-rated or at least 88% efficient.
The energy efficiency rating system for boilers is called SEDBUK (Seasonal Efficiency of Domestic Boilers in the UK). All boilers are assessed and given a rating to help you pick a boiler that is energy-efficient, or see how efficient your existing boiler is.
What brand should I choose?
First of all, the Helpful Plumber can install and brand of boiler from worcester to potterton! We personally recommend Baxi boiler installations as we are able to offer a TEN YEAR warranty on these boilers! No other manufacturer offers such fantastic piece of mind.
Boiler installation
Don’t attempt to install a replacement boiler yourself – leave it to the professionals. The Helpful Plumber guarantees that your boiler will be fitted and installed the best and right way. It’s not just about putting the boiler on the wall and attaching pipes and valves. We are boiler experts with over 6 years of experience. We will ensure that your boiler works in the most efficient manner possible. Find out more about our boiler services by clicking here. We offer boiler installation services for Birmingham, Bromsgrove, Redditch and Worcester. Including all areas in between and surrounding!
