There are three main types of boilers: Combination, System and Open Vent.
Combination Boilers
Combination boilers (combi boilers) will be the most popular boiler that is fitted in the UK right now. Combination boilers are units that get rid of the need for a warm water tank, and so save space in the home as no airing cupboard is necessary no space is adopted in the loft. As the name suggests, combination boilers combine two functions - not only do they provide warm water to a property, they also become a central heating boilers. Combination boilers run 'on demand' which means they provide instant hot water when required.
Pros of combination boilers:
- Space saving.
- Saves money because there is no hot water tank which must be constantly heated to help keep the water hot.
- Water received through taps along with other outlets reaches mains pressure
- Less pipe work is necessary when installing so installation is generally quicker.
Cons of combination boilers:
- As the water supplied by combination boilers is 'on demand' at mains pressure, if several outlets are opened simultaneously (taps/showers/washing machines) the pressure could be reduced based on how powerful the boiler is.
System Boilers
System boilers (sealed system boilers) include a sealed unit that always runs at about 1 bar of pressure. System boilers require a water storage cylinder to store the hot water for the property, which is generally installed in an airing cupboard.
Pros of system boilers:
- Good for homes with more than one bathroom as the kind of boiler system can deliver warm water, at exactly the same pressure, to many outlets simultaneously.
- No dependence on an expansion tank in the loft this provides you with you more storage space in the attic.
- High water pressure.
Cons of system boilers:
- Can be expensive to correct and install.
- Airing cupboard is necessary.
Boiler installation Colchester are usually linked to two tanks housed in the loft space of a property. One of these brilliant tanks is a small 'feed and expansion' tank that is used to supply water to the boiler and radiators, another is a larger cool water storage tank which provides the water required for an open vented hot water cylinder.
Pros of open vent boilers:
- Mainly utilized in properties where there are many outlets (taps etc.) that could be used at the same time.
- Relatively inexpensive to replace.
Cons of open vent boilers:
- Low water pressure.
- If the warm water cylinder empties you could have to wait some time for this to re-fill and then warm up.
- Takes up a lot of space compared to other boilers.
As you can see there are pros and cons for each type of boiler, in case you are still unsure as to which boiler will best suit your needs, most good boiler installers will advise according to the list below:
If you have a set or bungalow without roof space - Combi Boiler.
If your premises has 2 or more bathrooms - System or Open Vented.
If you are in an area with low mains water pressure - System or Open Vented.
If you are seeking to upgrade an existing conventional boiler to high efficiency - System, Open vented or Combi.
If there are lots of people in your premises requiring hot water on demand - Combi or System boiler with a warm water cylinder.
If your property is really a loft conversion - Combi.
When purchasing boilers for installation in the home, or in the workplace, it is always advisable to get hold of an installer who has all the relevant qualifications to complete the job accurately and safely. A reputable installer of boilers may also offer you the best advice concerning which system will suit your requirements. Do not attempt to install a boiler system yourself if you don't are fully qualified.