Every boiler needs replacing eventually, but choosing the right one can be a real headache. The last thing you want is to end up with a colder home, higher bills, and buyer's remorse!

To help you make an informed decision, the boiler experts at Greenstar have put together this guide. Read on to learn the three most common types of residential boilers, their pros and cons, and key factors to consider when choosing the perfect fit for your home!

Combi Boilers

Ideal for: Smaller homes with one or two bathrooms, where water pressure is adequate.

Not ideal for: Larger homes with multiple bathrooms or high hot water demands.

A combi boiler is a compact unit that heats water on demand while also providing central heating. It offers instant hot water and saves space, but it can struggle to meet high hot water demands in larger households or when multiple taps are used simultaneously.

Pros of Combi Boilers

  • Combi boilers are highly efficient as they heat water on demand, reducing heat loss.
  • They don't require additional tanks for water storage, freeing up valuable space.
  • You can enjoy unlimited hot water whenever you need it.
  • They're typically simpler to install than traditional boilers.
  • There are fewer components to maintain than with other boiler types.

Cons of Combi Boilers

  • A good water supply is essential for their performance.
  • Might have trouble providing hot water to several taps at once.
  • Freezing pipes can be a problem in cold weather.
  • Combi boilers tend to be pricier to buy and set up compared to other options.

Conventional Boilers

Ideal for: Larger homes with multiple bathrooms, where space is not a major issue and consistent hot water supply is essential.

Not ideal for: Smaller homes with limited space.

Also known as regular boilers, conventional systems require a separate hot water cylinder and cold water tank. They can store hot water for multiple bathrooms or showers. While often cheaper to install than combi boilers, they tend to be less efficient and take up more space.

Pros of Conventional Boilers

  • They're able to supply multiple hot water outlets simultaneously without any loss of pressure.
  • The hot water cylinder provides a steady supply of hot water once heated.
  • They're generally less expensive to install than combi boilers.
  • They can handle high hot water demands and multiple bathrooms.

Cons of Conventional Boilers

  • You'll need space in your loft for a cold water tank and a cupboard for the hot water cylinder.
  • The hot water in the cylinder can cool over time, wasting energy.
  • Once the hot water runs out, you'll need to wait for the cylinder to reheat.
  • While they've become more efficient, combi boilers are usually more energy efficient overall.

System Boilers

Ideal for: Medium-sized homes with multiple bathrooms.

Not ideal for: Small homes without room for a cylinder.

System boilers offer a middle ground between the efficiency of combi boilers and the hot water capacity of conventional boilers. They use a hot water cylinder but don't require a cold water tank. They're generally more efficient than conventional boilers, but can be more expensive to install than combi boilers.

Pros of System Boilers

  • Like conventional boilers, system boilers deliver hot water to multiple taps at once without losing pressure.
  • Unlike conventional boilers, system boilers don't need a cold water tank in the loft, giving you more space.
  • System boilers are often more efficient than conventional boilers because they don't rely on a cold water tank.
  • System boilers can work together with solar panels to save even more energy.

Cons of System Boilers

  • You'll need space for a hot water cylinder, usually found in an airing cupboard.
  • System boilers tend to cost more to install than combi boilers.
  • Like conventional boilers, there's a risk of heat loss from the hot water cylinder.

Which Boiler Should You Choose For Your Home?

The boiler you choose for your home will have a big impact on your comfort, energy bills, and environmental footprint. Here are some questions to help you make the right decision:

  • How big is your home? Evaluate the number of bathrooms, radiators, and the overall dimensions of your property.
  • How much hot water will you need? Consider the number of people living in your home and your typical hot water usage patterns.
  • How much space do you have to spare? Assess the available space for boiler installation and any additional components like cylinders.
  • What's your budget? Compare the initial installation costs and ongoing energy efficiency of different boiler types.
  • What level of energy efficiency are you looking for? Look for boilers with high energy ratings to reduce your carbon footprint and energy bills.

Beyond these factors, it's also essential to get expert advice. A qualified heating engineer, like the experts at Greenstar, can assess your home's specific needs and recommend the perfect boiler. They'll help you choose the right size, handle installation, and provide ongoing maintenance.

Expert Boiler Installations for Homes Across the South

Is your old boiler on its last legs? Greenstar can help you upgrade to a new, efficient system. With over 30 years of experience serving homes across the South, our Gas Safe registered engineers deliver the top-quality boiler installation you're looking for.

Here's what makes us stand out:

  • We can install a wide range of boilers, from combi to system boilers, in properties of all shapes and sizes. Not sure which type you'd benefit from the most? We're happy to discuss your needs and recommend the perfect option for you.
  • All of our engineers are highly trained and qualified to work on boiler systems, and are usually able to complete installations within 24 hours.
  • Our budget-friendly financing option lets you spread the cost out over up to 10 years.
  • We provide extended guarantees on Worcester Bosch boilers, giving you peace of mind for up to 12 years.
  • We also provide boiler servicing and emergency repairs, making us a complete one-stop-shop for all your boiler needs.
  • After installation, your first boiler service with us will be totally free!

Ready to get going? Get a quote for your boiler installation online or call us on 01202 355 344 today!