What Are the Different Types of Boilers Available?
There are three main types of boilers: Combination, System and Open Vent.
Combination Boilers
Combination boilers (combi boilers) are the most popular boiler that is fitted in the UK right now. Combination boilers are units that get rid of the need for a hot water tank, therefore save space in the house as no airing cupboard is necessary no space is taken up in the loft. Because the name suggests, combination boilers combine two functions - not only do they provide warm water to a property, in addition they act as a central heating boilers. Combination boilers run 'on demand' this means they provide instant hot water when required.
Pros of combination boilers:
- Space saving.
- Saves money since there is no warm water tank which should be constantly heated to keep the water hot.
- Water received through taps along with other outlets is at mains pressure
- Less pipe work is necessary when installing so installation is generally quicker.
Cons of combination boilers:
- As the water given by combination boilers is 'on demand' at mains pressure, if several outlets are opened concurrently (taps/showers/washing machines) the pressure could be reduced depending 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 need a water storage cylinder to store the hot water for the property, which is more often than not installed in an airing cupboard.
Pros of system boilers:
- Good for homes with more than one bathroom because the kind of boiler system can deliver hot water, at exactly the same pressure, to several 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.
Open Vent Boilers
Open vent boilers are usually connected to two tanks housed in the loft space of a house. One of these tanks is really a small 'feed and expansion' tank which is used to supply water to the boiler and radiators, another is a larger cold water storage tank which gives the water required for an open vented warm water cylinder.
Pros of open vent boilers:
- Mainly used in properties where there are several outlets (taps etc.) which may be used concurrently.
- Relatively inexpensive to replace.
Cons of open vent boilers:
- Low water pressure.
- If the hot water cylinder empties you might have to wait a while for it to re-fill and warm up.
- Takes up many space in comparison to other boilers.
As you can see there are advantages and disadvantages for each kind of boiler, for anyone who is still unsure concerning which boiler will best work for you, most good boiler installers will advise according to the list below:
If you have a set or bungalow with no roof space - Combi Boiler.
If your premises has 2 or even 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 many people in your property requiring warm water on demand - Combi or System boiler with a warm water cylinder.
If your property is a loft conversion - Combi.
When purchasing boilers for installation at home, or at work, it is usually advisable to get hold of an installer who has each of the relevant qualifications to complete the job accurately and safely. Visit this page of boilers will also offer you the best advice as to which system will suit the needs you have. Do not try to use a boiler system yourself unless you are fully qualified.