Heating your home efficiently and affordably is all about choosing right between a combi boiler vs system boiler. With energy prices still on the rise and the push towards more eco-friendly heating solutions, getting it right has never been more vital for UK homeowners looking to save on their bills and maintaining their lifestyle! Whether you’re replacing an existing boiler or installing a new heating system for the first time, understanding the combi boiler vs system boiler will allow you to make an informed choice that’s appropriate for your specific property.
Discover whether you’re eligible for government boiler grants and how much you can save with ECO Boiler Grants. Simply complete our quick1-minute eligibility form to begin.
Understanding Combi Boilers
A combi boiler, or combination boiler, is a small, self-contained heating system that offers central heating and instant hot water. Unlike conventional systems, combi boilers don’t need to use hot water cylinders and cold water tanks, which makes them perfect for properties where space is important. They also maintain the aesthetics of homes as they can easily be installed in kitchen cupboards.
Combi boilers start working when you switch on a hot tap, warming water directly from the mains supply using an internal heat exchanger. This creates instant hot water without the need for storage tanks. The boiler warms water for your central heating, which is pumped around your radiators through your thermostat controls.
Key Benefits of Combi Boilers
1. Space-Saving Design: Perfect for small-medium homes.
2. Energy Efficiency: New combi boilers have efficiency ratings of 90-99%, meaning that you only heat water that you actually use, and waste becomes a thing of the past while saving energy bills. ECO Boiler Grants only installs combi boilers from premium brands like Worcester Bosch, helping secure you with quality installations that last a long-time.
3. Instant Hot Water!
4. Cost-Effective Installation: As there are fewer components and less complex pipework, combi boiler fits are typically shorter and less expensive.
5. Benefits of Maintenance: Fewer system parts mean less maintenance requirements and less recurrent cost.
Disadvantages of Combi Boilers
1. Limited Flow Rate: A number of taps or showers operating simultaneously can lead to a marked reduction in water pressure, which makes them ill-suited for large families.
2. Mains Pressure Dependent: Efficiency relies almost entirely upon mains water pressure in your home, which can pose problems for properties in low-supply areas.
3. Not Recommended for High Demand: Larger families with multiple bathrooms may find combi boilers struggle to meet demand for hot water.
4. Solar Incompatibility: Although system boilers are poorly compatible with renewable technologies like solar thermal panels, combis are worse.
System Boiler?
A system boiler provides hot water and central heating by utilizing a hot water storage cylinder. System boilers heat water from the mains and store it in a hot water cylinder, typically in an airing cupboard. The stored hot water is immediately available when showers or taps are switched on. System boilers don’t require a cold water tank in the attic since they take water directly from the mains. The system can supply multiple outlets simultaneously without loss of pressure, so it’s ideal for busy homes.
Key Benefits of System Boilers
1. High Hot Water Capacity: Suitable for larger homes with many bathrooms, as the stored hot water is capable of supplying multiple points simultaneously without pressure loss.
2. Consistent Water Pressure: Since hot water is stored and delivered from a cylinder, you enjoy strong consistent pressure regardless of fluctuations in mains supply.
3. Solar Thermal Suitability: System boilers be easily integrated with renewable systems, which allows you to reduce your carbon footprint as well as your bills.
4. Backup Facilities: May be fitted with immersion heaters, providing hot water even in the event of boiler failure.
5. Suitable for Low Pressure Zones: Independent of high mains pressure, therefore ideal for areas where water supply is low.
Disadvantages of System Boilers
1. Space Requirements: Need additional space for hot water cylinder, which may be inconvenient for small homes.
2. Potential Heat Loss: Hot water stored in the cylinder will lose heat with time if the cylinder is poorly insulated, reducing overall efficiency.
3. Increased Upfront Costs: Complicated installation procedure with additional components could increase upfront costs.
4. Restricted by Cylinder Size: Once hot water is used, you’ll have to wait for the cylinder refill and reheat.
Still unsure which system is right for your home? Our expert team at ECO Boiler Grants can provide personalised advice based on your specific requirements. Check your eligibility for funding by filling in our simple form and get professional guidance today.
What Type of Boiler Should I Have in My Home?
Choose a Combi Boiler if:
- You live in a small to medium home.
- You have little space for additional equipment
- You want the lowest cost installation option
- You have enough mains water pressure
- You support greener options, higher energy efficiency and minimizing running costs
Choose a System Boiler if:
- You have a bigger house (3+ bedrooms) with more than multiple bathroom
- Your household heats hot water simultaneously frequently
- You have space for a hot water cylinder
- You are eager to include renewable energy systems
- Your premises experience low mains water pressure
- You want consistent hot water pressure across your property
Installation Costs and Considerations
Combi Boiler Installation Prices
- Unit Price: £650-£3,000
- Installation: £1,000-£2,000
- Average Total: £2,500-£4,000
System Boiler Installation Prices
- Boiler Unit: £700-£1,200
- Hot Water Cylinder: £500-£1,100
- Installation: £1,500-£2,500
- Average Total: £3,000-£5,500
Some of the key cost influences are that system to combi conversions may entail vast pipework while combi to combi replacements are generally more economical. Additional upgrades like radiators, controls and pipework will always influence the price, while location and accessibility can also add to the overall cost of installation.
Ready to Upgrade? ECO Boiler Grants Are Here to Assist
At ECO Boiler Grants, we understand that differences between combi boiler and system boiler choices can be overwhelming. Our approachable specialists provide free grant eligibility checks and professional advice on the best heating solution for your home. All our installations are carried out by Gas-Safe registered engineers. We only install the best quality material and systems from premium brands like Worcester Bosch, while providing you with long-term 10+ years of warranty for your peace of mind.
Complete our simple eligibility form today and discover how much money you can save with ECO Boiler Grants. Our helpful team is here to help you make the wise choice for the heating future of your property.
With energy costs still on the rise and government subsidies being offered for only as long as the funding will permit, there’s never a better chance to replace your heating system. Whether choosing a space-saving combi boiler or high-output system boiler, the right choice will provide you with years of hassle-free, cost-efficient warmth while reducing your carbon impact and energy costs.
Contact ECO Boiler Grants now and begin your journey towards a warmer, more efficient future-proof home.
