What is a Combi Boiler?
Combi boilers are the most recognized boilers in the UK with a lot of homeowners switching from the old traditional or conventional systems. They come in different ratings and a range of sizes, making it ‘doable’ to be used in homes with compact spaces.
It’s called a Combi Boiler because it serves two functions – an efficient water heater and a central heating boiler in a compact unit. And since it can serve as a water heater, there’s no need to spend extra bucks getting a separate hot water cylinder or a cold-water storage tank.
The logic behind their ability to provide energy-efficient domestic hot water is logical; since they have high operating power and a relatively low internal water volume. The effect of this is, in the summer, for example, you can heat just the amount of water you need for a shower. Thereby reducing your energy bills ultimately.
An added advantage is that they are more compact than other heating systems, especially the modern types. Hence, they fit perfectly in homes with limited space or for small families.
How Does a Combi Boiler Work?
Combi boilers have one compact unit that provides you with a water heater (hot water) as well as radiators. So, you do not need to get a separate hot water cylinder or a cold-water storage tank. They are always on standby when not in use. However, can supply you with hot water within minutes of command.
Combi boilers have internal control valves that operate in directions that allow water flow through the central system or through the appropriate hot water tap as operated. While this makes sense, keep in mind that you can never have water flow in both directions at the same time.
An exceptional feature about them is the ability to store any surplus heat in a heat exchanger that can be used later to supply hot water for taps.
Choosing the Right Combi Boiler
Does Size matter for me?
Deciding the size of combi boiler that will be appropriate for your needs will depend on certain factors, such as the size of your home. A small home will mean a small-sized combi boiler and a large home will equally mean a large-sized combi boiler.
Generally, for an average 3-4-bedroom home without including the bathrooms, a 20-35kW combi boiler will work perfectly. Including the bathrooms, size may be increased to 30-35kW. For homes with more than 4 rooms, a larger-sized combi boiler between 35-42kW may be worth a consideration.
However, a combi boiler may not be appropriate if you have a large home due to an increased demand for hot water.
Price
Another factor that will influence your decision is the price of a combi boiler. You may not need to spend on installation as it can be easy to setup. However, getting a Gas Safe licensed engineer in the UK like AcrabTree remains the best option, especially for safety reasons. Usually, the upfront cost of installing a combi boiler is at a very competitive rate.
Performance
Just as combi boilers come in different sizes, they also come in different performance levels too depending on the home they are serving. Small homes will require smaller units and output since the demands on the boiler will be less. On the other hand, large homes will demand one with a larger output – of course, higher demands.
Top 4 Benefits of Combi Boilers
In addition to coming in compact sizes and fitting perfectly for smaller spaces, combi boilers can also be beneficial in the following ways:
- Cost-Effectiveness
As we already discussed, this will depend entirely on your lifestyle and family. However, when compared to traditional or conventional models, you could up a lot of bucks with combi boilers, especially the modern models.
- Saves time – as you can have your hot water almost immediately.
- They provide saver mediums.
- Cheaper than traditional models.
You may want to talk to an expert if you’re still unsure whether a combi boiler is a good choice for you or not. We can provide answers to all your queries.
Ecotherm offers a range of Combi Boilers services ranging from installation and recommendations on what will fit your needs best. If you need assistance, we should be the one you call.