What are the Different Types of Boilers?

There are combi boilers, heat-only boilers and system boilers… What is the difference between the different types of boilers?

What are the Different Types of Boilers?

A combination boiler is the most common type of boiler in the UK. They provide hot water on demand and are a great choice for most homes. But heat-only and system boilers are better suited than combi boilers for some situations and choosing the wrong one could lead to higher bills.

Combi boilers 

Pros of combi boilers

• a combi boiler system has almost all components inside the boiler itself, which makes it more compact
• there’s no need for a cold water feed or an expansion tank in the loft.
• You immediately get hot water on demand.

Cons of combi boilers

• the moving parts within the boiler means there is potential for things to go wrong
• a combi boiler system is better for homes with fewer people, as you can only use hot water for one task at a time.

Heat-only boilers 

Pros of heat-only boilers

• Heat-only boilers are better for larger households where people need to use hot water simultaneously.
• They require space for a cold water feed tank in the loft.

Cons of heat-only boilers

• They don’t give hot water on demand, so you have to wait for the water to heat up after the storage tank has run out of hot water.
• They are less efficient than combi boilers because you will lose heat over time from the storage cylinder.

System boilers

Pros of system boilers

• System boilers are greater for large homes where hot water is required at multiple taps at the same time.
• You don’t need a cold water tank in the loft

Cons of system boilers

• You need space for a hot water cylinder
• System boilers cost more to install than a combi boiler
• They are not as efficient as a combi boiler as you lose heat from the hot water cylinder.
• Once the hot water has run out, you need to wait for it to heat again.

L&W Heating and Plumbing

If you need a new boiler, then speak to one of our heating installers to discuss your requirements. We specialise in the installation of all types of boiler and central heating systems so call us today on a local number below for a free no-obligation quote.

Plumbers Wigan 01942 417220
Plumbers St Helens 01744 776140
Plumbers Newton Le Willows 01925 394260
Plumbers Warrington 01925 394260
Plumbers Runcorn 01925 394260
Plumbers Widnes 01925 394260