Combination boilers (also known as combi boilers) have become a nationwide phenomenon, with over 70% of UK homes choosing to switch over the past few years. Not only have people been switching from regular hot water or system boilers, but it is also now thought that this will be the go-to for first-time buyers and recommended when upgrading or replacing an old system. Whilst the statistics are staggering and many locals are investing in new combi boilers in Bristol, you may still have reservations about what it is and how this can benefit your home. Here we have put together a guide to the latest industry innovation to help you decide whether the switch from old to new is worth it.
What is a combi boiler?
Combi boilers are known for their cost efficiency as well as space saving qualities. In short, they are highly effective water heater and central heating units. This means they can both heat your home and provide hot water all from the same place, eliminating the need for a separate water tank. By combining two essential household functions into one, homes save on repairs, monthly running costs and replacements, not to mention restoring space in the property you have previously only dreamt of.
Who can benefit from a combi boiler?
Whilst these versatile appliances will work in any household and bring savings and efficiency to all, smaller homes will directly benefit from the saved space. However, this new machine isn’t only known for its compact exterior. With the ability to heat water on demand, couples and small families rely on the instant nature of the combi boiler. This is especially valued when busy and unpredictable schedules get in the way of planning a bathroom routine to allow time for traditional boilers to heat up.
Should I invest in making the change?
With all the advantages displayed so widely across the industry, it can be difficult to weigh up the pros and cons and decide whether the shift is worth it. There are several excellent features associated with this style of the boiler, and they have by far become the most popular option in the UK. Across the board, just a few of the most sought-after requirements and biggest advantages are:
- More efficient when compared to more traditional models. It’s proven that upgrading your old system to a new combi boiler could save you up to £300 a year!
- Faster results. With no water tank to heat up, you can enjoy an unlimited supply of hot water on demand.
- Space saver. As outlined above, combing both your water heater and central heating unit to heat water as and when you use it can allow you to reclaim space in your home that you’ve not had the luxury of utilising before.
- Updated safety benefits. With water being fed directly from the mains, this ensures that the cold water provided by this boiler is always clean and safe to ingest.
- Cleaner and easier to maintain. Due to the direct source of water, combi boilers have less sludge build-up and therefore require less maintenance. By avoiding the need to store water in a tank where it can accumulate dust and debris, it won’t require many repairs, and when it does, qualified engineers are easy to come by due to the extensive popularity.As with anything, despite all the reasons this solution may be great, there will always be disadvantages to consider. Despite the popularity of combi boilers, traditional counterparts can sometimes be better suited to certain households. Before investing, it’s important to be aware of the several issues that come with upgrading.
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- Dependence on mains pressure. If you live in an area with poor mains pressure, this could limit the effectiveness of a combi boiler, therefore being counterproductive.
- Not ideal for a large family. Whilst the instant nature of this service is perfect for those who need it on demand, the fact that you would be limited to running only one bath or shower at a time could put some families off switching to this modern installment.
- No fall-back option. With older boilers, there is an immersion heater which allows you to continue to use hot water should your boiler breakdown. With this compact, tank free option, if your boiler breaks down you would be left without hot water as well as central heating. However, as concerning as this sounds, it’s important to note that new research and technology involved makes this a much more sustainable option, with boilers rarely breaking down at all.
- Water pressure relies solely on that at the mains source. When installing a combi boiler, you’re unable to pair it with a power shower as it uses the pressure level at the water mains. To avoid disappointment, be sure to check this prior to installation.
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Here at L & P Heating Services Ltd, we are here to help you with all your boiler and maintenance needs. Whether it’s figuring out what style of boiler would best suit you and your lifestyle, or emergency repairs and advice, we’re here to help. Through our expertise and 20+ years of experience, we have supported a vast number of families within the Bristol area. Our friendly staff are always happy to assist and advise on your every query, so feel free to get in touch if you’re considering upgrading the nation’s favourite boiler style.
Lee Gibbs
Managing Director
L & P Heating Services
27 Eastnor Road
Whitchurch
Bristol
BS14 0JD
01275 400 687
07886 732596
