With so much being made about the cost-of-living crisis by the media, many of us are starting to
rethink how we heat our homes. While over two-thirds of homes still use gas boilers to heat their
homes, there are several options to consider, and they could end up saving you a small fortune in
the long run. However, not every heating system is going to be right for every home.
Combi Boilers: Modern Efficiency
Combi Boilers, short for combination boilers, are a modern and incredibly practical solution for
heating and hot water needs. Combi boilers operate by instantly heating water from the mains on
demand, eliminating the need for a separate hot water tank and keeping installation relatively
straightforward. This feature not only saves space but also improves energy efficiency as it reduces
heat loss from stored water.
Traditional Boiler Systems: The Old Guard
Traditional boilers, on the other hand, work with a separate hot water cylinder and often require
additional cold water storage tanks to function. While they can be ideal for larger households with
high water usage, they take up a lot more space and can be less efficient due to heat loss from the
water tank. They might, however, still be the most practical solution for incredibly large households
with more than 5 bedrooms.
Efficiency Comparison
When it comes to energy consumption and waste, Combi Boilers generally have the upper hand as
they are designed to be energy-efficient and reduce energy bills. By eliminating the need for a hot
water tank, they save significant space, making them ideal for smaller homes or apartments.
Combi Boilers have fewer components than traditional boilers, which can really simplify
installation and maintenance. However, the complexity can vary based on the existing system and
the specific model chosen. As far as cost is concerned, however, the initial cost of installing a
combi boiler might be higher than a traditional system but the long-term savings will be substantial.
Tankless Water Heaters: Instant Hot Water Supply
Tankless water heaters, like combi boilers, provide hot water on demand. They are efficient and
compact, but their capacity to supply consistent hot water to multiple outlets simultaneously can be
limited. Both combi boilers and tankless water heaters are more compact than traditional systems.
The choice between them often comes down to the specific needs for hot water supply and the
layout of the property.
Conclusion
Combi boilers are particularly well-suited for smaller homes or properties where space is at a
premium and should be the first choice for those who might lack the space or funds to install an air
source heat pump. If you’re on the fence about going the heat pump route but still want to do your
part for the environment while also cutting down on your heating bills, a combi boiler is the most
sensible option.