There are three main types of boilers: Combination, System and Open Vent.
Combination Boilers
Combination boilers (combi boilers) are the most popular boiler that is fitted in the united kingdom right now. Combination boilers are units that get rid of the need for a hot water tank, therefore save space in the house as no airing cupboard is required and no space is taken up in the loft. Because the name suggests, combination boilers combine two functions - not merely do they provide warm water to a property, in addition they act as a central heating boilers. Combination boilers run 'on demand' this means they provide instant hot water when required.
Pros of combination boilers:
- Space saving.
- Saves money because there is no warm water tank which needs to be constantly heated to help keep the water hot.
- Water received through taps along with other outlets is at mains pressure
- Less pipe work is required when installing so installation is generally quicker.
Cons of combination boilers:
- As the water supplied by combination boilers is 'on demand' at mains pressure, if several outlets are opened at the same time (taps/showers/washing machines) the pressure could be reduced depending on how powerful the boiler is.
System Boilers
System boilers (sealed system boilers) include a sealed unit that always runs at about 1 bar of pressure. System boilers need a water storage cylinder to store the warm water for the property, which is generally installed in an airing cupboard.
Pros of system boilers:
- Good for homes with an increase of than one bathroom because the type of boiler system can deliver hot water, at exactly the same pressure, to many outlets simultaneously.
- Extra resources|Find more info on an expansion tank in the loft this provides you with you more storage space in the attic.
- High water pressure.
Cons of system boilers:
- Can be expensive to repair and install.
- Airing cupboard is required.
Open Vent Boilers
Open vent boilers are usually linked to two tanks housed in the loft space of a property. One of these brilliant tanks is a small 'feed and expansion' tank which is used to supply water to the boiler and radiators, another is a larger cool water storage tank which provides the water required for an open vented hot water cylinder.
Pros of open vent boilers:
- Mainly utilized in properties where there are many outlets (taps etc.) that could be used concurrently.
- Relatively cheap to replace.
Cons of open vent boilers:
- Low water pressure.
- If the warm water cylinder empties you could have to wait some time for this to re-fill and then warm up.
- Takes up many space compared to other boilers.
As you can plainly see there are pros and cons for each kind of boiler, should you be still unsure as to which boiler will best work for you, most good boiler installers will advise according to the list below:
If you have a flat or bungalow with no roof space - Combi Boiler.
If your premises has 2 or even more bathrooms - System or Open Vented.
If you are within an area with low mains water pressure - System or Open Vented.
If you are seeking to upgrade an existing conventional boiler to high efficiency - System, Open vented or Combi.
If there are lots of people in your property requiring warm water on demand - Combi or System boiler with a hot water cylinder.
If your property is really a loft conversion - Combi.
When purchasing boilers for installation in the home, or at work, it will always be advisable to contact an installer who has each of the relevant qualifications to perform the work accurately and safely. An established installer of boilers may also offer you the very best advice as to which system will suit your requirements. Do not try to install a boiler system yourself if you don't are fully qualified.