There are three main types of boilers: Combination, System and Open Vent.
Combination Boilers
Combination boilers (combi boilers) are the most popular boiler that's fitted in the UK right now. Combination boilers are units that take away the need for a hot water tank, and so save space in the house as no airing cupboard is required and no space is adopted in the loft. Because the name suggests, combination boilers combine two functions - not merely do they provide hot water to a property, in addition they act as a central heating boilers. Combination boilers run 'on demand' this means they provide instant warm water when required.
Pros of combination boilers:
- Space saving.
- Saves money since there is no hot water tank which must be constantly heated to help keep the water hot.
- Water received through taps and 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 given by combination boilers is 'on demand' at mains pressure, if several outlets are opened as well (taps/showers/washing machines) the pressure can be reduced depending on how powerful the boiler is.
System Boilers
System boilers (sealed system boilers) comprise of a sealed unit that usually runs at about 1 bar of pressure. System boilers require a water storage cylinder to store the hot water for the property, which is more often than not 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 the same pressure, to several outlets simultaneously.
- No dependence 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 correct 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 house. One of these brilliant tanks is really a small 'feed and expansion' tank which is used to provide water to the boiler and radiators, the other 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 used in properties where there are many outlets (taps etc.) that may be used as well.
- Relatively inexpensive to replace.
Cons of open vent boilers:
- Low water pressure.
- If the hot water cylinder empties you may have to wait some time for it to re-fill and warm up.
- Takes up lots of space compared to other boilers.
As you can see there are benefits and drawbacks for each type of boiler, should you be still unsure concerning which boiler will best suit your needs, most good boiler installers will advise as per the list below:
If you have a set or bungalow without 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 a preexisting conventional boiler to high efficiency - System, Open vented or Combi.
If there are Visit this link of people in your premises requiring warm water on demand - Combi or System boiler with a hot water cylinder.
If your property is a loft conversion - Combi.
When purchasing boilers for installation in the home, or in the workplace, it is usually advisable to get hold of an installer who has all of the relevant qualifications to perform the work accurately and safely. A reputable installer of boilers may also offer you the very best advice concerning which system will suit the needs you have. Do not try to use a boiler system yourself if you don't are fully qualified.