Boiler Installation Basildon

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Combination Boilers

A combi (combination) Boiler provides heating and hot water directly from the mains, which is heated instantly without needing a separate hot water storage tank or cylinder. Here are its key characteristics and the types of properties it’s best suited for:

• Space-Saving: Since combi boilers do not require a separate water tank or cylinder, they are ideal for homes with limited space, such as small houses, maisonettes, or flats.
• Efficiency: Combi boilers are known for their high efficiency. They heat water on demand, which means there is no need to heat and store a large volume of water and no wastage, which can save on energy bills.
• Water Pressure: They are dependent on the mains water pressure. If the property has good mains pressure, a combi boiler can provide a strong flow of hot water. However, the performance might be poor in areas with low water pressure.
• Suitability For Smaller Households: Combis are generally best suited for smaller households with one bathroom. This is because the water flow can be reduced if multiple outlets (like showers or taps) are used simultaneously.
• Instant Hot Water: They heat water directly from the mains, providing hot water instantly, which is convenient for users. There is no waiting for the water to heat up.
• No Cold Water Tank: Combi boilers do not require a cold water tank in the loft, which benefits properties with little or no loft space.

Combi boilers are perfect for smaller homes with limited space and households with low demand for hot water from multiple sources. They offer efficient heating and instant hot water but are less suitable for larger homes with multiple bathrooms.

System Boilers 

A System Boiler directly heats your radiators or underfloor heating and produces hot water for a storage cylinder. They work like regular boilers but with some key differences:

• Built-In Components: System boilers have many working heating and hot water components built into the Boiler, making it more efficient and easier to install than a regular boiler.
• Hot Water Storage Cylinder: Unlike combi boilers, system boilers include a separate hot water storage cylinder. This means they can provide a larger volume of hot water, suitable for homes with higher hot water needs.
• No Need for a Cold Water Tank: While they need a hot water cylinder, system boilers don’t require a cold water tank in the loft, as they take their water supply directly from the mains. This saves space and is useful in properties without a loft.
• Consistent Water Pressure: Since the hot water is stored in a pressurised cylinder, the water pressure tends to be more consistent than combi boilers, especially if multiple taps are used simultaneously.
• Suitability for Larger Homes: System boilers are typically best suited for medium to large-sized homes with multiple bathrooms. They efficiently meet the higher demand for hot water and heating.
• Energy Efficiency: They are generally more energy-efficient than regular boilers, as they don’t require as much energy to heat water on demand.

System boilers are ideal for homes with greater hot water needs, such as medium to large-sized homes with multiple bathrooms. They offer a good balance between space-saving and capacity and provide hot water at a consistent pressure.

Regular Boilers

Regular Boilers (also known as heat-only boilers) include a separate hot water cylinder (usually placed in a cupboard) and a cold water storage tank (usually located in the loft). Here’s how it works and what type of property it’s best suited for:

• Cold Water Tank: A regular boiler draws water from a cold water tank in the loft. This water is then heated and sent to radiators and the hot cylinder.
• Hot Water Cylinder: The heated water is stored in the hot water cylinder until needed. This means there’s a ready hot water supply, which benefits larger households.
• Suitability for Larger Homes: Heat-only boilers are generally best suited for larger homes with several bathrooms, with a high demand for hot water simultaneously. They can provide hot water to several taps simultaneously without a pressure drop.
• Compatibility with Older Systems: They are often a good choice for homes with older heating systems, as they are usually compatible with old pipework and radiator systems without significant modifications.
• Space Requirement: Regular boilers require more space than combi or system boilers because they require a cold water tank and a hot water cylinder. Therefore, they’re less suited for homes with limited space.
• Efficiency: Regular boilers are generally less efficient than a combi or system boilers.

Regular boilers are best for big homes with higher and simultaneous hot water demands. They require more space due to the additional cold water tank and hot water cylinder.

Boiler Sizes

All Combi, System, and Regular Boilers are available in multiple sizes. Boiler size, typically measured in kilowatts (kW), refers to the output capacity of the Boiler. The size of the Boiler you need depends on several factors, including the size of your home, the number of bathrooms, and your heating and hot water needs. Here are the general boiler sizes:

• 24-27 kW: These are suitable for small homes or apartments with one bathroom and up to 10 radiators. They provide adequate heating and hot water for lower demands.
• 28-34 kW: A good choice for medium-sized homes with 3-4 bedrooms, up to 2 bathrooms, and around 10-15 radiators. They can handle a higher demand for heating and hot water.
• 35-42 kW: These are designed for larger homes with more than 4 bedrooms, 2 or more bathrooms, and over 20 radiators. They can supply enough hot water for multiple bathrooms used simultaneously.

It’s important to choose the right size for efficient energy use and to ensure your home is comfortably heated with sufficient hot water. An undersized boiler won’t be able to meet the heating demands, while an oversized boiler will be less efficient and more costly to run. 

Fitting The Best Boiler For Your Home

We provide free, no-obligation surveys and quotes undertaken by one of our Gas Safe Registered engineers. A survey establishes the best type and size of Boiler for your home and budget.

When one of our engineers surveys to determine the best type of Boiler for your home, they’ll assess several factors.

Home Size & Layout

The engineer evaluates the size of your home, the number of rooms, and the layout. Larger homes with more rooms require a boiler with a higher output.

Number Of Bathrooms

The number of bathrooms affects hot water demand. Homes with multiple bathrooms might need a system or regular Boiler rather than a combi, especially if several taps are used simultaneously.

Existing Heating System

They examine your current heating system, including the type of Boiler, radiators, and pipework. The choice of a new boiler will be influenced by its compatibility with existing systems.

Water Pressure

The mains water pressure is checked. Combi boilers rely on good mains pressure, so a system or regular Boiler might be recommended if your home has low water pressure.

Hot Water Demand

They assess your household’s hot water usage patterns. For high demand simultaneously, a system or regular Boiler with a hot water cylinder may be required.

Energy Efficiency Goals

If reducing energy bills and increasing efficiency are priorities, the engineer might recommend a more efficient boiler type or model.

Space Availability 

The amount of available space for the Boiler and any additional components (like cylinders or tanks) is considered. Smaller properties might benefit more from a combi boiler.

Budget

The cost of the Boiler, installation, and running costs are discussed to find an option that fits your budget.

Future Plans

If you plan to extend your home or change your water usage, the engineer will factor this into their recommendation.

Considering these factors, our engineer will recommend the most appropriate boiler type and size for your home and specific needs. After the survey, you will receive a no-obligation quote.

Contact Us

Please contact us at 01268 350025 for a free, no-obligation Boiler Installation survey and quote.