The decision of installing a new boiler is big. And there are many options. So how do you determine which boiler will work best for your home? Before you make this decision, consider your future and current heating and hotwater requirements. You need to think about how much hotwater you use, how large your property is, the fuel available, the size and type of boilers that are possible.
You might also want to take into account other factors, such energy efficiency and alternative energy sources. This quick guide will help to decide the right replacement boiler.
What are the main types of boilers?
Before we discuss the specifics of how to select a boiler depending on your heating needs, and the size your home is, it’s important that you understand what types of boilers are available.
Conventional boilers
A boiler that heats water can store it in hot water tanks. They keep it warm for hours before it is used again. Once your hot water tank runs out, you’ll need to wait to heat it up again and fill the tank with more.
These systems are ideal for homes with lots of bathrooms and radiators. Many people use this cupboard to store their tank as an airing cabinet.
Combi-boilers
The most popular type of boiler is the combination boiler, also known as combi boilers. They provide hot water from the mains directly without needing to be connected with a storage tank. A combi boiler is able to provide hot water at mainspressure, which allows you use a shower without the necessity of a separate pump.
Each component is contained within one unit. There is no need for separate hot water tanks, making these boilers great for properties with limited space.
The storage combi is a type that’s suitable for homes with more space. They are similar to a combi boiler, but they come with a hot tank like a conventional system. This hot water tank allows you to store extra hot water and use it later.
System boilers
System boilers are designed to supply hot water directly to your radiators and a storage container. This boiler works in a similar way to a combi boiler. All the components are stored in one unit making it easy for installation and servicing. These types of boilers are best for properties with more bathrooms than a combi or homes that require more hot-water than a combi.
How to choose the right boiler
Once you have been familiarized with the different types of boilers that are available, you need to consider which one would be best for your situation based on what you already have and how much space you have.
Space Available
Your home may have limitations that could affect the type and size of boiler you select. Many smaller homes have very limited storage space which can make it difficult to install a separate hotwater tank. A combi boiler might be a better choice than a traditional boiler.
Existing system
It is important to consider whether or not you want to keep the current system. Although it is better to keep the existing system, cost- and practicality-wise, there are occasions when switching to a new system might be more beneficial. This is likely to be more true for older homes. Newer homes will typically have the best system. You should also keep in mind that different systems require different amounts and might not always work.
Hot water
Your hot water usage will also affect the choice of boiler. A combi boiler is more suitable for situations where there will be hot water demand at multiple outlets.
The right size boiler
Once you’ve chosen a type of boiler, it is essential to ensure that the boiler can heat and water your home. For example, a two-bedroom terraced home will require a smaller boiler that a five bedroom detached house.
Hot water demand
Consider how much hot water your family will use. The needs of a young family will increase with the aging of their children.
A 24-30 kW boiler would be recommended for most households with only one bathroom and shower. If there is an additional bathroom with a shower, it might be worth investing in a larger 30-35kW boiler.
However, system boilers that store hot water in a storage container may be more useful if there are multiple bathrooms. A system boiler preheats and stores hot water in a cylindrical. The output can be scaled to suit your home’s heating needs.
Size of property
Your boiler will be your main source of heating and hot water. You need a boiler that can provide enough heat output to heat your whole home. A domestic boiler size is measured by heat output. These typically range from 5 to 35kW.
It is important to avoid installing large boilers for both system and conventional boilers. This will not only increase your energy costs but also waste gas and electricity.
Combi boilers are usually sized according to the hot water requirement. A qualified heating technician will determine this for you before making any final recommendations or fitting.
Heat loss
You don’t need a boiler or heating system that produces most of your heat. This not only makes energy waste, but can also result in unexpectedly high bills from your supplier.
You can calculate the heat loss in your property using a calculation. It takes into account the space of the room, how many radiators are installed, how many doors and windows you have, and the quality and quantity of insulation in the home. An expert will be able to calculate how much heat the house will lose on the coldest of days. Then, they can use that information to help determine the optimal boiler size.
To reduce heat loss, your boiler shouldn’t be oversized. In the past, it was common to buy a larger boiler than was necessary. With technology advancements, this is no more necessary. You will be left with wasted energy and a bill.
Are you looking for a gas boiler replacement?
The right fuel type
Most homes have electricity or gas mains supplies, so running appliances with these fuels should not be difficult. For those living in more remote areas, or who don’t have gas access, a gas boiler might not be an option. Oil boilers should also be considered.
You might even consider green energy sources. However, this will have an effect on your boiler and heating system choices.
Mains gas
Mains gas is most commonly used in the UK. The majority of UK homes have already been connected. Gas boilers provide a steady supply of energy and are considered the best choice for non-renewable sources.
Oil
For properties that aren’t connected to the gas grid, oil is the best alternative. It is currently used in approximately 4.3million UK households. Oil boilers require more space than gas combis. They are also non-condensing so they may need to be floor-standing. They also have a lower rate of hot water flow.
Biomass and alternative energy
Last but not least, you should consider biomass and other alternative energy. If you have sufficient storage space, and you are able to burn fuels that use a flue to power your system, you might consider a biomass boiler. These boilers are powered from a renewable fuel source, making them more eco-friendly.
They are often powered by wood chips, logs, wood pellets, or chip fuel. This can help protect the environment and reduce your energy costs. Alternative energy sources for your boiler are fuel cell technology, ground source heat and air source heat. These are becoming increasingly popular.
Future energy sources
You might also want to check if your boiler was built with future energy sources as a consideration. Modern gas boilers can be made compatible with solar energy. While oil systems can be modified to run partially on biooil mixtures, this will make them more future-proof and eco-friendly.
Which boiler would be best for my house
We’ve covered the various types of boiler, how they work and how to select the right size for your home. Below you’ll find additional examples that are specific to your home.
What is the best boiler choice for a semi with three beds?
Semi-detached buildings tend to retain heat better than detached ones. Because you are attached to your neighbour on the one side of your house, heat cannot escape through these external walls. Insulating your own home with heat from the neighbor’s house will reduce heat loss.
We recommend installing a storage combi boiler in a three-bedroom semi that has one main bathroom. These systems not only heat water but can also store hot water in an integrated tank. This allows you to save space by not needing a separate storage tank.
What is the best boiler to use in a house of four bedrooms?
A traditional boiler may be the best choice if you have four bedrooms, multiple bathrooms, and family members who want to use the showers simultaneously. These boilers can meet the heating needs of large houses with lots of radiators.
What is the best boiler to use for a house with three beds?
A compact combi boiler would be ideal for a three-bedroom terraced property. It can fit in a standard unit kitchen or other similar storage space. It is ideal for those who don’t have lots of storage space.
