Category: Boilers

Combi Boiler Versus Gas Boiler

Combi boiler vs. standard gas boiler – how to choose the right heating system for your home

When it comes to choosing a boiler, the decision between getting a combi boiler installation and a standard gas boiler replacement can significantly impact your home’s heating efficiency, comfort and energy bills. Both systems have their advantages and are suited for different types of homes, but how do you decide which one is right for you?

At Kingsbury Heating, we understand that this choice can feel overwhelming, so we have tried to make it easier for you and broken down the key factors to consider when deciding between a combi boiler and a standard gas boiler.

Boiler installation

What is a combi boiler?

A combination (combi) boiler is an all-in-one system that provides both heating and hot water directly from the boiler. Unlike traditional systems, a combi boiler does not require a separate hot water cylinder or cold water storage tank. This makes it a compact solution, ideal for smaller homes or properties with limited space.

What is a standard gas boiler?

A standard gas boiler, also known as a conventional or heat-only boiler, works with a separate hot water cylinder, and sometimes a cold water storage tank (in the loft). This system heats water and stores it in the cylinder, providing ample hot water for larger homes with multiple bathrooms, or where there is a higher demand for hot water.

Key factors to consider

 

Your home size and hot water demand

  • If you live in a small to medium-sized property with one or two bathrooms, a combi boiler could be the best choice. Since combi boilers heat water on demand, you do not have to worry about running out of hot water.
  • For larger properties with multiple bathrooms or high simultaneous hot water usage (such as running multiple showers at once), a standard gas boiler might be more appropriate. The hot water cylinder in a conventional system can store enough hot water to meet higher demands.

Space considerations

  • A combi boiler does not require a separate hot water cylinder or a cold water storage tank, making it perfect for homes where space is at a premium. Everything is integrated within the boiler unit itself, and the combi boiler is usually mounted on a wall.
  • If space is not an issue, a standard boiler system can be easily accommodated. You will need room for the hot water cylinder, which is typically housed in an airing cupboard and also space potentially for a loft-mounted cold water tank as well.

Energy Efficiency

  • Combi boilers are generally more energy-efficient than standard boilers because they do not heat and store hot water unnecessarily. They only produce hot water when you need it, helping to reduce energy waste.
  • Although modern standard gas boilers can also be energy-efficient, they can lose heat from the hot water cylinder over time. However, some homes benefit from a large hot water store for solar thermal or renewable energy integration, making the conventional system a better choice.

Cost of installation and maintenance

  • Combi boilers are typically cheaper and quicker to install because they do not require additional components like a cylinder or tank. If you are looking to keep upfront costs down, a combi boiler might be your best bet.
  • Standard boilers require more parts (like a hot water cylinder and tanks), so the installation costs can be higher. However, this type of system could save you money in the long run if your home has high water demand and would benefit from more consistent water pressure.

Water Pressure

  • Combi boilers are reliant on mains water pressure, so if your home has good water pressure, a combi boiler will provide a strong, reliable flow of hot water.
  • If your home is in an area with lower mains water pressure, a conventional boiler system may be more suitable because it can use gravity-fed systems or pumps to enhance water flow.

We can help you to make your decision

Choosing between a combi boiler and a standard gas boiler ultimately depends on your home’s size, water usage habits and the space you have available. If you are unsure, our team at Kingsbury Heating is here to help. We offer expert advice and professional installation services, ensuring you select the right system to keep your home warm and your energy bills low.

Contact Kingsbury Heating today for a boiler installation quote. We are committed to providing expert heating solutions tailored to your needs.

Guide to Domestic Gas Boilers

At Kingsbury Heating, our gas boiler engineers offer expert advice and installation services for all types of domestic gas boilers. Whether you are looking to upgrade your current system or are unsure which type is right for your home, our experienced team is here to help. Contact us today for a consultation and let us guide you through the process of finding the perfect gas boiler for your home.

There are various types of domestic gas boilers available, each suited to different household needs, energy efficiency goals and budgets. We understand that selecting the right boiler is critical to your home’s comfort and efficiency. In this guide, we will break down the main types of boilers, outlining their advantages and disadvantages to help you make an informed decision.

Gas boiler being serviced

Combi Boilers

Combi boilers are one of the most popular choices. These boilers serve as both a central heating unit and a water heater in one compact system. They do not require a separate water tank, as they heat water directly from the mains when needed.

Advantages

  • Space-saving, as there is no need for a hot water cylinder or cold water storage tank.
  • Energy efficient, because they only heat water when needed, reducing energy wastage.
  • Endless hot water, since they heat water on demand, you never run out of hot water.
  • Lower installation costs, as the absence of additional tanks or cylinders reduces installation complexity.

Disadvantages

  • Limited water flow, sometimes, if multiple taps or showers are used simultaneously, the water pressure can drop.
  • Not suitable for larger homes, because the increased hot water useage may struggle with a combi boiler, especially when several bathrooms are in use at once.

System Boilers

System boilers are ideal for homes with higher hot water demand. They operate by heating water and storing it in a hot water cylinder. Unlike conventional boilers, system boilers do not require a cold water storage tank, making them more space-efficient while still offering a good supply of hot water.

Advantages

  • Good for larger homes, as system boilers can provide hot water to multiple outlets at the same time without affecting pressure.
  • Highly efficient modern system boilers, especially when paired with a well-insulated hot water cylinder.
  • No cold water tank saves space and avoids the potential of the water tank freezing in loft areas during cold months.

Disadvantages

  • Requires a hot water cylinder, although it saves space compared to a conventional boiler.
  • Hot water is not instant, because once the stored hot water is used up, you need to wait for the cylinder to refill and reheat, which can take time.
gas boiler installation

Conventional Boilers

Conventional boilers, also known as regular or heat-only boilers, are the traditional option. They consist of both a hot water cylinder and a cold water storage tank (usually located in the loft). These boilers are typically found in older homes and are designed to handle large amounts of water usage.

 Advantages

  • Perfect for homes with old radiator systems, as conventional boilers work well with older radiators that may not cope with the high pressure of a combi or system boiler.
  • Ideal for large homes because they can supply hot water to multiple bathrooms and taps simultaneously.
  • Work with solar water heating, a conventional system can be combined with solar heating system to reduce energy costs.

Disadvantages

  • Take up more space because you need room for both a hot water cylinder and a cold water tank.
  • Longer installation process, as conventional systems are more complex to install than combi or system boilers, potentially leading to higher installation costs.
  • Energy wastage, since water is heated and stored in the cylinder, there is the potential for heat loss if the water is not used immediately.
Central heating engineers

Condensing Boilers

Condensing boilers are not a type of boiler on their own but rather a technology that can be applied to combi, system, or conventional boilers. The key feature of condensing boilers is their ability to capture and recycle heat that would otherwise be lost through the flue, making them highly energy-efficient.

 Advantages

  • Energy efficient, as they can be up to 90% efficient, which helps reduce your energy bills.
  • Environmentally friendly as they have lower carbon emissions compared to non-condensing boilers.
  • Compatible with all boiler types, whether you have a combi, system, or conventional boiler, a condensing model can be fitted.

Disadvantages

  • Condensate pipe is required to drain away the condensate produced during operation, which can freeze in very cold weather if not properly insulated.

Need help choosing a gas boiler?

Contact Kingsbury Heating today to discuss your options with one of our experienced gas boiler engineers. Our professional team is ready to help you make the best choice for your home and ensure efficient, long-lasting comfort. Answer a few simple questions for an instant, no-obligation quote.

Please get in touch to find out how we can help with your gas boiler installation, replacement, repair or service.