Which boiler will save me the most money?

When considering the cost of installing a new boiler it is also wise to take into account the cost savings, as a new boiler will also save money – the question is which boiler will save the most?

Homecure have compiled a list to help you decide which boiler is best for you.

Condensing boilers must be fitted by law due to their improved energy efficiency. According to reports a condensing boiler could save up to 1.7 tonnes of carbon dioxide per year and in some cases improve efficiency up to 90%.

Condensing boilers require less energy, by recycling usually wasted flue gases. This results in reduced carbon emissions and significantly lower fuel consumption.

There are three main types of condensing boilers that can be installed in homes – Combi, System and Regular, with some stark differences between them and who they will benefit best.

Which boiler at a glance

• Best for effectiveness                        Combi
• Best for space saving                         Combi
• Best for small properties                 Combi
• Best value                                               Combi
• Best for 3-bed plus                              System
• Best for multiple functions              System
• Best for water pressure                     System
• Fast response                                        System                       

Combi boilers

The combi boiler is the most popular choice in the UK – small, simple to install and combines two elements into one compact unit – central heating and high efficiency water heating.

These are perfect for small houses or flats, without multiple bathrooms; however, in larger properties the water pressure and volume is reduced, while water flow can be interrupted if multiple taps are on.

A plus for space saving this model also makes significant savings on hot water costs because hot water is delivered through taps and showers at mains pressure, which removes the need for a pump. No tank and no extra pipe work means further cost savings on installation.

Regular boilers

Regular boilers are mostly found in older homes that have not been updated in recent years. They were once the more popular boiler choice, heating the central heating system directly and producing hot water for the cylinder.

They have a lot more parts, so takes up more space, there are also more parts able to go wrong or require repair. A feed, expansion cistern and a cold water storage system will be placed in the loft.

Higher hot water flow rates are better with this type of boiler and multiple outlets can be used at once, however they are expensive to install and repair.

System boilers

A system boiler heats the central heating system directly and produces hot water from a cylinder, like a regular boiler, and works on the principle of stored hot water.

Many major individual components are built into the boiler, making the installation process easier, quicker, neater and more efficient. Installation is, however, expensive and space is needed for a cylinder.

The boiler has a fast response and more economical running costs than other types of boiler, due to the hot water being pumped through the heating system to the radiators, and from a hot water cylinder from the boiler. The high water pressure makes it good for larger houses with multiple outlets.

An experienced and qualified plumber will always be able to talk you through the pros and cons of boiler types and advise you on which boiler is best for your property when deciding to renew or replace one.