If you have an old conventional boiler you may be wondering whether you should upgrade to a new combi boiler or stick with the type of boiler you currently have. Our guide aims to help you decide whether a new combi boiler is right for you.
Should I get a combi or conventional boiler?
A conventional boiler is generally a good choice for homes that have higher hot-water demands, as they have the potential to supply hot water to multiple taps at once.
They also require an additional hot-water tank and cold-water cylinder which, whilst this may help them supply water, these extra components could be a hindrance to homes with limited space.
The fact that water is stored may also mean that you are limited to the amount of water available in the tank/cylinder; you may also have to wait for the water to heat up before you can use it.
If you feel that your home could benefit from a more compact, multi-functional system, a combi boiler could be a suitable option for you.
Why swap to a combi boiler?
There are a number of reasons why more and more homeowners are deciding to replace their current conventional heating system with a combi boiler. From its compact dimensions to its on-demand supply of hot water. If you currently have a conventional boiler, a combi boiler could prove to be a more convenient and energy-efficient choice.
Here’s a list of some of the advantages of installing a combi boiler in your home:
- Space saving – could be fitted into a standard kitchen cupboard
- No need for additional components
- On-demand hot-water
- Energy-efficient and economical – Water is heated directly from the mains so only water you use could be heated. Combi boilers are also condensing, so they have the potential to recover energy that may have otherwise been wasted. You could therefore save money on your energy bills by reducing your energy wastage*.
Although combi boilers have a range of advantages, they are not suitable for all homes. For instance, larger homes with high hot water demands and multiple bathrooms may be better off with a modern conventional or system boiler.
We recommend that you seek the advice of a qualified engineer who could help you decide if swapping is the best choice for you.
How much could it cost to get a combi boiler installed?
The cost of getting a new combi boiler installed can vary from home to home. Prices tend to be reliant on the brand, model and output of the boiler chosen. The complexity of the installation process also typically impacts the overall price, so homeowners swapping from a conventional boiler to a combi could expect to pay more fees due to the additional workmanship that may be required.
When should I get a combi boiler installed?
The ideal time to get a new boiler installed is generally subjective to your home and your schedule. If your current system has broken down and is beyond economical repair, a quick installation is usually required.
However, if you’re simply looking to upgrade or if your boiler is over the age of 10, you could arrange a time that’s suitable for you. We often recommend for homeowners to book a boiler installation in the summer, as there may be a shorter waiting time and you’re likely to be less inconvenienced by the loss of heating during the installation process as the weather may not be as cold. By getting your boiler installed in the summer you could avoid the winter rush and get your home ready for the cold snap.
Get a new combi boiler from BOXT
Looking to replace your conventional boiler with a combi?
We’re working together with BOXT, one of the largest boiler installation companies in the UK, to help you find the best boiler for your home.
BOXT makes choosing the perfect new boiler for your home easy with a fixed price quote on your screen in just 90 seconds.
*Based on October 2023 Energy Savings Trust research on the average saving found in a detached house in England, Scotland and Wales when replacing an old gas boiler with a new A-rated condensing boiler with a programmer, room thermostat and thermostatic radiator controls. For more information visit energysavingtrust.org.uk/advice/boilers/