If you’re considering upgrading your heating system, you may be wondering whether a combi boiler is the right choice for your home. Combi (or combination) boilers have become increasingly popular across the UK, thanks to their efficiency, compact size, and ability to provide instant hot water without the need for a separate water tank. But are they the right fit for everyone?
At Cotswold Plumbers, we specialise in new boiler installations and boiler replacements, helping homeowners find the perfect heating solution. In this guide, we’ll explore the pros and cons of converting to a combi boiler, so you can make an informed decision.
What Is a Combi Boiler?
A combi boiler is a high-efficiency system that heats water directly from the mains supply when needed. Unlike traditional boilers, which require a separate hot water cylinder and cold-water storage tank, combi boilers provide hot water on demand. This makes them an excellent space-saving option for modern homes.
Benefits of Switching to a Combi Boiler
1. Energy Efficiency & Lower Bills
Combi boilers are known for their high energy efficiency. Because they only heat water when you need it, they reduce wasted energy, potentially lowering your gas bills. Many modern combi boilers also come with advanced controls, allowing you to optimise heating settings and further reduce energy consumption.
2. Space-Saving Design
If you have a traditional system with a water tank in the loft and a hot water cylinder in an airing cupboard, switching to a combi boiler can free up valuable space. A combi boiler is compact and wall-mounted, making it ideal for smaller homes and flats.
3. Unlimited Hot Water
One of the biggest advantages of a combi boiler is that it provides instant hot water. Unlike conventional systems that rely on a stored hot water supply, combi boilers heat water as it flows through the system, ensuring you never run out.
4. Faster Installation & Lower Maintenance
Since combi boilers have fewer components than traditional systems, installation is often quicker and more cost-effective. There’s also less pipework, which means fewer potential leaks and lower maintenance costs in the long run.
5. Improved Water Pressure
Combi boilers take water directly from the mains, so they can provide better water pressure compared to gravity-fed systems, especially in homes with good mains pressure. This means stronger showers and quicker filling of baths and sinks.
When a Combi Boiler Might Not Be Ideal
While combi boilers offer many benefits, they might not be the best choice for every home. Here are some situations where another type of boiler might be more suitable:
1. Homes with High Hot Water Demand
If your home has multiple bathrooms and frequently requires hot water in different locations at the same time, a combi boiler may struggle to meet demand. System or conventional boilers, which store hot water, may be a better option for larger households.
2. Weak Mains Water Pressure
Since combi boilers rely on mains water pressure, they may not perform well in areas with low water pressure. If your home has weak pressure, installing a booster pump or opting for a system boiler with a storage tank may be a better solution.
3. Older Heating Systems
If your home has an older central heating system with large radiators and pipework designed for low-pressure operation, a combi boiler conversion may require additional modifications. This can increase installation costs.
Things to Consider Before Converting to a Combi Boiler
If you’re thinking about replacing your existing system with a combi boiler, here are some key factors to keep in mind:
- The size of your home – Combi boilers are best suited for smaller to medium-sized homes with one or two bathrooms.
- Your household’s hot water usage – If multiple people often use hot water at the same time, you may need to assess whether a combi boiler is sufficient.
- Existing pipework – Older properties with outdated pipework may require upgrades to handle the higher water pressure from a combi system.
- Gas supply capacity – Combi boilers require a strong gas supply, so your system may need an upgrade if switching from an older conventional boiler.
How Cotswold Plumbers Can Help
At Cotswold Plumbers, we offer expert advice and professional boiler installation services to help you choose the best system for your home. Whether you’re considering a combi boiler or need guidance on the best alternative, our experienced Gas Safe registered engineers are here to help.
Get in Touch Today
If you’re thinking about converting to a combi boiler, contact Cotswold Plumbers for expert advice and a free, no-obligation quote. We’ll assess your home’s heating needs and recommend the most efficient and cost-effective solution for you.
Call us today to speak with our friendly team or book a consultation online to get started!
February 2025
How to Prepare for a Boiler Installation
Getting a new boiler installed is an exciting yet significant investment. Whether you’re replacing an old, inefficient unit or installing a boiler for the first time, proper preparation can make the process smoother and stress-free. A well-prepared home ensures the installation is completed efficiently, minimising disruption and ensuring your new system works perfectly from day one.
At Cotswold Plumbers, we take pride in offering professional boiler installations with minimal hassle. To help you get ready, we’ve put together a step-by-step guide on how to prepare for your new installation.
1. Choose the Right Boiler for Your Home
Before the installation day, it’s essential to select the right boiler for your property. Boilers come in various types, including combi, system, and conventional models. Each has its own advantages, depending on your home’s size, hot water demand, and existing plumbing system. If you’re unsure which boiler is best for your needs, our experienced heating engineers can provide expert advice.
2. Arrange for a Pre-Installation Survey
A pre-installation survey is crucial in determining the best placement for your new boiler and identifying any necessary adjustments to your existing pipework or radiators. Our team will assess factors such as ventilation, flue positioning, and gas supply to ensure everything is compliant with regulations. This step helps prevent unexpected issues on installation day.
3. Clear the Installation Area
On the day of the boiler installation, make sure the area around your existing boiler is clear of clutter. If your new boiler is being installed in a different location, ensure easy access for the engineers. Move furniture, remove household items, and clear any obstacles that may hinder the installation process.
4. Ensure Easy Access to Gas and Water Mains
The engineer will need access to your home’s gas and water supply, so ensure these areas are easily reachable. If you’re unsure where your gas and water shut-off valves are, now is a good time to locate them. This will also help you in case of any future emergencies.
5. Consider Upgrading Your Controls
A new boiler installation is the perfect time to upgrade your heating controls. Modern thermostats, including smart systems, allow you to control your heating remotely, improving efficiency and reducing energy bills. Speak to our team about adding smart controls to your system for a fully optimised heating setup.
6. Be Prepared for Some Disruption
Boiler installations typically take between one and three days, depending on the complexity of the job. While our engineers work efficiently to minimise disruption, there may be periods without heating and hot water. Planning ahead by boiling water in advance or arranging alternative heating sources can make this period more comfortable.
7. Check for Any Additional Work Required
If your old boiler was outdated, your pipework and radiators might also need upgrading to maximise efficiency. A system flush is often recommended to remove sludge build-up and ensure your new boiler operates at peak performance. Our team can advise whether additional work is needed and provide a full breakdown of costs before installation begins.
8. Plan for Waste Removal
Your old boiler and any redundant parts will need to be disposed of properly. At Cotswold Plumbers, we handle boiler removals and ensure responsible disposal of waste materials. If you prefer to arrange disposal yourself, make sure you have a plan in place.
9. Ask About Boiler Warranties and Servicing
A new boiler is an investment in your home’s comfort and efficiency, so it’s important to protect it with regular servicing. Many manufacturers require annual servicing to keep warranties valid. Our team offers professional boiler servicing and maintenance to keep your system in top condition.
10. Book Your Installation with Trusted Engineers
The final step in preparing for your new boiler installation is to ensure you’re working with a qualified, Gas Safe registered heating engineer. At Cotswold Plumbers, we provide expert installations with a focus on safety, efficiency, and customer satisfaction.
Ready for Your New Boiler Installation?
If you’re looking for a reliable and professional heating engineer in the Cotswolds, look no further than Cotswold Plumbers. We specialise in boiler installations, servicing, and repairs, ensuring your home stays warm all year round.
Contact us today to discuss your installation and get a free, no-obligation quote. Let’s make your home more energy-efficient and comfortable with a brand-new boiler!