Should you Choose a Combi Boiler?

A ‘combi’ or combination boiler is both a central heating boiler and a high efficiency water heater all in one compact unit. The obvious advantage of this is the space-saving, as it does away with the hot/cold water storage tanks in your loft. Combi boilers supply hot water by heating it up directly from the mains when you turn on a tap.

What are the benefits of Combi Boilers?

Aside from the space-saving advantage, there are many other benefits to having a combi boiler installed: They are more energy-efficient and cost-effective due to the fact they heat water instantly rather than heating it then storing it. Regular boilers work by producing hot water twice a day, whether you need it or not, which means the boiler has to fire up to do it. If the hot water is not used, it simply cools down, however this results in a waste of energy. As combi boilers only make hot water when you need it, for example when you turn the shower on, this translates into energy savings for you. On top of all that, the hot water is supplied at mains pressure, so you get a powerful shower without the need for a separate pump. Furthermore, you would not have to worry about loft pipework freezing, and as there is less pipework in the home this makes installation cheaper than with other boiler types.

But is a combi boiler right for you?

The answer is yes if you live in a flat or small house where space is limited, and if there is only ever one shower running at once. It is ideal if you are considering a loft conversion, as there is no need for water tanks. And if your current boiler is aging and has become unreliable, you might consider getting a combi boiler as a replacement. Combi boilers however are not suitable for homes with a greater demand for hot water at the same time, it simply wouldn’t be able to cope with two showers going at once. In this case you would be better off with a regular or system boiler.

Worcester Bosch is the leading boiler manufacturer in the UK and all of their ‘Greenstar’ combi boilers have been awarded Best Buys by ‘Which?’. There are 59 different models to choose from.

If you would like to apply for a grant for a new combi boiler, fill in our quick application form.