Everything you need to know about Combi boilers

If you’ve owned or rented a property at any time in the last 50 years, chances are you’ll have come across a Combi boiler. They’re one of the most common boilers found in UK homes and for good reason- they do a great job.

What is a Combi boiler?

Combi, or combination boilers are essentially a ‘two in one’ home appliance. As the name implies, a Combi boiler performs a combination of tasks. Unlike other, bulkier alternatives, a Combi controls both your central heating and hot water from one unit.

Via a complex route of pipes and heat exchangers, Combis perform household miracles from the most modest of settings. If you’d like to hear more about how they work give us a shout, we love talking boilers!

Developed in 1970s, one of the reasons Combis became so popular is they can work their magic from the tiniest of spaces (think kitchen cupboard). Unlike more traditional boiler set-ups, Combis do not require lots of component parts and can therefore be stashed away tidily in your typical British home.

What are the pros of a Combi boiler?

Built with the average, busy household in mind, Combis are a great solution for heating and powering your home, when demand for hot water isn’t too intense and space is at a premium.

• They’re compact (designed to squeeze into small spaces)
• Their size means they’re nicer to look at
• They power both your central heating and hot water
• Crucially, they supply instant hot water (so no dancing around in your towel, waiting for the water to warm up)

Like any home appliance, boilers (yes, even Combis) can sometimes go wrong. This is where a Combi really does come into its own. Due to their presence in most UK homes, finding a trained engineer to fix your problem, won’t be an issue. And, yes of course, all our Gas Safe registered engineers are Combi experts! Give us a call to chat boilers, heating systems, or for recommendations on how we can help make sure your boiler doesn’t develop any issues.

What are the cons of a Combi boiler?

The secret’s out, like the rest of the UK, we love Combi boilers. However, there might be one or two instances where a Combi doesn’t suit the needs of your home.

• If your home is larger, or your demand for hot water is high, a Combi might not be the best option.
• If your water pressure isn’t great, a Combi boiler won’t work to optimum output.

Are Combi boilers energy efficient?

We’re all working towards a more energy efficient future and by and large, you’re onto a good thing with a Combi boiler. Whilst there can be some differences, depending on the energy source, the most modern (and greenest) of Combis can run at up to 98% efficiency.

There are four main types of Combis, with electric coming in as the most energy efficient and planet conscious of them all.

• Electric Combi boiler
• Gas Combi boiler (most common in UK households)
• LPG Combi boiler (for those not reliant on oil but without mains access to Gas)
• Oil Combi boiler (not particularly efficient and only recommended in rare cases where a property is not connected to the Grid)

If you’re still unsure as to which boiler is best suited to you, please get in touch on 0116 298 5213 and we can walk you through your options. For more reading around the subject of boiler types have a look at Getting the right boiler for your home.

Need help with your boiler or heating system? Contact us today