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Modern homes are typically heated using one of two boiler systems: a system boiler or a combi boiler. Both system boilers and combi boilers have their pros and cons. When upgrading your boiler, it’s important to know the differences between each so that you can choose the right heating system. This post delves more into the differences between them and when to choose each one.
What’s the difference between a system boiler and a combi boiler?
System boilers are an upgraded version of traditional boilers. They heat water up directly from the mains and distribute it into radiators around your home. Some of this water is fed into a hot water cylinder, which is stored there and used to provide hot water to baths, sinks and showers.
Combi boilers, on the other hand, do not have a hot water cylinder. Water is similarly heated directly from the mains. However, it is then sent directly either to radiator or hot water faucets (bath, shower and sink). This makes it a very simple and compact water heating system.
Why get a system boiler?
If you have a traditional boiler system, switching to a system boiler could eliminate the need for a separate hot water cylinder and cold water tank – instead sending water from the mains directly to a hot water cylinder. This could free up the space taken up by a cold water tank in the loft and provide you with hot water on demand.
Having a hot water cylinder makes it possible to provide hot water to multiple taps around the house at the same time. They are recommended in larger houses with multiple bathrooms that are commonly used at the same time – two people can have a shower while someone is using the hot water tap in the kitchen, and you won’t lose heat or pressure. This is not the case with combi boilers, which may lose pressure in such situations.
Why get a combi boiler?
Combi boilers take up the least amount of space of any water heating system. There is no hot water cylinder – this could potentially free up cupboard space for extra storage. Combi boilers are popular in apartments for this reason.
Like a system boiler, a combi boiler can provide hot water on demand as it heats water directly from the mains. However, combi boilers can be more energy-efficient, because you only have one component doing the heating. Those wanting to cut their energy bills can often benefit from installing a combi boiler. It’s also worth noting that combi boilers can be cheaper to install than system boilers, although it’s worth comparing quotes of both.
Combi or system boiler?
A system boiler is recommended if you have a large house with two or more bathrooms. Such a system will be able to keep up with your hot water demands without losing pressure.
Combi boilers are better suited in smaller homes and can benefit those wanting to save money on their bills. Swapping a traditional or system boiler for a combi boiler could also be a great way to free up space.
Image Credit: depositphotos.com
