Combi boilers and condensing boilers are often confused, but they are not the same thing. A combi boiler is a specific type of boiler that provides both hot water and central heating from one unit, while a condensing boiler refers to the technology that a boiler uses to increase efficiency. All new boilers installed in the UK must now be condensing boilers as per the Building Regulations.
Is a condensing boiler the same as a combi boiler?
All combi boilers installed in the UK must now be condensing boilers, but not all condensing boilers are combi boilers. Condensing boilers work by absorbing waste gas heat and using it to warm up the water returning to the boiler, reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions. This process is called condensation, and it is what gives the boiler its name.
Condensing boilers are more efficient than traditional boilers as they are able to recover heat that would otherwise be lost in the flue gases, resulting in lower fuel consumption and lower emissions.
Why are combi boilers popular?
A combi boiler is a popular choice for UK homes as it does not require a separate hot water storage cylinder or an overhead tank, this means they take up less room and are therefore excellent for smaller homes, with some even fitting into the typical sized kitchen cabinet.
They also provide hot water on demand, which means you don’t have to wait for a tank to fill up before taking a shower or running the dishwasher. This makes combi boilers a great choice for households with low hot water demand.
Popular models of combi boilers include:
- Worcester Bosch Greenstar 30i
- Viessmann Vitodens 050-W
- Baxi Platinum Combi
- Vaillant ecoTEC Plus 832
- Ideal Logic+ Combi
- Potterton Promax Combi
Which Is Better – Combi Boilers or Condensing Boilers?
It depends on your specific needs and circumstances. Combi boilers are a great choice for households with low hot water demand as they provide hot water on demand and do not require a separate hot water storage cylinder or an overhead tank. Condensing boilers are more efficient than traditional boilers and can save on energy costs, but may not be the best option for larger households with high hot water demand.
What Are The Different Types Of Condensing Boilers?
There are different types of condensing boilers such as combi boilers, system boilers and heat-only boilers. Combi boilers provide both hot water and central heating from one unit, system boilers provide central heating and hot water storage, and heat-only boilers provide central heating but require a separate hot water storage cylinder or an overhead tank.
Does a condensing boiler cost more than a combi boiler?
If you are buying a new combi boiler, it will also be a condensing boiler at the same time so there is no difference. The cost of a condensing combi boiler can vary depending on several factors, such as the make and model, the size and power of the boiler, and the cost of installation.
Choosing Your Boiler
When choosing your boiler, it’s important to consider factors such as the size of your property, your hot water demand, and your budget. It’s also important to choose a qualified and experienced heating engineer, and to make sure the engineer is Gas Safe registered and has the appropriate insurance and qualifications to carry out the installation. It’s also important to check company reviews before committing to payment.
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