If you want to keep your home or business heated, the type of boiler chosen makes the difference between success and failure. Everybody cares about comfort and cost, but energy use and how “green” the boiler is differs wildly. Every boiler has a slew of benefits so make sure you understand the important needs of your unique situation. 

Five main types of boilers exist. We’ve put together an overview of each to help you decide which type of boiler may be best for you, your family, or your business.

1. Combi Boilers

Combination boilers are popular in plenty of smaller homes and most apartments due to a compact, space-saving design. Combis use water heating and central heating in a single unit, providing hot water on demand without a separate water tank, unlike most alternatives.

Advantages

• Compact and space-saving - Ideal for small properties or homes where space is limited.
• Efficient and cost-effective - Combi boilers heat water directly from the mains, which reduces energy waste and can help save on bills.
• No need for a hot water tank - A good choice for apartments or homes without extra storage space.

2. System Boilers

System boilers are ideal for larger homes with multiple bathrooms, as they deliver strong water pressure directly from the mains. These boilers come designed to provide consistent hot water to several taps at once without a noticeable pressure drop, which is a key benefit for larger households.

Advantages

• Powerful hot water supply - Supports multiple showers or taps running at once.
• Mains pressure hot water - Offers consistent and intense water pressure, enhancing the comfort of a larger home.
• No need for a hot water tank - Saves space, though these require more room than combi boilers.

3. Conventional Boilers

Also known as regular or traditional boilers, conventional boilers are often found in older homes and larger properties. They require a hot water cylinder and a cold water tank, typically in an airing cupboard or loft. This setup allows them to supply a large volume of hot water, which benefits households with high hot water demands.

Advantages

• Reliable and long-lasting - Conventional boilers have a reputation for durability.
• Can provide an ample supply of hot water - Suitable for homes with high hot water usage.
• More affordable upfront - Installation costs can be lower, though they may require more space.

4. Heat-Only Boilers

Heat-only boilers are similar to conventional boilers but are designed to be dedicated to heating and don’t typically provide hot water directly. They are commonly used with other heating systems, such as solar panels, for increased efficiency.

Advantages

• Simple and easy to maintain - These boilers are straightforward and less complex.
• Can be combined with other heating sources - They work well alongside eco-friendly options like solar heating.
• Cost-effective - They may have lower upfront and maintenance costs than other types.

5. Electric Boilers

Electric boilers are an environmentally friendly and efficient option, particularly for homes without access to natural gas. They are quiet, easy to install, and don’t require a flue or chimney, which makes them a versatile option. Electric boilers are well-suited to smaller homes or apartments with lower hot water needs.

Advantages

• Clean and environmentally friendly - No emissions make them a green choice.
• Easy to install and maintain - Electric boilers generally have fewer moving parts, making them easier to maintain.
• No need for a flue or chimney - This allows for flexible installation, even in smaller spaces.
  

Picture Perfect Plumbing and Heating worked to obtain all the experience and knowledge needed to select the best boiler for your scenario. With a licensed master plumber and heating contractor on staff, we leverage our experience and certifications to provide you with the absolute best heating and plumbing services available.



Contact us anytime by filling out this online form or calling 718-266-6600 to start the boiler maintenance or replacement process.