Published: Tuesday 1st October, 2024

Types of domestic gas heating systems in the UK

Choosing the right boiler for your home is crucial for ensuring comfort, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. With several types of domestic gas boilers available, it’s important to understand their differences to make an informed decision. In this guide, we'll explore the three main types of domestic gas heating systems: combi boilers, heat-only boilers, and system boilers.

 

Combi boilers

 

What is a combi boiler?

A combination boiler, commonly known as a combi boiler, provides both heating and hot water directly from the boiler without the need for a separate water tank or cylinder. It’s the most popular choice for homes in the UK.

Pros:

• Space-saving: No need for a hot water storage cylinder or cold water storage tank, making it ideal for smaller properties.
• On-demand hot water: Instant hot water as and when you need it, you’ll never run out of hot water again.
• Energy efficient: Heats water only when needed, reducing energy wastage.

Cons:

• Limited simultaneous use: Hot water pressure can decrease if multiple outlets are used at the same time, which may be an issue in larger households.
• Not ideal for homes with high water demand: May struggle to meet high demand for hot water in larger homes with multiple bathrooms.

Best for:

• Small to medium-sized homes with limited space and moderate hot water needs.

 

Heat-only boilers (regular or conventional boilers)

 

What is a heat-only boiler?

Heat-only boilers, also known as regular or conventional boilers, work with a separate hot water cylinder and cold water tank. They provide hot water for both heating and domestic use.

Pros:

• Ideal for high demand: Can supply hot water to multiple outlets simultaneously, making it perfect for larger homes.
• Compatible with old systems: Often a good choice for homes with older radiator systems that might not be compatible with higher pressure systems like combi boilers.
• Backup hot water: Hot water cylinder stores water, so you can still access hot water even if the boiler is off temporarily.

Cons:

• Space requirements: Requires a loft space for the cold water tank and an airing cupboard for the hot water cylinder.
• Lower efficiency: May heat more water than is needed, leading to potential energy wastage.

Best for:

• Larger homes with multiple bathrooms or properties with existing conventional heating systems.

 

System boilers

 

What is a system boiler?

System boilers work similarly to heat-only boilers but integrate many components into the boiler unit, including the pump and expansion vessel. They require a hot water cylinder but not a cold water tank, as they are connected directly to the mains.

Pros:

• Constant hot water supply: Can deliver a large volume of hot water to multiple outlets simultaneously, ideal for homes with high water demand.
• No cold water tank needed: Saves space in the loft, making it a good option for homes without loft space.
• Efficient and fast: Provides rapid heating and hot water delivery as components are built into the boiler, reducing installation time and space.

Cons:

• Space for hot water cylinder required: Needs an airing cupboard or similar space for the hot water cylinder.
• Hot water limited to cylinder capacity: Once the stored hot water runs out, you’ll need to wait for it to reheat.

Best for:

• Homes with higher hot water demand and those without loft space but with space for a hot water cylinder.

 

How to choose the right boiler for your home

 

1. Consider your hot water needs:
   • For smaller homes with a single bathroom, a combi boiler is typically sufficient.
   • For larger homes with multiple bathrooms, a system or heat-only boiler may be more suitable.
2. Space availability:
3. • If space is at a premium, consider a combi boiler.
   • If you have a loft and airing cupboard space, a heat-only or system boiler may be better options.
4. Existing system compatibility:
   
   • Upgrading to a similar type of boiler (e.g., from regular to regular) may simplify installation and reduce costs.
5. Future-proofing:
   
   • Consider your future needs, such as potential home extensions or additional bathrooms, when choosing a boiler type.

 

Choosing the right boiler is essential but keeping it well-maintained is just as important. At OpenFix, our comprehensive boiler & heating care plans include annual servicing and ongoing support, helping you to avoid expensive repair bills.

 

Get complete peace of mind with our reliable home & boiler care

Sign up today and enjoy hassle-free heating.

Choose My Care Plan