A combination (combi) boiler is a compact heating system that combines the functions of an instant water heater and a central heating boiler. The two systems are sealed in a single compact case and are ideal for central heating. Although there are other types of water heating systems, this is the most popular option in the UK. Here are some of the important details and advantages you need to know about combination boilers.
How do combination boilers work?
A combi boiler has an on/off tap. When turned on, the boiler has a little sensor that commands it to start burning gas or oil depending on its type. In turn, water passes through the boiler on its way to your taps. The heat exchanger gets hot, which, in turn, heats the water to supply hot water from the taps.
Advantages of a combi boiler
Condensing combi boilers are ideal to be used at home and in offices. Among the benefits of installing a combi boiler are:
It requires less space
A combi boiler is a single unit that can fit in a cupboard. However, you need to create some space for a pipe that gets rid of water vapour. Unlike other heaters, these boilers are usually fixed on one of the kitchen walls. Surprisingly, you don’t need a tank in the loft to store hot water. This saves a lot of space as some heaters require up to two large storage tanks.
It is cost-effective
First, combination boilers are cheap to install. Second, you only heat water on demand. This is more economical compared to when you heat a full tank of water.
It is energy efficient
Combination boilers are manufactured to save energy. This system consumes a small amount of energy to supply large amounts of hot water. Research shows that a combi boiler saves over 30% of energy consumed by other heating systems.
It is eco-friendly
Traditional heating options such as the burning of fossil fuels produced sulphur and carbon monoxide. These emissions were harmful to life and the environment. Combination boilers, on the other hand, operate quietly, releasing nothing harmful. This system is the best for conserving the environment.
It is family-friendly
The good thing about this type of boiler is that it’s a sealed and compact unit. The system is family friendly as you only need to turn on the boiler.
These are some of the benefits associated with combination boilers. It is advisable that you control the system temperature to save energy and regulate the water temperatures. The other thing you need to know about is boiler servicing. Make sure that you hire a Gas Safe registered engineer to service your boiler at least once per year.