When it comes to choosing a new boiler it’s worth weighing up all the options so that you are able to pick the most suitable model for you and your family. The type, size and energy-efficiency of your boiler will affect how well it performs and how much energy you will have to pay for.
Bear in mind that modern, condensing boilers (both gas and oil) are more efficient than older, non-condensing models. They offer 90% efficiency, on average, compared with just 60% for non-condensing boilers. Popular brands include Worcester Bosch and Vaillant, both of which are known for their efficiency and longevity.
Conventional boilers
With a conventional boiler, your hot water will be supplied using a storage tank. Water is heated through cast iron heat exchangers, with the potential to provide vast amounts of hot water at a time. However, there may be a delay in supply once your stored hot water runs out and the tank is refilling. Another downside to conventional boilers is that they can take up more space than alternative options as a cold water storage tank usually needs to be stored in the loft. This can also make installation more complex.
Older conventional boilers tend to lack energy-efficiency, but newer models can be tailored to meet your family’s specific heating needs, making them more efficient. More recent models also tend to be more compact.
Combination boilers
Combination (combi) boilers supply your hot water directly from the mains, so there is no need to install a storage tank in the loft. Most combination boilers can produce an unlimited supply of hot water without taking up much space. Another advantage of combination boilers is that they offer excellent water pressure, which will enable your shower to run at mains pressure without adding a separate shower pump. Many combination boilers use condensing technology and may also have an eco mode, which maintains boiler temperature when it is on standby.
Oil-burning boilers
If you’re not connected to the UK gas network, you may want to install an oil-powered central heating system with an oil boiler. Most oil-burning combination boilers contain an internal hot water store to supply hot water compared with the instantaneous heating offered by many gas boilers.
Choice may be more limited with oil boilers, but there are several viable options on the market, including heat-only and condensing oil boilers. You will need to arrange to have your oil supply delivered and stored in a tank, which means forward planning is essential. Oil is a more efficient fuel than gas, but oil prices fluctuate so you may find that your energy prices are difficult to predict.
Need a new boiler?
If you need a new boiler, get in touch with Bristol boiler company, DHS. We can advise you on the most suitable boiler for your household and will ensure that your new boiler is installed properly and works efficiently. As approved installers of Worcester Bosch and Vaillant boilers, we will get your boiler up and running with minimal inconvenience and cost.
Call DHS today on 0117 924 7200, email us, or request a call back.
Unit 2 Septimus Buildings 
