Regular boilers (also known as ‘conventional' boilers) are a type of condensing boiler. There are more parts to a system involving a regular boiler than a ‘Combi' boiler: as well as the boiler you typically have a hot water storage tank, and a feed and expansion tank. The whole system is usually fed by a cold water storage tank (typically in the loft).
Advantages of Regular Boilers
The main advantage of a regular boiler is that you normally get a greater flow rate of hot water than with Combi boilers. This is because Regular boiler systems store hot water ready for use, rather than heating it on demand. This increased flow rate can be helpful if your household uses hot water in several different places at the same time, e.g. different bathrooms and the kitchen. It means that you can run a bath or have a shower while someone is doing the washing up.
Regular boilers can also be helpful if you live in an area with low mains water pressure. This is because the whole system is fed from a cold water storage tank. In such areas Combi boilers can be unsuitable.
Disadvantages of Regular Boilers
Running costs can be higher, and energy efficiency lower than for Combi boilers. This is because the regular boiler system stores hot water throughout the day, and so heat is lost from this storage tank and the pipework around it. This can be reduced by properly insulating the hot water tank, but not reduced to zero.
Regular boiler systems also take up a lot more space than Combi boilers. They need space in the loft for the cold water tank and a feed and expansion tank. They also need space for the hot water tank, which is usually in an airing cupboard. In many houses this extra required space is not a problem. However, some families will want to use the space for other purposes, like converting the loft into more living space, or using the airing cupboard for storage instead.
Should you choose a Regular boiler?
Regular boilers are good for homes that need to use hot water at several different points at once, or which have low water pressure. However they can cost more to run, and do take up more space.
A boiler is a major investment and it is worth getting the advice of a professional installer that you can trust. They can also tell you which makes and models you should consider, and how large the boiler will need to be to service your home, and how much it will all cost. You can book a free heating survey and boiler quotation from British Gas in a couple of minutes by clicking here.
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