Understanding the Different Types of Boilers: Combi, System, and Regular

Heating your home efficiently and effectively is vital, especially during those colder months. In many homes, boilers are at the heart of this process, providing not just warmth, but hot water, too. However, not all boilers are created equal.

There are three main types of boilers: combi, system, and regular boilers. Each has its unique features, advantages, and best use scenarios. 

Combi Boilers: Compact and Efficient

Combi (or combination) boilers are particularly suited for smaller homes where space is at a premium. What sets combi boilers apart is their ability to provide heating and hot water directly from the mains, without the need for separate water tanks or cylinders. They’re highly efficient, as water is heated on demand, meaning you won’t be heating and storing water that you don’t use. This efficiency translates into lower energy bills and reduced environmental impact.

System Boilers: Steady Supply for Larger Homes

System boilers, on the other hand, work on a principle similar to combi boilers but include an additional sealed water cylinder to store hot water. This additional component means that, compared to combi boilers, they require more space, often in an airing cupboard. The key advantage of system boilers is their ability to provide a steady supply of hot water to multiple taps simultaneously, making them an ideal choice for homes with greater hot water needs, such as families with multiple bathrooms. Since the major heating components are built into the system, it makes them easier and less costly to install.

Regular Boilers: The Traditional Choice

Regular boilers, also known as traditional, conventional, or heat only boilers, are typically found in older homes. They require both a cold water storage tank and a separate hot water cylinder. Regular boilers are a good solution for homes where water pressure is low, and they’re excellent for systems that include many old radiators that might not cope well with the high water pressure delivered by system or combi boilers. While they take up the most space and their setup is more complex, they’re unmatched in their ability to supply large volumes of hot water to several places at once.

Which Boiler is Right for You?

Choosing the right boiler comes down to your home’s size, your water usage, and whether you’re willing to sacrifice space for constant hot water. Combi boilers are unbeatable for compactness and efficiency, system boilers for balance and steady supply to larger homes, and regular boilers for tradition and capacity.

In the Denver Metro Area and surrounding communities, ABE Heating and Cooling specializes in installing, replacing, and maintaining all types of boilers. With a team of experienced professionals, we’re committed to providing quality service tailored to your needs. Contact us for a free no-cost estimate and let us help you enjoy the warmth and comfort of an efficient home heating system.