Is a Combi Boiler Cheaper to Run?

When it comes to looking at the costs of running a boiler, there are a few things to consider:

• The size of your property and how many bathrooms
• Usage – bath, shower, central heating
• Boiler efficiency

How Do Combi Boilers Work?

Combi boilers work by heating water directly from the mains and circulating it directly to either the central heating system or hot water outlet when you need it.

Combi boilers are ideal for smaller properties with 1 or 2 bathrooms. If you have a larger property you may need to look at a boiler that fits with your household needs due to the increased demand for hot water and heating.

Combi boilers can be more cost-effective overall and this is why they are fast becoming the most popular choice of boiler in UK households. It’s worth noting that cost effectiveness does also depend on your lifestyle and how much hot water you tend to use.

Is a Combi Boiler Cost Effective?

Here’s a few ways that you can consider the cost effectiveness of a Combi boiler:

• The installation cost is lower due to less parts needing to be installed (depending on your current heating system and if the boiler is being relocated or just replaced)
• Boiler parts are easier to obtain when it comes to repairs and servicing
• Cheaper to run compared to a standard heating system and less energy waste
• No water waste due to water coming directly from the mains
• Lower water costs due to the absence of a water tank (usage dependant)
• Other things to consider before choosing a Combi Boiler:
• Your incoming mains flow rate and pressure as this will dictate how well your hot water works
• Number of hot water outlets, as if more than 2 outlets are regularly used simultaneously a combi may not be the best option
• Location, combi’s are slightly bigger than conventional boilers so may not fit in small kitchen cupboards

What you need to know
When it comes to the cost of running a boiler you will want to ensure that you keep up with servicing to ensure that it is running efficiently. We recommend an annual service to get the most out of your boiler and to ensure that it is always running at it’s best.
Bear in mind that older boilers can become less efficient over time and overall more expensive to run. So it’s good to consider how long you have had your boiler for and it’s age.

Are You Due an Upgrade?

Energy bills are set to soar to record highs this year. Upgrading to a new modern combi boiler is likely to save you between 20-35% on your gas bills.

According to the Energy Saving Trust, 55% of your energy bills are spent on heating so it’s worth trying to reduce costs where you can.