Choosing the right boiler for your property is essential. There are many options, and some expert advice will be very welcome. However, it is a good idea to have a clear idea of what you need and the costs involved.
Do I really need a new boiler?
If you have a boiler which is over ten years old, it may still be working, but not as efficiently as a new boiler would. You may notice the energy bills rising for no apparent reason. Your boiler may have needed repairs more frequently, and the engineer maybe had difficulty finding new parts. Strange noises may be coming from your boiler, or it may even have sprung a leak.
Even if your old boiler seems to be doing fine, it may still be worth getting a new one installed. New boilers are likely to be much more efficient, will heat your home better and will save you money on bills.
What type of boiler is best for your premises?
There are basically three types of boilers: combi, heat-only, and system boilers. Combis are by far the most common, but it is worth finding out about all three types, since each has its advantages and disadvantages.
Combi boilers do not need a cold-water storage tank and do not store hot water either. They take their water directly from the mains. This, obviously, saves space. It means the hot water is there for you when you need it. Combi boilers have improved greatly over the last ten to fifteen years, and the newer models are far more efficient and user-friendly.
Heat-only boilers are the more conventional type; these heat hot water and store it in a cylinder. These are sometimes a better choice for a premises needing large amounts of hot water, but they do need a cold-water feed tank, usually in the attic.
System boilers are similar to heat-only boilers except that system boilers do not require a cold-water feed tank. They take their water directly from the mains. System boilers are also good for premises requiring a lot of hot water, but they tend to have better and more consistent water pressure than heat-only boilers, and save on space.
To make sure you are choosing the best boiler for your needs, get some advice from your engineer, who will explain the pros and cons of each type.
What guarantees will I have?
Before purchasing a new boiler, you should always ask about the guarantee. You should find out what period of time it covers, what kind of repairs and maintenance are included, and what might invalidate it. Make sure you are clear about the guarantee and exactly what it offers.
Ask about how to run your new boiler, and how to make it more efficient and cost-effective.
Even when you have bought a new and super-efficient boiler, using it in the right way can save you money, and provide the best service for your premises. Thermostat and timer settings can make a big difference to the energy efficiency of your system.
How long will the installation take and what will it involve?
Having a new boiler installed can take time, depending on the premises and the type of boiler you are getting. You need to know roughly how long it is going to take, and what disruption to expect during the installation.
Will my heating system be flushed?
Your existing system (pipes, radiators etc.) may be clogged up and dirty, and need a good flushing out to improve their efficiency. Ask the installers if the flush is included in the installation.
Will my system be balanced during the installation?
It is important that the whole system is balanced, for example, that the radiators are giving out the same heat. You should ask the installers if a balance check is included in the installation.
Do I need new heating controls?
Gone are the days when the heating could be controlled only by a single wall thermostat and a timer. There is now a rather bewildering choice of smart controls that can really help you fine-tune your heating for maximum efficiency and comfort. It is worth finding out more about these, as you don’t want a brand new, super-efficient boiler to be hampered by outdated controls.
Xgas can help you make the right choices when it comes to choosing a boiler. Get in touch with us and we can talk you through the options that best suit your needs and your budget.
