Combination Boilers |
Combination
boilers provide both instant hot water and central heating, but not at the
same time. They are “hot water priority” which means when hot water is being run
there is no heat output to the radiators. These boilers are ideal in smaller
homes (Flats) where space is at a premium or where the demand for hot water is not too
great.
These are not recommended for houses with more that one bathroom due to the low
hot water flow rate which can only feed one tap at a time In larger homes, or if
there is a need for stored hot water you can install these with a "S-Plan"
system, then just use the instant water at one or two taps and a cylinder to
feed one or two bathrooms. Some combination boilers supply hot water quicker
that others. This is mainly because some store a small amount of hot water, so
when the hot tap is run the stored water is used first. Others have to start up
from cold which could mean running a lot of cold water before the hot water gets
to the tap. it is recommended to get a 28KW output as a lower output affects the
hot water temperature Careful consideration as to the location of a combination
boiler is essential. It should be fitted as close to the taps as possible. (half
way between the kitchen & bathroom would be ideal) If a combination boiler is
fitted a long way from the taps, a lot of water will be wasted waiting for the
hot water to reach them.
These boilers are very popular at present mainly because they are very easy to
install and all the necessary components are built in, plus there is no need for
any tanks. (Designed to work on a sealed system) However, the water temperature
is normally limited to just under 60deg °C, and that is at a low water flow
rate. At higher water flow rates the temperature will be lower depending on the
temperature of the water coming in from the mains, Normally these will raise the
water temperature about 35C at 12 L/min.
This
type of boiler is very cheap to run, but can also be troublesome and expensive
to repair if faults occur. You may also find that a lot of installers can't
repair this type of boiler, so if you are going to have a combination boiler
fitted, ask when you are getting quotes about the maintenance. If the installer
can't or won't repair it then try someone else who can maintain the appliance
Some manufacturers are now making combination boilers that are designed to be
replaced after 5 years, the idea is to sell them cheap so that if they break
down it will not be worth repairing them!
Advantages
Cheap to run
Very
easy to install
Disadvantages
Can
only feed one hot water tap at a time
Parts can be expensive
Can
be troublesome and expensive to maintain
Shorter life span
Sometimes difficult finding someone able to repair these boilers
Not
for homes with more that one bathroom
Note
the installation of a Room thermostat is very beneficial to these type of boiler
(and compulsory under the 2002 Building regulations), It will make the boiler
more reliable and more economical to run but unfortunately a lot of plumbers
don't fit them because it means more work for them.
|
| |
| |
| |
