What Is a Combi Boiler?
A combination boiler – or combi boiler, as it is more commonly known, can provide hot water and central heating in the same system. There is no need for a separate water tank. When a tap is turned on, a combi boiler pushes cold water into the heating system, which is then heated up as it travels through the pipes. They are one of the most popular choices of boiler installations in the UK.
What Sets a Combi Boiler Apart from Other Boilers?
They are More Efficient
Compared to older boilers, combis are a lot more efficient. Swapping your old model boiler with installing a new combi boiler could save you hundreds in your annual energy bills. As the water is not stored in a tank, you should never run out of hot water when working correctly.
They are Safer
Water from a combi boiler is safe to drink as it comes directly from the water mains. This is not the case when using a separate water tank, as water is stored in a tank before it is piped around the house.
They are Cheaper to Run
Replacement parts for a combi boiler are a lot cheaper than older, traditional models. They are also easier to install as they are less complex, meaning combi boiler installation is more affordable. Running a combi boiler is cheaper as water is only heated when you need it.
They are Smaller
There is no need for a water tank or hot water cylinder with a combi boiler; therefore, they take up a lot less space than older types of boilers. Great for properties with limited space.
The Best Showers for Combi Boilers
There’s a wide range of showers to choose from with a combi boiler, as they have between 1 to 2 bar pressure. Read on to find out some options.
Thermostatic Showers
These are the perfect choice for combi boilers as they can provide a continuous temperature. This is handy with combi boilers, as one problem with these boilers is if somebody uses hot water in another room, the shower’s temperature can fluctuate. You can even set a maximum temperature to keep your family safe from unexpected hot or cold water.
Digital Showers
The best feature of digital showers is that you can set the temperature and flow rate of the water, and you know the temperature will remain the same, similar to thermostatic showers. Digital showers are also available with great extra features like LED lights and remote controls.
Manual Showers
These can be used with high and low shower pressure, so you should always be able to find a manual shower to work with your boiler. Manual showers are more straightforward than other showers, so cheaper and easier to install.
The problem with manual showers is the valve does not control the temperature. Therefore, if somebody else uses the water supply in your building, the water could suddenly change. For this reason, these showers are not recommended in houses with young children.
Any Showers That Won't Work With a Combi Boiler?
Power Showers
These showers won’t work with combi boilers as they are designed to increase the flow rate of tank fed supplies. Combi boilers produce water at a fixed rate, so it can’t be changed for a power shower.
If you have any further questions regarding combi boilers or any other property maintenance queries, contact us, and we will be more than happy to help. We’re based in London, but we work with clients across the UK.