Ideal boilers have established themselves as a trustworthy choice in the UK heating market, providing a variety of solutions to fulfil a wide range of household requirements. Choosing the right boiler type is important to reaching maximum home heating efficiency and comfort.
In this guide, our heating engineers in Gillingham, Maidstone, Sittingbourne and Tunbridge Wells explore the various types of Ideal boilers available, providing essential details to help you make an informed decision for your home.
Types of Ideal Boilers
Combi Boilers
Combi boilers, short for combination boilers, are a popular choice for many British homes. These units combine a high-efficiency water heater and a central heating boiler in a single compact system. Combi boilers heat water directly from the mains when you turn on a tap, eliminating the need for a separate hot water storage cylinder or cold water storage tank.
Ideal offers several combi boiler models, including the Logic Combi and Independent Plus series. These boilers are particularly suitable for smaller households with one bathroom, where hot water demand is moderate.
Benefits of Ideal combi boilers:
- Space-saving design, ideal for homes with limited space
- No need for separate water tanks, reducing installation complexity
- Instantaneous hot water supply
- High energy efficiency, potentially lowering energy bills
However, combi boilers may struggle to maintain water pressure if multiple taps are used simultaneously, making them less suitable for larger households.
System Boilers
System boilers are designed to provide efficient heating and hot water for homes with higher demand. Unlike combi boilers, system boilers work with a separate hot water cylinder but don't require a cold water tank in the loft.
Ideal's system boiler range includes the Logic System and Vogue System models. These boilers are well-suited for homes with multiple bathrooms or those requiring a constant supply of hot water to several outlets simultaneously.
Benefits of Ideal system boilers:
- Efficient performance for homes with higher hot water demands
- Compatible with solar thermal systems for increased energy efficiency
- Ability to supply multiple taps without significant pressure loss
- No need for a cold water tank, saving loft space
System boilers require space for a hot water cylinder, typically housed in an airing cupboard. This setup allows for a consistent supply of stored hot water, making it ideal for households with multiple bathrooms or high hot water usage.
Heat Only Boilers (Conventional Boilers)
Heat only boilers, also known as conventional or regular boilers, are the traditional heating systems found in many older British homes. These boilers work with both a hot water cylinder and a cold water storage tank, typically located in the loft.
Ideal offers heat only boilers in their Logic Heat and Vogue Heat ranges. These systems are particularly suitable for larger homes with multiple bathrooms and properties with older radiator systems that may not cope well with the higher pressure of combi or system boilers.
Benefits of Ideal heat only boilers:
- Excellent for homes with high hot water demand
- Can operate effectively in areas with low water pressure
- Compatible with older radiator systems
- Ideal for properties where multiple taps are used simultaneously
Heat only boilers require more space due to the need for both hot and cold water storage. However, they offer great flexibility in managing hot water supply and can be an excellent choice for period properties or large households.
How to Choose an Ideal Boiler
Property size
Larger homes typically require system or heat only boilers to meet higher heating and hot water demands.
Number of bathrooms
Multiple bathrooms suggest a need for a system or heat only boiler to maintain adequate water pressure.
Available space
Limited space may necessitate a combi boiler, while more spacious properties can accommodate system or heat only setups.
Hot water requirements
Consider peak usage times and the number of people in the household to determine the appropriate boiler type.
Existing system
The current heating system may influence the choice, particularly in older properties.
Future plans
Consider potential home extensions or family size changes that might affect future hot water and heating needs.
By carefully evaluating these factors, you can select the most appropriate Ideal boiler type for your specific circumstances, ensuring efficient heating and hot water supply for years to come.
If you need expert help from our heating engineer in Maidstone, Gillingham, Sittingbourne and Tunbridge Wells, simply call us on 075400 53343.
