How to Choose the Best Boiler for You
Choosing a Boiler Doesn’t Have to be a Nightmare!
Let’s be honest—choosing a new boiler is about as exciting as watching paint dry. But, like paint, pick the wrong one, and you’ll regret it for years. A good boiler keeps your home toasty, your showers steamy, and your energy bills sensible. A bad boiler? Well, let’s just say no one wants an unexpected ice bath in the middle of winter.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by all the options, fear not! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, minus the jargon and with just enough humour to keep you awake.
Step 1: Understand the Types of Boilers
Before you can choose the best boiler for you, you need to understand what’s available. The three main types of boilers in the UK are:
1. Combi Boilers
Best for: Small to medium homes with one or two bathrooms.
Pros:
Heats water on demand—no need for a storage tank.
Compact and space-saving.
Energy-efficient, as it only heats what you use.
Cons:
Can struggle if multiple taps/showers are used at the same time.
Not ideal for large homes with high hot water demand.
2. System Boilers
Best for: Medium to large homes with multiple bathrooms.
Pros:
The pump is inside the boiler so covered under the warranty or guarantee.
More efficient than traditional boilers.
Doesn’t require a bulky header tank usually in the loft (unlike open vented heating systems).
Cons:
Requires a hot water storage cylinder, so needs extra space.
Can run out of hot water if demand is very high.
3. Conventional (Regular) Boilers
Best for: Large homes or properties with traditional heating setups.
Pros:
Handles multiple taps running at once with ease.
Compatible with older central heating systems.
Cons:
Requires both a hot water cylinder and a cold water storage tank—takes up lots of space.
Less efficient due to stored hot water cooling over time.
If fitted to open vented heating systems incorrectly can cause sludge build up in the header tank and heating system.
Step 2: Consider Your Home’s Size and Hot Water Needs
Choosing the right boiler size is crucial. Too small, and you’ll have lukewarm showers. Too big, and you’re wasting money on energy bills. Here’s a rough guide:
1-2 bedroom home (1 bathroom): A 24-27kW combi boiler is usually perfect.
3-4 bedroom home (1-2 bathrooms): A 28-34kW combi or system boiler is a safe bet.
5+ bedroom home (2+ bathrooms): A 35kW+ system or conventional boiler is likely needed.
Step 3: Think About Efficiency and Running Costs
Energy efficiency isn’t just about being kind to the planet—it’s about saving you money! A modern A-rated boiler (90%+ efficiency) could save you hundreds per year compared to an old, inefficient older boilers which can be as low as 50% efficient. The difference could save you 40%+ on your gas bills
Quick Tip: Look for boilers with a high ErP (Energy-related Products) rating and consider options with smart thermostats like Hive or Nest to optimise energy usage.
Step 4: Fuel Type – Gas, Oil, or Electric?
Gas Boilers
The most common in the UK.
Generally the cheapest to run.
Requires connection to the gas grid.
Oil Boilers
Best for homes not connected to mains gas.
Higher running costs than gas but cheaper than electricity.
Requires an external oil storage tank.
Electric Boilers
Good for small properties or areas without gas or oil supply.
More expensive to run due to electricity costs.
100% efficient but still pricier than gas.
Step 5: Brand Reputation and Reliability
Your boiler is an investment, so choosing a trusted brand is key. Some of the most reputable boiler brands in the UK include:
Worcester Bosch – Known for reliability, amazing after sales care and efficiency.
Alpha Boilers – Great quality budget boiler, with outstanding performance.
Ideal Boilers – Good balance of cost and performance.
Baxi – Solid mid-range option.
Pro Tip: After care is the main criteria for a new boiler. Because they come with ever growing warranties or guarantees you need to know it will be repaired if broken under the warranty.
Step 6: Factor in Installation Costs and Warranties
A boiler isn’t just about the unit itself—installation is a big part of the cost. Expect to pay:
Combi to combi swap: £2000 – £3,500
System to combi conversion: £2,500 – £5,500
Full system replacement: £6,500+
Always check for a boiler warranty/ guarantee. Most reputable brands offer between 5 to 12 years, with Worcester Bosch leading the way with some up to 12 years and it’s a guarantee not a warranty.
Step 7: Don’t Forget Smart Controls!
A boiler alone doesn’t maximise efficiency—you need good controls! Consider:
Smart Thermostats (e.g., Hive, Nest, Worcester Smart Controls): Lets you control heating from your phone.
Programmable Thermostats: Set different temperatures for different times of day.
Weather Compensation Controls: Adjusts heating based on outdoor temperature for extra efficiency.
Pro Tip: Getting the Worcester smart controls they also include a built-in weather compensation using the internet, and when installed with the boiler they come with a guarantee the same length of the boiler its installed with.
Step 8: Get Professional Advice
Even with all this knowledge, speaking to a qualified heating engineer is crucial. They’ll assess your home, recommend the best boiler, and ensure it’s installed correctly.
At GGB Heating Solutions, we specialise in Worcester Bosch boiler installations and offer expert advice tailored to your home. Get in touch today for a free consultation and quote!
Final Thoughts: The Right Boiler = Warm Home & Lower Bills
Choosing the best boiler isn’t just about picking the cheapest option—it’s about finding the right fit for your home, needs, and budget. By considering your house size, efficiency, and hot water demand, you’ll make a choice that keeps you warm (without burning through your wallet).
Also, don’t be tricked into thinking that its just the boiler that you’re choosing. A great boiler installed badly is far worse than a bad boiler installed correctly.
Need expert help? Contact GGB Heating Solutions today for professional guidance and expert installation!