When it comes to heating your home and providing hot water, the choice between a combi boiler and a conventional boiler can have a significant impact on your energy bills. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the details of why a combi boiler is generally cheaper to run compared to a conventional boiler.
Combi Boiler Efficiency
Energy Savings
Combi boilers are renowned for their energy efficiency, which translates to substantial savings on your annual energy bills. According to a study by the Energy Saving Trust, combi boilers can save homeowners up to 30% on their energy bills, which equates to around £975 per year for the average household.
Condensing Technology
By law, all combi boilers sold in the UK must be condensing boilers, which means they are designed to extract more heat from the combustion process. This results in an efficiency rating of over 90%, making them significantly more efficient than older, non-condensing boilers.
On-Demand Heating
Combi boilers heat water on demand, rather than storing it in a tank. This eliminates the energy loss associated with maintaining a constant water temperature in a storage tank, further contributing to their efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
Conventional Boiler Efficiency
Higher Running Costs
Conventional boilers, which include system and regular boilers, tend to have higher running costs compared to combi boilers. This is due to the more complex system required to heat and store hot water, which can result in greater energy consumption and higher utility bills.
Energy Loss
Conventional boilers store hot water in a tank, which can lose energy over time, reducing the overall efficiency of the system. This energy loss can lead to higher energy consumption and, consequently, higher running costs.
Cost Comparison
Boiler Costs
When it comes to the initial purchase price, combi boilers are generally more affordable than conventional boilers. Combi boiler prices typically range from £500 to £2,000, while conventional boilers can cost up to £2,750.
Installation Costs
The installation costs for combi boilers are also lower compared to conventional boilers. A like-for-like replacement of a combi boiler can cost around £1,700, while a system boiler replacement can cost £1,950 and a regular boiler replacement can cost up to £3,500.
Other Factors
Space and Complexity
Combi boilers are more compact and have fewer components than conventional boilers, making them easier to install and maintain. This can result in lower installation and maintenance costs over the lifetime of the boiler.
Water Supply
Combi boilers provide hot water directly from the mains supply, eliminating the need for a separate hot water storage tank. This can lead to cleaner and safer drinking water, as well as reducing the risk of legionella bacteria growth, which can be a concern with conventional boiler systems.
Conclusion
In summary, the combination of higher energy efficiency, lower running costs, and more affordable installation make combi boilers a more cost-effective choice compared to conventional boilers for many households. By understanding the key differences between these two boiler types, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your home’s heating and hot water needs, as well as your budget.
Reference:
– Energy Saving Trust – Combi Boilers
– Which? – Combi Boiler vs. Conventional Boiler
– The Spruce – Combi Boiler vs. Conventional Boiler