Regular boilers are a type of condensing boiler, you may find regular boilers are also referred to as “traditional” or “conventional” boilers.
If you are replacing an older model of boiler, the chances are that you will have a regular boiler. A typical conventional condensing boiler system incorporates a boiler and extended controls, a feed and expansion cistern, and a copper hot water cylinder (usually in the airing cupboard) which is often fed by a cold water storage cistern located in the loft.
Regular boilers will enjoy all the energy efficiency characteristics of all the other condensing boiler systems but might take more space in your home. Regular boiler systems will also have more components but tend to have a less complicated design.
Loft space requirements
The header or feeder tank for the central heating system will be in the loft space. The idea is to take water from your cold water system and store it in a small expansion tank. This expansion tank is then used to continually feed water to your central heating system when any is lost. Although the expansion tank is small you may find that this takes space in your loft which you need for other purposes, or complicates any plans you may have for converting the loft space into a living area.
Airing Cupboard space
The hot water created by the system is stored in a hot water cylinder often located in an upstairs airing cupboard. This is then used to provide domestic hot water through your hot water taps when required. Again, whilst this is no issue to many families, you may find that you would welcome the additional storage space if you were able to dispense with the hot water cylinder.
Advantages
The advantages of regular boilers are that the hot water flow rate will tend to be higher than that with combi boilers as the hot water is stored within the hot water cylinder ready for use rather than being heated on demand. If you find that your family often have several hot water taps on at the same time, say a shower running in the bathroom and hot water running in the kitchen, then this stored hot water can be an advantage.
Another matter to consider is that a combi boiler needs a minimum water pressure from the mains to deliver your hot water flow, and this may not be available in all areas.
Disadvantages of regular boilers
In addition to the storage issue running costs can be higher for regular boilers than for combi boiler systems as there are heat losses throughout the day from the hot water cylinder or boiler pipework although insulation will reduce this loss.
Is a Regular Boiler the right type of boiler for you?
From the above you will se that there are advantages and disadvantages to installing or replacing a regular boiler and the right choice will depend upon your circumstances. This site contains information on all the boiler types and options, to help you select the right boiler for you.
WGS can visit your home to assess which type of boiler is right for you and to provide you with a firm quotation for a new boiler. This visit is free and carries no obligations, it is designed to provide you with an accurate quotation for the right boiler for your home.
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