Potterton Combi 100 : Keep or replace

daveyboy456

Hi

I've read lots on this topic on the boards and thanks to all that have contributed. Here's my current situation :

• 5 bedroom house, total of 17 radiators, 2 bathrooms
• Potterton Combi 100 - can't find the rating on SEDBUK but believe similar to Puma 100 - so about 24 kW
• Had fan, pump and diverter valve replaced under boiler insurance in winter 2010
• System recently powerflushed and TRVs fitted

It's quite clear that the current boiler is not powerful enough for all the radiators, let alone when the hot water's running. Maybe I can live with this one more winter now we have the TRVs - I'm seeking opinions as to the best course of action here. The fact the current boiler is overworked / underpowered - could this be costing me unnecessarily above and beyond the difference in new/old efficiency ( this is about 15% from SEDBUK I reckon so around 10 years payoff)?

I've got a quote of £2100 to upgrade to the 37 CDI which is not too bad.

What are the expert views - upgrade or keep as is?

Thanks in advance!

gas4you

Normally I would say keep your boiler, but as it is a Potterton, then get rid.

daveyboy456

Thanks gas4you. Any particular reason why?

gas4you

Personal experience, these boilers have been nothing but a PITA for me to work on.

daveyboy456

Given I had the fan, pump and diverter replaced under insurance and still have the cover, still worth the upgrade? Is there much more to go wrong?

Must admit I am inclined to go with upgrade. What would you suggest for boiler? Worcester Bosch or vaillant I am considering. Either 42cdi or the 37kw vaillant.

Help really appreciated!

Rus13

If you have had the system inspected by a RGI and he recommends upgrading then I would say that's the best course of action, so long as you trust him.

I would get at least 3 quotes in first though so you can get more expert opinion on what's best and then it puts you in a better position to make the right choice.

Both the WB and Vaillant's are good boilers, installers will have their preference but I don't think you can go wrong with an ecotec.