Could we ask for some advice from those with combi boilers please

MoneySavingMole

You're best bet, is to write down what you need it for.

Answer the following questions;

How often do you use Hot Water? and how much, literally, in litres, do you anticipate you use, per day and per week?
How often do you use Central Heating? How often do you think you'd use radiators?
How much do you have to spend? Realistically?

If you answer the above with 'Not Much' then consider the green pill, or consider a cheap&cheerful system.

If you answer the above with 'A LOT!' then consider the red pill, speak to an expert about your requirements, and what realistic options are available to you, and consider them.

If you anticipate using a bath or two a day, and around 6-10 baths of water a week, consider an Unvented Cylinder, you really will benefit.
If you anticipate using a bathful every few days, and you 'shower at the gym' etc. then consider the combi, as you will not necessarily use the water you have heated to a beneficial amount.

Simples.

Cardew

BlueMoonMole wrote: »

If you have the money, and you're considering saving some, and having children, and staying in that lovely 4 bedroomed home for the next, 20+ years?

GO SOLAR!


I'd say consider Solar Thermal - bang some panels on your roof. Put an unvented HW cylinder in your loft, with a system boiler feeding radiators and giving you back-up heating if your HW is not good enough.

You are joking of course? After all this is a Money Saving website.

Have you read the trial report commissioned by the Government - link in the 'green' forum.

8 systems tested(both types) in Southern UK; average annual production was approx 1,000kWh - virtually all in summer. Having gas with a new efficient boiler that will save about £30 a year.

You also have to use daytime electricity for the pump and electronics.

Most solar thermal firms seem to charge what the market will bear - ask any Trading Standards Office or try to watch some of the 'Watchdog' type programmes.

Costs will be in the thousands of pounds.

Just on the great combi V cylinder debate, for me the HW cylinder wins hands down - I have both - the combi in an annex.

The low flow rates in winter for a combi, and problems with multiple use are the biggest drawback. With a cylinder you can have an airing cupboard.