Last updated: 19th June, 2024
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A combination boiler, commonly known as a combi boiler, is an advanced heating unit that provides both central heating and hot water from a single unit.
Choosing the right shower for a combi boiler can make all the difference in your daily routine. These boilers are favoured for their ability to provide high-pressure water and instant heating, ensuring you never run out of hot water.
The thermostatic mixer shower is regarded as the best option for combi boilers because it blends hot and cold water to maintain a stable temperature, even if other appliances are used simultaneously.
Combi boilers are compact and efficient, ideal for homes where space and energy consumption are concerns. They directly heat water from the mains when you turn on the tap, eliminating the need for a separate hot water tank.
This instant service makes them perfect for pairing with modern shower systems that require stable water pressure and consistent temperature control.
Modern advancements have also introduced digital and electric showers, which are great alternatives depending on your needs and budgets.
Digital showers offer customisable settings and can be controlled remotely, while electric showers are a good fit if you want a standalone unit independent of your home's heating system. With various options available, it’s important to choose a system that suits your preferences and home setup perfectly.
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A combination boiler, commonly known as a 'combi boiler', is an advanced heating unit that provides both central heating and hot water from a single unit. It offers efficiency and reliability, making it a popular choice for homes in the UK.
Combination boilers serve dual purposes—heating water for domestic use and supplying central heating to a building. Unlike traditional boilers, they do not require a separate hot water cylinder or cold water storage tank. Instead, they heat water directly from the mains, ensuring a constant supply of hot water on demand.
These boilers are typically compact and wall-mounted, which makes them suitable for homes with limited space. Installation is simpler compared to other systems because fewer components are needed.
A combi boiler is often more energy-efficient because it heats water only when required, avoiding the energy loss associated with storing hot water.
Energy Efficiency: Combi boilers are known for high efficiency, which can result in lower energy bills. They provide hot water directly from the mains, reducing the need for heating a large tank of water.
Space Saving: Given their compact size, combi boilers are ideal for smaller homes or flats. They take up much less room compared to traditional boilers which need separate water storage tanks.
High Pressure: Since combi boilers use water from the mains, the hot water pressure is usually higher. This feature is particularly useful for showers and baths.
Ease of Maintenance: With fewer parts, such as pumps or tanks, maintenance and annual servicing are generally simpler and potentially cheaper.
Combi boilers are designed to work extremely efficiently with the mains water supply, providing high water pressure for showers and taps. This high pressure is a key benefit and ensures a better experience, especially in homes with multiple bathrooms.
Unlike traditional systems that may struggle with fluctuating pressure, combi boilers maintain consistent water pressure even when multiple outlets are in use.
Selection of the right combi boiler model is crucial for optimising water pressure and overall performance. It is advisable to consult with a heating engineer to ensure compatibility and efficiency in specific setups.
Choosing the best shower for a combi boiler system can enhance your bathroom experience. Each shower type offers different benefits, ensuring reliability, performance, and convenience.
Mixer showers are a popular choice for combi boilers. These showers mix hot and cold water from your home's supply to achieve the desired temperature. The thermostatic mixer shower, in particular, is highly recommended. It maintains a consistent temperature, even if other household appliances use water simultaneously. This feature makes it ideal for family homes.
Manual mixer showers, while less advanced, still offer good performance.
Pros:
Steady temperature control
Direct connection to the boiler
Cons:
Installation may be complex
Potential pressure fluctuations
Overall, mixer showers provide a reliable and comfortable showering experience.
Electric showers work differently from mixer showers. They have an internal heating element that heats cold water directly. This type is useful in homes where hot water supply may be inconsistent or limited. They do not rely on the boiler for hot water, making them a versatile option.
Pros:
Independent of boiler system
Consistent hot water supply
Cons:
Potentially higher electricity costs
May need a higher electrical capacity
Electric showers are effective in maintaining a reliable hot water supply, regardless of other water usage in the home.
Digital showers offer advanced technology with precise control. They blend hot and cold water using an electronic thermostat, ensuring steady temperatures.
Key Features:
Remote control operation
User presets for temperature and flow
Pros:
Accurate temperature control
Modern and stylish designs
Cons:
Potentially higher installation costs
Requires power supply
Digital showers are perfect for those who appreciate convenience and modern features in their shower system.
A power shower combines a mixer shower system with a pump to increase water flow. They are especially beneficial in homes with low water pressure. These showers can significantly improve the showering experience by providing a stronger flow.
Pros:
Enhanced water pressure
Ideal for low-pressure systems
Cons:
Higher water consumption
May not be suitable for all plumbing systems
Power showers are an excellent choice for homes that need a boost in water pressure while using a combi boiler.
A mixer shower blends hot and cold water for a pleasant shower experience. It works well with combi boilers.
Features to Look For:
Thermostatic Control: Keeps water temperature stable, even if someone else uses water.
Ease of Use: Clear controls for temperature and flow.
Good Build Quality: Durable materials ensure a long lifespan.
Top Choices:
Triton Dene Cool Touch Bar: An affordable option that's safe and easy to use.
Mira Excel: Known for its temperature control and durability.
Grohe Precision Joy: Offers precise water temperature with stylish design.
Consistent Temperature: Thermostatic control prevents sudden changes in water temperature.
Direct Mains Connection: Benefits from the mains water pressure of a combi boiler.
Easy Installation: Often straightforward to install in most bathrooms.
When choosing a mixer shower, it's essential to think about the water pressure, the design of your bathroom, and your budget. Select a model compatible with your existing plumbing system.
When installing a shower with a combi boiler, it's essential to assess water pressure and flow rate, choose the right shower valves, and understand the requirements for system boilers.
Water pressure and flow rate are crucial for a satisfying shower experience. Measure your home's water pressure to ensure it meets the combi boiler's requirements. High-pressure water systems generally provide a better shower experience.
Flow rate indicates how much water comes out of the shower head per minute. Typical showers need a flow rate of 12-15 litres per minute. Low water pressure can result in weak water flow, leading to an unsatisfying shower.
It's important to address any issues with water pressure. Sometimes reducing the pipe size can help improve pressure.
The type of shower valve you choose impacts your shower's performance. Thermostatic mixer valves are ideal for combi boilers. They blend hot and cold water to provide a consistent temperature.
Digital showers are another option, allowing precise control over water temperature and flow rate. They use a digital panel or remote control for adjustments.
Electric showers are less dependent on your boiler but require a high-pressure system to function best. Consulting a plumber can help determine the suitable valve for your system.
Though the focus is on combi boilers, it's useful to understand the basic requirements if you ever switch to a system boiler. Unlike combi boilers, system boilers store hot water in a cylinder, which may affect shower flow rates.
A system boiler needs a high-pressure water system to ensure powerful showers. If the pressure is weak, installing a pump might be necessary.
Always ensure the hot pipe is correctly sized, typically around 15mm in diameter. This can influence flow rates and temperature consistency.
Understanding these considerations ensures a high-performing shower suitable for your combi boiler setup.
Improving the performance of a shower combined with a combi boiler involves careful management of temperature control, maintaining steady water temperature, and adjusting for different pressure systems. It also requires an understanding of efficiency and cost considerations.
Temperature control is crucial for an enjoyable shower experience. Thermostatic mixer showers are ideal with combi boilers as they mix hot and cold water to maintain a consistent temperature.
This type of shower has a built-in thermostat that reacts quickly to changes in water supply. If someone uses a tap elsewhere in the house, the thermostat adjusts to keep the shower temperature stable.
Choosing showers with advanced thermostatic controls ensures safer and more comfortable use. Digital showers also provide precise temperature settings and ease of use.
Combi boilers heat water on demand, which means there's always hot water available. To maintain a consistent temperature, it's important to have a well-calibrated shower valve.
A good quality valve prevents sudden temperature fluctuations, which can be caused by others using water in the house. Regular maintenance of shower valves and boiler systems helps avoid these issues.
Installing anti-scald devices can offer extra protection from sudden temperature changes, enhancing safety.
High-pressure systems, typical with combi boilers, usually ensure a strong water flow. If the pressure is too high or low, adjustments may be needed.
For high-pressure systems, flow restrictors or pressure-balancing valves can help manage water flow and preserve efficiency. Low-pressure systems, on the other hand, may benefit from installing a shower pump to boost water flow.
Gravity-fed systems, which rely on water tanks, might not pair well with combi boilers but solutions like boosting pumps can help achieve better performance.
Combi boilers are generally energy efficient as they provide instant hot water without storing it in a tank. This feature makes them cost-effective over time and avoids the energy loss associated with heating and storing water in a tank.
Regular servicing of both the boiler and the shower system ensures optimal efficiency. Choosing energy-efficient showerheads can further reduce water and heating costs.
Balancing between initial costs and long-term savings is crucial. Higher-end showers with advanced controls may have higher upfront costs but can save money through improved efficiency and performance. Regular checks for pipes freezing in winter also maintain efficiency and prevent damage.
Ensuring that the shower head and system are kept clean and free of limescale helps in getting the best performance from both the shower and the combi boiler.
Advanced shower technologies have revolutionised how users interact with their showers, offering enhanced user experience, smart control, and robust safety features. These innovations cater to different needs, whether personal comfort, safety for family homes, or efficient water usage.
Smart showers offer precise control over water temperature and flow rates. Digital showers use electronic controls to set and maintain desired temperatures, eliminating any fluctuation. Users can programme presets for different times of day or personal preferences, making the showering experience seamless.
Mains water supply integration ensures consistent pressure. In busy households, thermostatic mixer valves maintain a stable temperature even when other water outlets are used. Smart showers can connect to apps, allowing users to control their shower remotely. This technology is particularly beneficial if you want to pre-heat the shower before stepping in.
Voice control has become a prominent feature in advanced showers. Showers integrated with voice assistants like Alexa or Google Home allow users to manage settings hands-free. For instance, one could say, "Set shower to 38 degrees," and the shower would adjust accordingly.
Digital integrations enable showers to connect with other smart home devices, enhancing the overall smart home ecosystem. These showers can provide feedback on water usage, helping users conserve water and reduce utility bills. Voice control not only adds convenience but also creates a more accessible showering experience for people with mobility issues.
Safety is paramount in modern shower systems. Many digital showers come with built-in safety features to prevent scalding. These showers have maximum temperature settings that can be programmed to ensure water does not exceed a safe temperature.
Thermostatic technology is crucial for families, particularly with young children or elderly members, as it maintains a consistent, safe water temperature. Showers must comply with local safety regulations, ensuring devices meet specific standards for thermal comfort and user protection.
Additionally, some advanced showers come with anti-slip surfaces and easy-to-use controls for individuals with limited dexterity. Motion sensors to detect falls and automatic shutoff features also contribute significantly to creating a safer shower environment.
When choosing a shower for a combi boiler, it's crucial to consider both environmental impact and efficiency. These factors ensure not only a sustainable choice but also cost savings on utility bills.
Eco-friendly shower heads play a significant role in reducing the carbon footprint of a household. By using water-efficient fixtures, households can lower their water usage without compromising on comfort.
Eco showers feature technologies like aerated showerheads that mix water with air, providing a satisfying shower experience while using less water. This reduced water usage means the combi boiler works less, saving energy and lowering your carbon footprint.
Balancing water usage with energy consumption is essential for achieving efficiency with a combi boiler system. High-pressure showers from combi boilers provide an enjoyable shower, but it’s important to choose features that optimise water and energy use.
Water-saving modes in showers reduce the amount of hot water required, decreasing the energy needed to heat it. Additionally, energy-efficient showers often include precise temperature controls, ensuring that no extra energy is wasted in heating water unnecessarily.
Combi boilers are well-suited for sustainable homes due to their energy efficiency. They provide hot water on demand, eliminating the need for a separate hot water tank, which reduces energy usage.
By providing instant hot water, combi boilers prevent heat loss that typically occurs with storage tanks. Compact and efficient, they also save space and resources, aligning with the principles of sustainable living.
Choosing the right shower for a combi boiler involves looking for energy-efficient options and water-saving features. These choices help build a greener household that is mindful of its environmental impact while maintaining efficiency and comfort.
Choosing an alternative to a combi boiler depends on various factors such as budget, efficiency, and maintenance needs. Here are some popular options:
System boilers are a reliable option with a built-in hot water cylinder, which makes them well-suited for homes with higher hot water demands. They can supply hot water to multiple outlets simultaneously without a loss in pressure.
System boilers are typically cost-effective due to their high efficiency. They also come with a warranty for peace of mind. Maintenance is generally straightforward, but annual servicing is recommended to ensure optimal performance. They are ideal for larger homes or properties with more than one bathroom.
Heat-only boilers, also called regular or conventional boilers, are older but still effective. They require a separate hot water cylinder and cold water storage tank. This setup can store a large volume of hot water, making it ideal for homes with multiple bathrooms.
Although initial costs may be higher due to the need for additional tanks and parts, heat-only boilers are efficient and economical for larger houses. They often come with long warranty periods. Maintenance involves checking various components, including the cylinder and tanks, which can be more extensive than system boilers.
Heat pumps are an innovative and energy-efficient alternative that can extract heat from the ground or air. Ground source heat pumps use underground pipes to transfer heat, while air source heat pumps extract heat from outside air.
Heat pumps are highly efficient and environmentally friendly, significantly reducing energy bills. They can be more expensive to install compared to traditional boilers, but government incentives and programmes often offset these costs.
Maintenance is low but essential to ensure energy efficiency. Heat pumps also come with warranties that can offer additional security.
They are a great option for eco-conscious households looking to reduce their carbon footprint.
Boilers can be a daunting purchase for many people as they’re an appliance with a lot of responsibility, providing heat for you and your family is something you want to get right. Boilers aren’t exactly a quickly disposable item either, potentially lasting you a decade.
Effectively, new boiler cost can be split into two segments: the first is the actual boiler itself (unit price), and the second is the cost of the boiler being installed (set up) in your property by an expert engineer.
Here at iHeat, we remove all of this undue stress and make the decision making process of upgrading to a new central heating system, as easy as possible.
New boiler costs can vary depending on a number of factors including their brand, model, fuel, output, warranty, labour and boiler installation type. Typically a new boiler will cost between £1,845 and £3,500, below is a list of average boiler installations offered by iHeat (guide only).
Installation Type | Price (inc VAT) | |
Combi to combi swap | £1,845 | |
System to combi conversion | £2,499 | |
New boiler install | £2,899 | |
Back boiler to a combi | £3,299 | |
System to system | £1,945 |
The thermostatic mixer shower is often the best choice for use with a combi boiler. It blends hot and cold water, ensuring a steady temperature, even if someone else uses hot water in the house. These showers are designed to maintain a constant temperature, which enhances comfort and safety by preventing sudden temperature fluctuations. Additionally, thermostatic mixer showers are known for their reliability and ease of use, making them a popular option for many households.
Yes, you can run a mixer shower from a combi boiler. These showers mix hot and cold water directly from the boiler, giving consistent water temperature and pressure. Combi boilers are efficient and provide hot water on demand, which means you won’t need a separate hot water tank. This setup is ideal for smaller homes where space is limited. The combination of a combi boiler and a mixer shower ensures you get a powerful and satisfying shower experience.
To make your shower more powerful, consider installing a high-pressure shower head. This type of shower head is designed to optimize water flow, providing a more invigorating shower. Additionally, check your boiler's settings and ensure it is working efficiently. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning or servicing the boiler, can help maintain optimal performance and water pressure. You might also consider upgrading your boiler if it is older or not performing well.
Mira and Aqualisa are known for reliability. They have a wide range of models that work well with combi boilers, offering durability and consistent performance. Mira showers are renowned for their advanced technology and robust construction, while Aqualisa is praised for its innovative designs and user-friendly features. Both brands provide excellent customer support and warranties, ensuring peace of mind and long-term satisfaction.
Thermostatic mixer showers and digital showers generally last the longest. They are built with sturdy materials and have fewer electronic components that can fail over time. Thermostatic mixers are particularly durable because they use robust valves and are less prone to wear and tear. Digital showers, on the other hand, offer precise control over temperature and flow, and their advanced design often includes protective features that enhance longevity.
Triton mixer showers are well-regarded for their quality and reliability. They offer good value for money and perform well with combi boilers, providing a steady and comfortable shower experience. Triton showers are known for their easy installation and maintenance, and they come in a variety of styles to suit different bathroom decors. Customers frequently praise Triton for its dependable performance and affordable prices.
Your shower might go cold due to issues with the diverter valve in the boiler. The valve may be malfunctioning or clogged with limescale, affecting the hot water supply. Regular maintenance can help prevent this problem. Ensuring that your boiler is serviced annually can help identify and rectify issues before they lead to a cold shower. Additionally, checking and cleaning your showerhead and plumbing connections can improve water flow and temperature consistency.
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