THE HEART OF YOUR SYSTEM
Boilers
A boiler is the beating heart of any central heating system, pumping warmth and hot water throughout your home exactly when you need it. From crisp winter mornings to relaxing evening baths, a reliable boiler keeps life comfortable and effortless. Whether you're replacing an ageing unit or upgrading to smarter, more efficient heat, understanding your options is the first step towards a cosy home.
In the UK, boilers power over 85 percent of domestic heating systems, so choosing the right type can save you money on energy bills and reduce your carbon footprint. By the end of this page you'll know exactly how each boiler style works, what it costs to run, and which one suits your home best, with no jargon or guesswork.
Types of Boilers
Below are the three main boiler styles you'll find across the UK. For each, you'll see how it works, its advantages and disadvantages, plus which household scenarios it fits best.
Combination (Combi) Boilers
- Instant hot water whenever you turn on the tap
- Compact size, freeing up cupboard or loft space
- Lower installation cost (fewer pipes and tanks)
- Flow rate can drop if two showers run simultaneously
- Not ideal for very large homes with multiple bathrooms
Sealed System Boilers
- Consistent hot water flow to multiple outlets at once
- No loft tank required, reducing heat loss
- Easier to install than conventional boilers
- Requires space for a hot water cylinder
- Cylinder can lose heat over time without additional insulation
Conventional Boilers
- Excellent for traditional homes with existing tanks
- Can supply hot water to multiple taps and showers with strong pressure
- Compatible with older central heating systems and gravity-fed supplies
- Requires loft space for the cold water tank
- More pipework and tanks can mean higher installation costs
Brands We Stock
At TVPS, we only supply boilers from trusted and proven manufacturers, so you can count on long-lasting performance and support if you ever need it.
UK Grants and Incentives
If you're upgrading your heating system, it's worth exploring whether you qualify for any financial support through a government scheme. The Boiler Upgrade Scheme, for example, offers grants to help cover the cost of installing more energy-efficient heating systems, including certain boiler alternatives like heat pumps.
These schemes change from time to time, so for the most up-to-date and accurate information, including eligibility criteria and how to apply, please visit the official GOV.UK page.
Installation and Maintenance Tips
While it's tempting to focus just on the boiler itself, proper installation and ongoing maintenance are just as important for long-term performance and safety.
Installation
All gas boilers in the UK must be installed by a Gas Safe-registered engineer. This isn't only a legal requirement; it also gives you peace of mind that the work has been carried out correctly and safely. Always ask to see your installer's Gas Safe ID card before any work begins.
If you're replacing an old system, a qualified installer will also assess things like your existing pipework, the position of the flue, and your water pressure. These checks ensure that your new boiler is set up to perform efficiently right from the start.
Maintenance
A boiler should be serviced once a year. Regular servicing helps catch issues early, keeps your warranty valid, and ensures your system is running efficiently. An annual service usually includes checking the pressure, cleaning internal components, and testing safety features.
For extra protection, particularly in hard water areas, it's worth considering a magnetic system filter or a scale reducer. These simple additions help to extend the life of your boiler and reduce the chances of a breakdown in the future.