Selecting the right boiler for a new build can have a lasting impact on energy efficiency, comfort, and long-term costs. The best boiler for a 4-bedroom house is powerful enough to meet higher heating and hot water demands without driving up energy bills. In this guide, we’ll cover the best types of boilers suited for a 4-bedroom home, along with important factors to consider, and highlight some top models available on the market today.
Key Takeaways
- Choose a high-efficiency boiler to reduce long-term heating costs.
- Combi boilers save space, but system boilers may be better for high water demands.
- Size your boiler correctly to ensure efficient heating for a 4-bedroom house.
- Look for features like smart controls and a long warranty for added value.
- Getting quotes from Gas Safe engineers ensures safe and professional installation.
What Size Boiler Is Needed For A 4-Bed House?
As with everything, it fully depends on your home’s unique characteristics. However, before diving into the different factors that will be decisive in your final selection, it is firstly important to highlight the fact the boiler size is measured in kilowatts (output) rather than the boiler’s physical size.
Having said this, the size a 4-bed house will require will depend on the number of bedrooms, and bathrooms, your hot water and heating needs, how well insulated your house is, location and most importantly, the number of radiators.
There are different types of boiler, each more appropriate than the other depending on the house. In this article, we have come up with a list of some combi, system and regular boilers that may be suitable for your 4-bedroom house.
Combi Boilers
Combi boilers are a popular choice for new builds as they offer several advantages, including that their compact design allows them to save space and they can be installed in various locations, making them suitable for smaller homes or those with a limited amount of space.
This is due to the fact that these boilers provide a constant supply of hot water at mains pressure, without the need for a separate hot water cylinder in the attic.
In addition, they are highly efficient in comparison to other types of boilers, which can result not only in added comfort but also in saving money on your energy bills. Some top combi boiler brands include:
- Navien NCBH Combi
- Viessmann ecoTEC Plus Combi
- Worcestershire Bosch Greenstar 30SI Gold
- Ideal Boilers Maxim
- Honeywell EcoPro
- Baxi
Regular Boilers
Regular boilers are more common in older properties, but they can also be a suitable option for new builds in certain situations. These boilers are particularly efficient at storing hot water in a cylinder, making them a good choice if your water supply is poor or you have a large household.
Some top regular boiler brands include:
- Yondana
- Eccotec
- Marey
- Chaffoteaux
- Giant Gas Boilers
- Vokera
- Worcestershire Bosch
- Vaillant
- Viessmann
- Glow-Fish
- Baxi
System Boilers
System boilers are a good option for homes with more than one bathroom and are compatible with solar thermal systems. They are similar to combi boilers but have a storage cylinder, which helps them provide more capacity.
Some top system boiler brands include:
- Honeywell
- Navien
- Viessmann
- Marey
- Giant Gas Boilers
- Worcestershire Bosch
- Vaillant
- Glow-Fish
- Baxi
Boiler Prices and Cost Savings
The cost of a new boiler can vary greatly depending on the type and brand you decide to choose. Combi boilers are generally the least expensive, with prices starting at around £900. Regular and system boilers will be more expensive, with prices ranging from £1,500 to £2,500.
Nevertheless, even if it’s true that regular and system boilers are more expensive, these boilers can be better options for larger households than combi boilers, since they can provide hot water for multiple bathrooms simultaneously due to their higher heating capacity.
Combi boilers can only heat water on demand, due to their lack of a hot water cylinder or a cold water storage tank. Hence, each type has its advantages, and it will be up to you to decide which option suits your 4-bed house the best.
All in all, installing a new boiler can save you up to £410 a year on your energy bills. For instance, the Warm Home Discount can provide additional support for homeowners until March 31, 2024.
Boiler Installation and Maintenance
Approximate Boiler Sizes in Houses (CH Output) | Combi Boilers | System Boilers | Regular Boilers |
Up to 10 radiators (Up to 4 bedrooms) | 24-27 kW | 9-18 kW | 9-18 kW |
10-15 radiators (4 to 5 bedrooms) | 28-34 kW | 18-26 kW | 18-26 kW |
15-20 radiators (5-7 bedrooms) | 35-42 kW | 26-40 kW | 26-40 kW |
It’s essential to have your boiler installed correctly to ensure optimal performance and safety. The cost of installation can vary depending on the complexity of the installation and the specific boiler model. It’s recommended to get at least three quotes from local Gas Safe registered engineers to ensure a fair price and a professional service.
Regular maintenance is crucial for keeping your boiler in good working order and preventing unexpected breakdowns. The cost of boiler maintenance can vary depending on the type of boiler and the specific service tasks required. It’s recommended to have your boiler serviced at least once a year, with a landlord legally required to have an annual gas safety check if they rent out a property with gas appliances.
Boiler Financing and Grants
There are several financing options available for new boilers, including 0% finance and low-cost finance plans. You can also take advantage of government grants, such as the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS), which offers financial support for the installation of renewable heating systems.
Conclusion
Choosing the best boiler for your 4-bedroom new build in the UK depends on various factors, such as your hot water and heating needs, the size of your house, including the number of radiators, overall insulation and the location, for example. Combi boilers offer space-saving convenience, while system boilers provide robust support for higher water demands. By prioritising energy efficiency, selecting the right size, and considering smart features, homeowners can ensure their boiler meets current and future needs efficiently and comfortably.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size boiler is best for a 4-bedroom home?
Typically, a 30-35kW combi or a 30-40kW system boiler.
Are combi boilers suitable for large families?
Combi boilers are ideal for smaller or medium households; for high hot water demands, a system boiler is preferable.
How much does a new boiler cost for a new build?
On average, between £500 and £1,500 for installation, with the boiler itself ranging from £1,000 to £2,500.
Which type of boiler is the most energy-efficient?
Condensing combi and system boilers are among the most efficient, reaching over 90% efficiency.
Can I install underfloor heating with a system boiler?
Yes, system boilers are compatible with underfloor heating, providing uniform warmth throughout the home.