As part of our plumbing and heating tips series, we look at new boiler installations.
When it comes to upgrading your heating system, few decisions are as important—or as potentially costly—as installing a new boiler. Whether your current boiler is showing signs of age or you’re simply looking to improve your home’s energy efficiency, selecting the right type of boiler is crucial. At P L Dodd Plumbing & Heating, your trusted gas engineer in Stoke on Trent, we’re here to help you make an informed choice.
In this article, we’ll cover the main types of boilers available in the UK, their pros and cons, and key considerations before installation. If you’re planning a boiler replacement or installation in Stoke or the surrounding areas, this guide is for you.
Why Consider a New Boiler Installation?
Modern boilers are far more efficient than older models. Replacing a dated system could save you hundreds of pounds per year on energy bills. You may also need a new boiler if:
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Your current boiler is over 15 years old
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Repairs are becoming more frequent and costly
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You’re extending or renovating your home
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Your hot water needs have changed
Types of Boilers Available in the UK
There are three main types of domestic boilers used in UK homes:
1. Combi Boilers (Combination Boilers)
Best for: Small to medium-sized homes with limited space and low to moderate hot water demand.
How it works: Combi boilers heat water directly from the mains when you turn on a tap. There’s no need for a separate hot water cylinder or cold water tank.
Pros:
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Compact and space-saving
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Instant hot water
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Energy efficient – no heat loss from a cylinder
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Typically cheaper to install
Cons:
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Struggles with high simultaneous hot water demand (e.g. two showers at once)
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Not ideal for larger homes with multiple bathrooms
2. System Boilers
Best for: Homes with more than one bathroom or higher hot water demand.
How it works: A system boiler uses a separate hot water cylinder but doesn’t need a cold water tank in the loft. It draws water directly from the mains.
Pros:
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Provides hot water to multiple taps simultaneously
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No need for a loft tank
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More efficient than traditional regular boilers
Cons:
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Takes up more space than a combi
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Hot water is not instant and limited by the size of the cylinder
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More complex installation
3. Regular Boilers (Conventional or Heat-Only Boilers)
Best for: Larger properties with traditional heating systems or where water pressure is low.
How it works: Regular boilers require both a hot water cylinder and a cold water storage tank, typically in the loft.
Pros:
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Can supply multiple bathrooms at once
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Compatible with older radiator systems
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Reliable for areas with poor mains pressure
Cons:
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Bulky and space-consuming
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Slower to deliver hot water
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More pipework and potentially higher installation costs
Additional Considerations Before Installing a New Boiler
Energy Efficiency Ratings
Look for boilers with an ErP rating of A or higher. This ensures maximum energy savings and environmental friendliness.
Smart Controls
Modern boilers can be paired with smart thermostats like Hive or Nest, allowing you to control your heating remotely and save on bills.
Gas Safe Registration
Always ensure your engineer is Gas Safe registered. At P L Dodd Plumbing & Heating, we’re fully certified to carry out boiler installations safely and legally across Stoke on Trent.
Location and Space
The size and layout of your property will influence the type of boiler you can install. We offer site surveys to help you choose the best fit.
Water Pressure
Your home’s mains water pressure might rule out certain boiler types, especially combis. We’ll test and advise accordingly.
Cost of a New Boiler Installation in Stoke on Trent
Prices vary based on the type of boiler, brand, and complexity of installation. On average:
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Combi boiler replacement: £1,800–£2,500
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System boiler installation: £2,000–£3,000
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Regular boiler replacement: £2,000–£3,500
We offer free quotes and honest advice—no pushy sales tactics.
Why Choose P L Dodd Plumbing & Heating?
We’re proud to be a local, family-run business with years of experience helping Stoke-on-Trent homeowners with all things plumbing and heating. As a reputable gas engineer in Stoke on Trent, our work is reliable, affordable, and always Gas Safe registered.
Our boiler services include:
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Boiler installation and replacement
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Central heating upgrades
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Annual servicing and maintenance
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Emergency boiler repairs
Final Thoughts
A new boiler is a big investment, but it’s one that can pay off in comfort, efficiency, and peace of mind. At P L Dodd Plumbing & Heating, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Whether you need a straightforward combi swap or a full system overhaul, you can count on expert advice and quality workmanship from your local gas engineer in Stoke on Trent.
