Best boiler

[GB]

I need an 18KW (or so) condensing boiler for a vented system - just a conventional system with a flue going out the wall. Curiously, it is not used for heating the hot water.

The plumber wants to fit a Potterton or Gloworm. I have always been very impressed with Vaillant, but the plumber told me that they only do combination or non-vented boilers. This seems to be untrue:

there any reason why he would be reluctant to use Vaillant?

Also, if I were to go along with his wish to use Potterton or Gloworm, which is a better make? Are they both crap?

Finally, am I right in thinking that 60,000 BTUs is the same as 18 KW?

[Tony Bryer]

Round here they are generally reckoned amongst the most reliable

Glow-worm is now part of Vaillant and their latest condensing boilers use Vaillant designs. Less fun though: one some Vaillants you can find out all sorts of fascinating trivia from the run data.

For all practical purposes, yes.

[Malcolm Race]

Joining in, my daughter has been told that Vaillant are 'too expensive' and she has been offered a Potterton or a (Basch?) Greenstar - anyone any views? I have a 2 year old Vaillant and am delightedwith it and the service from Vaillant to cure a ringing noise which occurred on startup on cold mornings.

Malcolm

[Bob Eager]

Tell you in a few weeks...the man is downstairs fitting a Greenstar as I type!

[PeterK]

> Is there any reason why he would be reluctant to use Vaillant?

Glow-worm are part of the Vaillant group! Another reason is, and I hope it's never the case, that what is suggested/recommended is influenced by manufacturers' promotions . Worcester are giving a free hat,fleece and flask with certain boilers (installers only!!!) alongside collect points for free bosch power tools.

PetreK

[Andy Hall]

Probably because he has never fitted one, his favourite merchant (read best discount and payment terms and best morning Mothers Union) doesn't stock them and Potterton have a promotion this month with puffy anoraks or trips to Eyebyeza.

Yes. Better to forget about BTUs and not to use any plumber still using them especially if they mix BTUs and kW in the same set of calculations and quotes.

[Andy Hall]

Yes. Suggest that she tells the guy to take a hike. The customer decides whether something is too expensive

So a good recommendation.....

[Ed Sirett]

Do read the BoilerChoiceFAQ quite a few of the issues are nearly addressed by it.

[Doctor Drivel]

>>> Is there any reason why he would be reluctant to use Vaillant?

This FAQ is 20 years out of date.

[Doctor Drivel]

> Is there any reason why he would be reluctant to use Vaillant?

The Glow Worm condensing boilers are made by Vaillant.

[Doctor Drivel]

>>> Is there any reason why he would be reluctant to use Vaillant?

Go for the Greenstar.

[Dave Plowman (News)]

But based on experience and sound principles rather than maker's claims and adverts like your 'advice'.

[Doctor Drivel]

Will you please eff off as you are an idiot.

[GB]

Thanks all for the advice. The plumber told me that the vented Vaillant is not available until mid-November. I settled for the Glow Worm.