I'm thinking about replacing my back boiler with a combi boiler. The reasons are mainly about space.
The back boiler and associated gas fire take up a fair chunk of space in the lounge. The hot water tank takes up space which other people in the street have turned into a useful downstairs toilet. I do however have space in the utility room which I intend to site the new boiler.
I've read the combi-boiler section of the FAQ which was very helpful but I've still got a couple of questions.
- How do I calculate the size of boiler I need? I've seen calculators for conventional boilers but they state that they are not for combis.
- Can a new combi boiler be used with my existing radiators without too much trouble? I believe that my header tank will have to go but is it a relatively straight forward job apart from that? I don't intent to remove the back boiler straight away but just to disconnect the water and gas supply. As the job will involve ripping out a false chimney breast, I'll wait until the lounge is next due redecorating before taking it out.
- I'm thinking of buying a boiler with a built in hot water storage tank. Any comments on this? Any recommendations on manufacturers or are there any makes to stay clear of?
- I read somewhere on the net that from 2006, all new boilers in the UK will have to be condensing boilers. Is this true?
TIA,