Conventional systems
Conventional boilers, also known as regular or traditional boilers, have been a staple in UK homes for decades. These systems are particularly well-suited for older properties and homes with high hot water demands.
Key benefits of conventional boilers include:
- Excellent for properties with multiple bathrooms
- Ideal for areas with low water pressure
- Compatible with older radiator systems
- Ability to provide hot water to multiple taps simultaneously
- Can be used with immersion heaters for backup
While they require more space than combi or system boilers, conventional boilers offer reliability and familiarity, especially in homes with existing traditional heating setups.
Traditional Heating System
Understanding the components of a conventional boiler system is key to appreciating its benefits:
- Boiler: Heats water for central heating and hot water cylinder
- Cold water tank: Usually located in the loft, feeds water to the hot water cylinder
- Hot water cylinder: Stores hot water for use throughout the home
- Feed and expansion tank: Maintains the correct level of water in the central heating system
How this system differs from combi and system boilers:
- Requires more space due to additional tanks
- Operates on an open-vented system rather than a sealed system
- Can maintain hot water supply even if the boiler malfunctions (using immersion heater)
This traditional setup, while more complex, offers reliability and is often the best choice for older properties with existing pipework.
Suitability for Older Properties
Conventional boilers are often the ideal choice for older homes, particularly those built before the 1970s. Here’s why:
Compatibility with existing pipework and radiators:
- Works well with larger bore pipes common in older homes
- Suitable for traditional radiator systems
- Can maintain lower pressure, reducing stress on old pipework
Benefits of replacing an old conventional boiler with a new one:
- Improved energy efficiency (up to 90% efficiency in modern models)
- Enhanced control systems for better temperature management
- Reduced carbon footprint
- Potential for significant energy bill savings
By choosing a new conventional boiler for an older property, you can maintain the integrity of your existing system while enjoying the benefits of modern heating technology.
Low Water Pressure Solutions
One of the key advantages of conventional boilers is their ability to work effectively in areas with low mains water pressure.
How conventional boilers work with gravity-fed systems:
- Cold water tank in the loft provides natural pressure
- Height difference between tank and taps creates adequate flow
- System can be designed to maximize available pressure
Options for improving water pressure:
- Installing a shower pump for better shower performance
- Using larger bore pipes to reduce friction
- Optimizing pipe routes to minimize pressure loss
- Considering a thermal store system for higher pressure hot water
With a conventional boiler system, even homes in low-pressure areas can enjoy reliable hot water supply to all outlets.
Large Hot Water Capacity
Conventional boilers excel in providing large volumes of hot water, making them ideal for households with high demand.
Benefits for households with high hot water usage:
- Ability to run multiple showers or taps simultaneously
- Quick replenishment of hot water supply
- Can cope with peak demand times without loss of performance
Customizing tank size for specific needs:
- Small (90-120 litres): Suitable for smaller households
- Medium (120-180 litres): Ideal for average family homes
- Large (180-300 litres): Best for large families or luxury properties with multiple bathrooms
Axiom Heat can help you determine the perfect tank size based on your household’s specific hot water requirements, ensuring you never run short.
Integration with Existing Systems
One of the major advantages of conventional boilers is their compatibility with a wide range of existing heating systems.
Compatibility with older radiators and pipework:
- Works well with cast iron radiators common in period properties
- Can operate at lower pressures, suitable for older pipework
- Minimal disruption when replacing an existing conventional boiler
Potential for zoned heating setups:
- Separate programmer for heating and hot water
- Possibility to create different heating zones within the home
- Ideal for larger properties where different areas have varying heating needs
By choosing a conventional boiler, you can often upgrade your heating system without the need for extensive alterations to your existing setup.
Energy Efficiency Improvements
While conventional boilers have been around for a long time, modern versions have seen significant improvements in energy efficiency.
Modern conventional boiler efficiency vs. older models:
- New models can achieve up to 90% efficiency
- Condensing technology recovers heat from waste gases
- Improved insulation reduces standby heat loss
- Advanced controls allow for more precise temperature management
Options for insulating tanks and pipes:
- Factory-insulated hot water cylinders minimize heat loss
- Additional cylinder jackets can further improve efficiency
- Insulating exposed pipework reduces system heat loss
- Lagging cold water tanks prevents freezing in winter
These improvements mean that choosing a modern conventional boiler can lead to substantial energy savings compared to older models.
Open-Vented System Considerations
Conventional boilers operate on an open-vented system, which has some unique characteristics and requirements.
Explanation of open-vented systems:
- System is open to atmospheric pressure via the feed and expansion tank
- Allows for natural expansion of water as it heats
- Can be more forgiving of minor leaks or pressure issues
Safety features:
- Overflow pipe to safely discharge excess water
- Anti-gravity loops to prevent backflow
- Thermostat controls to prevent overheating
Maintenance requirements:
- Regular checking of water levels in feed and expansion tank
- Inspection of visible pipework for leaks
- Annual service to ensure all components are functioning correctly
Understanding these aspects of open-vented systems is crucial for maintaining the safety and efficiency of your conventional boiler setup.
Axiom Heat Services
Axiom Heat specializes in expert installation of conventional boiler systems, ensuring your home heating is efficient, reliable, and tailored to your needs.
Our installation process:
- Comprehensive home survey and heat load calculation
- System design optimized for your property
- Clear, competitive quotation
- Professional Boiler installation by Gas Safe registered engineers
- Full system setup and efficiency optimization
- Rigorous testing and safety checks
- Detailed handover and user guidance
We offer a range of high-quality conventional boiler brands, including Worcester Bosch, Vaillant, and Baxi. All our installations comply with current regulations and come with extensive warranties for your peace of mind.
When your conventional boiler system needs attention, Axiom Heat’s skilled technicians are ready to help. Our comprehensive repair service covers all aspects of your heating system.
Our Boiler repair service includes:
- 24/7 emergency callout
- Advanced diagnostic techniques
- Use of genuine manufacturer parts
- Clear explanation of issues and repair process
- 12-month warranty on all repair work
Common conventional boiler issues we address:
- Pilot light failures
- Thermostat malfunctions
- Limescale build-up in the heat exchanger
- Problems with the hot water cylinder
- Issues with feed and expansion tank
Our aim is to resolve most issues in a single visit, minimizing disruption to your home heating and hot water supply.
Regular Boiler servicing is essential for maintaining the efficiency and longevity of your conventional boiler system. Axiom Heat offers comprehensive annual servicing to keep your heating system in optimal condition.
Our annual service includes:
- Thorough inspection of boiler, tanks, and cylinder
- Cleaning and adjustment of components
- Efficiency and safety tests
- Flue gas analysis
- Check and optimization of system pressure
- Full written report and energy efficiency advice
Benefits of choosing Axiom Heat for servicing:
- Flexible appointment scheduling
- Reminders for annual maintenance
- Potential reduction in energy bills through improved efficiency
- Extended system lifespan
- Compliance with manufacturer warranty requirements
We offer various service plans to suit different needs and budgets. Contact us to find the best option for your conventional boiler maintenance.
Why Choose Axiom Heat for Your Conventional Boiler Needs
Choosing Axiom Heat for your conventional boiler needs means partnering with a team of heating experts dedicated to providing superior service and solutions.
Our key strengths:
- Over 15 years of specialized experience in all types of heating systems
- Gas Safe registered engineers with extensive knowledge of conventional boilers
- Competitive pricing with flexible payment options
- Exceptional customer service and 24/7 support
- Comprehensive warranties on all installations and repairs