Complete Guide to Boiler Types in 2025

Discover the different types of boilers available through the ECO4 free boiler scheme. Compare features, efficiency ratings, and find the perfect boiler for your home.

Types of Boilers Available

All boiler types are available through the ECO4 scheme, subject to your home's requirements and suitability assessment.

Combi Boilers - Combination boilers provide heating and hot water on demand without needing a separate water tank.
Combi Boilers

Combination boilers provide heating and hot water on demand without needing a separate water tank.

Efficiency: 92-94%
Small to medium homes
£1,500 - £3,500
Install: 1-2 days

Advantages

  • Space-saving design
  • Instant hot water
  • No water tank required
  • Lower installation costs
  • Good water pressure

Best For

1-3 bedroom homes with one bathroom

Popular Brands

Worcester Bosch
Vaillant
Baxi
Ideal
System Boilers - System boilers work with a hot water cylinder but don't need a cold water tank in the loft.
System Boilers

System boilers work with a hot water cylinder but don't need a cold water tank in the loft.

Efficiency: 90-92%
Medium to large homes
£2,000 - £4,000
Install: 1-2 days

Advantages

  • Good for multiple bathrooms
  • Consistent water pressure
  • No loft tank required
  • Faster hot water recovery
  • Compatible with solar thermal

Best For

3-4 bedroom homes with multiple bathrooms

Popular Brands

Worcester Bosch
Vaillant
Viessmann
Alpha
Regular Boilers - Traditional boilers that work with both a hot water cylinder and cold water tank.
Regular Boilers

Traditional boilers that work with both a hot water cylinder and cold water tank.

Efficiency: 88-92%
Large homes with existing systems
£1,800 - £3,800
Install: 1-2 days

Advantages

  • Excellent for large homes
  • Multiple hot water outlets
  • Compatible with older systems
  • Good for low water pressure areas
  • Reliable hot water supply

Best For

Large homes with multiple bathrooms and existing tank systems

Popular Brands

Worcester Bosch
Potterton
Ideal
Glow-worm
Condensing Boilers - High-efficiency boilers that recover heat from waste gases, required by law for new installations.
Condensing Boilers

High-efficiency boilers that recover heat from waste gases, required by law for new installations.

Efficiency: 90-98%
All home types
£2,000 - £5,000
Install: 1-2 days

Advantages

  • Maximum efficiency
  • Lower running costs
  • Environmentally friendly
  • Government compliant
  • Available in all types

Best For

Any home requiring a new boiler installation

Popular Brands

Worcester Bosch
Vaillant
Viessmann
Baxi

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most efficient type of boiler?

Condensing boilers are the most efficient type, achieving up to 98% efficiency. They work by recovering heat from waste gases that would otherwise be lost. All new boilers installed in the UK must be condensing boilers by law.

How do I choose the right boiler type for my home?

Consider your home size, number of bathrooms, water pressure, and space availability. Combi boilers are best for small homes, system boilers for medium homes with multiple bathrooms, and regular boilers for large homes with existing tank systems.

What is the average cost of a new boiler?

Boiler costs vary by type: Combi boilers (£1,500-£3,500), System boilers (£2,000-£4,000), and Regular boilers (£1,800-£3,800). Through the ECO4 scheme, eligible homeowners can get a free boiler installation.

How long does a boiler installation take?

A typical boiler installation takes 1-2 days. Combi boiler installations are usually quicker (1 day), while system and regular boiler installations may take 2 days due to additional components.

Ready to Upgrade Your Boiler?

Check if you qualify for a free boiler through the ECO4 scheme. Our experts will help you choose the right boiler type for your home.