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Increase the value of your home by installing a new boiler
Which is the best combi boiler to buy? This is a broad topic, as there are plenty of factors to consider besides the new boiler cost. Fuel type, reliability, warranty, composition and design – these are just some of the aspects you need to factor in when looking for your very best combi boiler.
In this guide, we’ve gathered some of the best combi boilers in the UK based on their unique specifications as well as user feedback to help you make an informed decision. However, searching for a boiler does not end with finding a suitable model. You also need a boiler engineer you can trust.
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To select our best combi boiler list, we carefully studied the market proposition, combi boiler reviews in the UK as well as global industry trends.
Reliability and warranty: Multiple combi boiler reviews equate the boiler's longevity and reliability. As a rule of thumb, longer warranties indicate higher manufacturer confidence in the boiler's reliability.
We chose from combi boilers manufacturers that offer warranties between 5 and 15 years and possibilities to extend the warranty period. We also looked at boiler features like frost protection, stainless steel heat exchangers, weather compensation systems, and such, as they are good indicators of high quality and the most reliable combi boiler options.
Features and technology: Control technology and remote digital monitoring are becoming increasingly important as more homeowners are willing to track their boiler performance and adjust boiler settings from their smartphones.
Moreover, consumers are seeking boilers that can integrate with their existing home automation systems, such as smart thermostats, voice assistants, or geofencing (a technology that controls homes' heating and cooling systems through GPS or RFID). We made sure to check whether all boilers on our list meet these consumer requirements.
Here are the most popular and best-rated combi boiler options in the UK catering to different needs.
Boiler | Winning category | Notable features |
---|---|---|
Viessmann Vitodens 100-W | Best gas combi boiler | Stainless steel Inox–Radial heat exchanger, with an energy efficiency of up to 98% |
Vaillant ecoTEC Plus 832 LPG | Best LPG combi boiler | Quiet operation, hydrogen readiness, LPG to gas convertible, long warranty |
Heatrae Sadia Electromax | Best electric combi boiler | In-built 180-litre stainless steel unvented cylinder, flexible installation, smart energy management |
Worcester Bosch Greenstar Heatslave II | Best oil combi boiler | Flow rate of 22 litres per minute, EcoHot Water Mode for advanced temperature control |
Intergas Eco RF series | Most reliable combi boiler | Bi-thermic heat exchanger, wear and tear proof construction, energy efficiency |
Baxi 600 Combi 2 24kW | Best affordable combi boiler | Compact design, built-in piping for aesthetic appeal, user-friendly features |
Let's look at our selection in more detail to see why each combi boiler is best in its category.
When considering combi boiler options in the UK, there are 4 common fuel solutions: gas, oil, LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas), and electric. Natural gas is ideal for urban areas and homes connected to the gas grid. In fact, it's the most popular boiler fuel in the UK.
Oil and LPG boilers suit rural, off-grid and farmland locations like the Midlands, Northern Scotland, and other areas that may lack gas networks. Oil boilers require an oil storage tank, but outdoor models are available to save indoor space and reduce noise. When searching for the best LPG combi boiler, consider your available space and heating needs, as they will determine the storage tank size needed.
Electric boilers suit homes with low heating demands, as they have high running costs due to high electricity prices.
Specifications | Details |
---|---|
Efficiency | 94-98% |
Model range | 26kW, 30kW, 35kW |
Max. CH output | 25kW, 30kW |
Max. DHW output | 22.1kW, 28kW, 32.7kW |
Warranty | 10 years standard (extendable to 12 years) |
Suitable for | 1-4 bedroom homes with 1 bathroom; larger properties with higher hot water demand |
Estimated supply price | £1,450–£1,590 |
Why is it rated the best | exceptional efficiency, compact design, advanced components, venting options up to 60m (180ft), hydrogen-ready |
This is one of the best boilers for small and medium-sized homes, as it's available in 26kW to 35kW and designed to fit into standard cupboards (1150mm of vertical space: 700mm height + 350mm top clearance + 100mm bottom clearance).
This model uses a stainless steel Inox–Radial heat exchanger, which makes the boiler long-lasting and resistant to corrosion and allows for an efficient heat transfer from the combustion gases to the water.
Its whisper-quiet operation (35-36dB) is possible thanks to the model's pre-mix burner system. It optimises the fuel mix for smoother and quieter combustion and makes it the best gas combi boiler for properties that value tranquillity as much as comfort.
Specifications | Details |
---|---|
Efficiency | 94% |
Model range | 26kW, 30kW, 35kW |
Max. CH output | 26.5kW |
Max. DHW output | 32.6kW |
Warranty | 5 years (extendable to 10 years) |
Suitable for | small and medium-sized properties with up to 15 radiators and 1-2 bathrooms |
Estimated supply price | £1,580–£1,950 |
Why is it rated the best | award-winning quiet operation, hydrogen-ready, gas compatibility, compact size |
This is one of the most popular Vaillant boilers due to its compact design (720mm x 440mm x 352mm). It shares the same dimensions, flue position, and pipe connections as previous Vaillant models, which enables straightforward replacements and cheap boiler installation.
Apart from being 20% hydrogen-ready, the IoniDETECT technology allows this boiler to seamlessly convert from LPG to natural gas (and vice versa) without requiring additional parts. This feature expands and adapts the modulation range up to 1:10 compared to 1:5 or 1:6 from other brands. This means that Vaillant boilers can reduce their maximum output to just 10% of their full capacity vs 20% for boilers with a 1:5 modulation ratio.
This model delivers 13 litres of hot water (35ºC) per minute, with the manufacturer guaranteeing instant hot water delivery – in just 5 seconds.
Specifications | Details |
---|---|
Efficiency | 99.8% |
Model range | 6kW, 9kW |
Max. CH output | 9kW |
Max. DHW output | 9kW |
Warranty | 2 years (10-year warranty on the cylinder) |
Suitable for | well-insulated small to medium houses without gas supply |
Estimated supply price | £2,400–£3,070 |
Why is it rated the best | compatible with solar panels, integrated hot water storage for consistent supply |
This boiler combines a hot water cylinder and a pre-plumbed, factory-fitted circulating pump. Its integral duplex stainless steel unvented cylinder has a 180-litre capacity, which delivers mains pressure showering, fast-filling baths, and simultaneous supply to multiple taps.
Heatrae Sadia Electromax doesn't require a flue or fuel tanks, which allows for flexible installation. Its integrated smart controls help homeowners reduce energy costs by managing different heating zones at home and creating detailed heating schedules (for example, during sleep or when you're away from home).
Specifications | Details |
---|---|
Efficiency | 90-92% |
Model range* | 12/18kW, 18/25kW, 25/32kW (2022+) |
Max. CH output | 18kW, 25kW, 32kW |
Max. DHW output | 18kW, 25kW, 32kW |
Warranty | 2 years (extendable to 7 years) |
Suitable for | medium homes with 1 bathroom (18/25); larger properties with 2 bathrooms (25/32) |
Estimated supply price | £2,350–£2,395 |
Why is it rated the best | has an A rating for heat and B rating for water, high flow rate, energy-saving ECO mode, compatibility with solar panels. |
Worcester Bosch Greenstar Heatslave II comes in three outputs: 12/18kW, 18/25kW and 25/32kW. This makes it the best combi boiler for a 3 bed house and even larger properties that aren't connected to the gas grid. It allows for a flow rate of up to 22 litres per minute, which suits properties with multiple bathrooms.
These Worcester Bosch boilers are equipped with the next-generation Heatronic 4i digital control unit. It allows homeowners to set the preferred home temperature to prevent overheating and save on energy bills. Its Eco Hot Water mode takes the energy consumption reduction even further by heating the water in 10-12 seconds after you open the tap.
Yet it's worth noting that some combi boiler reviews pointed out that this boiler produces "almost boiling" hot water, even after setting the hot water temperature to a minimum setting. Also, installing this boiler requires preparing a base for the oil tank, digging a trench for the oil pipe and additional pipework, which might add to your combi boiler installation total.
This is why consulting with a professional boiler installer is crucial when sifting through the available combi boiler options. They can recommend the best combi boiler option for your particular situation as well as inform on the required pipework and projected installation cost.
We can help you obtain up to 3 quotes from reputable installers near you without spending hours on research. Simply answer a few questions about your home, and we'll take it from there.
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When searching for an affordable boiler, you should never sacrifice quality. Modern combi boiler manufacturers invest heavily in research and technology to improve longevity, energy efficiency, and boiler reliability. Intergas Eco RF is the best-rated combi boiler when it comes to reliability.
Specifications | Details |
---|---|
Efficiency | 93-94% |
Model range | 24kW, 30kW, 36kW |
Max. CH output | 18kW, 23kW, 27kW |
Max. DHW output | 22.1kW, 28kW, 32.7kW |
Warranty | 10 years for parts and labour (extendable to 12 years) |
Suitable for | 1-4 bedroom homes with 1 bathroom; larger properties with higher hot water demand |
Estimated supply price | £2,400–£3,070 |
Why is it rated the best | up to 20 years of quality performance, rare breakdowns, efficient heat exchanger design, installer choice |
Intergas developed a unique bi-thermic (two-in-one) heat exchanger design for its boilers. This design simplifies the heat exchanger system by eliminating the need for failure-prone components such as diverter valves, auto air vents, and secondary hot water exchangers.
Eco RF features 12 components and 4 moving parts (compared to 20-30 individual components and 12-15 moving parts in average combi boilers), reducing the risk of wear and tear. The model's Wilo pumps half the boiler's electricity consumption, and its vacuum panel insulation reduces heat and energy losses.
This boiler series comes with a wide output range, with the 36 model being the biggest. Thus, if you're looking for the best boiler for a large 5-bedroom house, Intergas Eco RF 30 and 36 solutions can easily cater to your heating needs.
Homeowners who search for the lowest, and often seen as the best price for combi boilers, should understand that focusing only on the initial cost isn't the most economical choice in the long run.
High efficiency ratings, stainless steel heat exchangers, modulating burners, and weather or load compensation features make affordable boilers cheaper to run in the long term.
Specifications | Details |
---|---|
Efficiency | 93-94% |
Model range | 20kW |
Max. CH output | 24kW |
Max. DHW output | 9kW |
Warranty | 7 years for parts and labour |
Suitable for | properties with low and medium central heating and hot water demand |
Estimated supply price | £880 |
Why is it rated the best | high-end specifications, long warranty period, compact design, high energy efficiency |
The compact design of Baxi boilers of this range eliminates the need to modify existing space, being able to fit in a 290mm deep cupboard. Built-in pipes behind the facility allow pipework to be hidden within the boiler casing, making them the best 24kW combi boiler option for spaces where aesthetics is key.
Also, it caters to a wider range of properties as it can be manually converted between natural gas and LPG without requiring a conversion kit.
Its Easy-Fill permanent filling ink and external analogue pressure gauge enable users to top up system pressure themselves. Brass hydraulics and a stainless steel heat exchanger extend the boiler's lifespan.
On top of that, when paired with Baxi's uSense 2 smart thermostat, this model allows for significant savings on heating bills as it optimises energy usage.
Other brands such as Vokera, Worcester Bosch, Navien, Alpha, and Ideal boilers are constantly regarded as the best combi boilers under £1,000 in the UK.
To find the best combi boiler on the market at an affordable price, it's advisable to consult a certified installer. However, such a professional is typically booked months in advance, especially with the heating season around the corner. A busy homeowner like you doesn't have time for a long waiting list!
Thankfully, WhatCost can provide a shortcut. Complete our 30-second form, and within 48 hours, we'll connect you with up to 3 boiler professionals in your area. Compare their quotes and choose the one that fits your budget.
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Worcester Bosch is a long-time household name known for top-of-the-line quality, innovation, and versatility. Any boiler guide you look at will almost certainly mention this brand, and ours is no exception.
Worcester Bosch Greenstar 8000+ Style and Greenstar 4000 are regarded as their flagship models, offering the following features:
Viessman is another customer favourite, gaining recognition for its efficient, sustainable, and quiet boilers. Its ESyCool green cool energy solution received the IKU Award, showcasing its commitment to sustainability.
Viessmann Vitodens 100-W and Vitodens 200-W solutions are the company's best-selling combination boilers, catering to both smaller and larger homes. Here's how they stand out:
Ideal Heating is an award-winning British boiler manufacturer recognised for its affordable yet high-quality boiler solutions, offering great value for money.
Ideal Logic+ Combi2 and Ideal Logic Max Combi2 boilers are the brand's flagship models, sharing the following outstanding specs:
Vaillant has gained its reputation as a standard setter by introducing the first-ever high-efficiency boiler. Its boilers are recognised for their quiet operation, having been awarded the Quiet Mark accreditation by the UK Noise Abatement Society.
Vaillant's ecoTEC Plus and ecoTEC Exclusive with Green IQ are considered the company's best combination boilers. Apart from the 94% energy efficiency capabilities, their unique features include:
Baxi is another British boiler manufacturer known for its reliability and sustainability. Currently, Baxi owns other commercial heating brands, including Remeha, Potterton Commercial, Andrews Water Heaters, and Heatrae Sadia. Earlier in this guide, the latter was mentioned as the best electric combi boiler.
Baxi 800 Combi 2, Baxi 600 Combi 2, and Baxi Platinum Compact Combi are recommended for homeowners on a budget. Their features include:
Deciding which is the best combi boiler on the market is never the same due to how heating preferences and water demands vary greatly from home to home. Therefore, as a homeowner, you should carefully consider your home's size, hot water usage patterns, energy efficiency goals, long-term running expenses, and your budget, of course.
Top brands like Worcester Bosch, Viessmann, Ideal, Baxi, Intergas, and Vaillant all cater to different heating needs and offer excellent combi boilers with varying advantages.
In this guide, we tried to provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision. However, there might be other suitable combi boiler options that were not mentioned in our list. In any case, consulting a professional installer and comparing available quotes is absolutely necessary before investing in a boiler.
An experienced boiler engineer can assess your home, recommend the best possible boiler option, and calculate the installation costs for you. This is the best way to protect you from unnecessary expenses and wasting hours on boiler comparison trying to find the best fit on your own.
With WhatCost, you can effortlessly get up to 3 quotes from reputable installers near you to kick-start your heating project in no time. Simply complete our short form below, and within 48 hours, we'll connect you with professionals from our vetted installer list.
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Based on user feedback, Intergas appears to be the most reliable combi boiler brand. Multiple customers reported boilers from this company being long-lasting and the most dependable option available.
The Worcester Bosch Greenstar series is frequently mentioned as the most popular combi boiler in the UK. Also, boilers from Ideal, Vaillant, and Baxi are highly regarded by customers and installers.
Worcester Bosch boilers are often praised by the UK audience for their efficiency of up to 94%, with some homeowners claiming to have cut their gas usage by up to 30% with the Greenstar 8000+ model.
Homeowners often mention that Intergas boilers last for years and even decades. Remeha and Vaillant are other long-lasting brands that have been mentioned. However, any boiler can serve you for a long time with regular checkups and proper maintenance.
Ciaran is a content writer at WhatCost. He has become an expert in energy saving and eco-conscious living which he uses to create informative content for WhatCost readers.