New boiler?

[StillRunningWithScissors]

Right, I think our boiler has finally had it.

So, recommendations for a new, decent boiler would be greatly appreciated.

We have a megaflo in the loft (only 4yrs old), with a pump to send water up (newish pump, installed 2yrs ago). Boiler is in the kitchen.

We don't want a combo boiler! We like the set up we have, as it allows two showers plus the dishwasher to run at the same time, all at good power.

We have a four bed house, no underfloor heating. So, what do we need to stay warm and happy (and not need to replace in only a few years).

Thank you

do you know a good local installer?

have a look at some manufacturer's websites to see if they have a list of approved installers near you. Vaillant, Viessmann and Worcester Bosch are well thought of. The quality of installation makes a big difference.

You just need a conventional or system boiler. The less complicated they are, the less likely, IMO, to go wrong.

If you existing boiler and/or radiators are old, have the sludge and detritus powerflushed out before the new boiler is connected. And have a system filter fitted, because flushing can never get all the dirt out.

If not already done, this is a good time to have a programmable stat and TRVs fitted. If you have a larger than average house it is worthwhile considering zoning it to heat, e,g. bedrooms at different times to living rooms.

If your old boiler was old, it may have run at a higher temperature than a modern boiler will, so any rooms with undersized radiators may benefit from bigger ones. Better to have rads too big than too small.

a modern boiler will generate plumes of steam in cold weather, so consider positioning it where the flue will not blow them past your windows or (preferably) the front of the house. Near a corner is handy as the wind will tend to swirl it away. A flue extension or diverter elbow can be added. Yours will not be as steamy as a combi.

It will need a drain for the condensate, preferably run the pipe inside the house, e.g. to the sink waste. It is very tiresome to have your boiler shut down in very cold weather because an outside pipe has frozen solid.

Thanks so much PigletJohn I was hoping you'd be around.

Very good tip on finding installers via the manufacturers.

I am also of the opinion that simple is best.

I appreciate all of the additional tips too. I will print out your reply so I gave it to hand when needed.

Thank you!