Guide to different boiler technologies
- 1. Boilers
There are three types of boilers:- Combination boilers (also known as combi boilers)
- System boilers (also known as sealed system boilers)
- Regular boilers (also known as open vent boilers)
- 2. Heat pumps
These heating systems take their thermal energy from environmental sources such as air, ground or water; which is then converted into heating and hot water by the use of a heat pump. This is one of the most environmentally friendly and economical ways to provide hot water and heating for your home.- Low running costs
- Government incentives
- No need for fuel
- No emissions
- High operating efficiency
- Sustainable energy
- Quiet operation
- Suitable for both radiators and under floor heating
- Suitable for climate controlled systems
- Low maintenance and long life
- 3. Solar thermal
Solar panels are a familiar energy technology that when combined with a modern heating system, provide a low cost source of hot water and heat. Solar collectors on the roof heat fluid in a sealed circuit which then heats up the water in a hot water tank.- Low running costs
- No carbon emissions
- Cost saving
- Reduced fossil fuel footprint
- High integration into other heating systems
- Works all year round
- 4. Storage cylinders
Used to store large amounts of hot water for the heating system and the hot water system, ensuring that whenever you require hot water it is available. They can be combined with a variety of heating systems and are insulated to reduce the amount of heat loss.- Hot water is always available
- Works with different heat sources
- Wide range of water capacity
- 5. Smart homes
Modern technology allows the heating and hot water systems to be controlled by smartphones or tablets. This ensures that maximum efficiency can be drawn from these systems, with programmes being tailored to fast moving changes in the home schedule. - 6. Controls
Modern household hot water and heating system controls are able to adjust the delivery to the requirements of the almost infinite demands of modern lifestyles. The accessibility of controls via smartphones and tablets means that heating and hot water is only used when needed. - 7. If you have misplaced or lost your user manual, you can locate a replacement manual from this list of Ideal boilers (please have your model number to hand).
- We update the maintenance tips and troubleshooting guidance from time to time and aim to make it as helpful as possible. The purpose of the maintenance and troubleshooting section of this website is to provide you with general guidance. Please ensure you read and follow our instructions carefully and do not undertake the maintenance or troubleshooting unless you are aged 18 or over, are competent to do so and are confident that you can complete the maintenance. If in doubt do not attempt any actions and where an appliance is gas fuelled refer to a Gas Safe engineer for assistance.
This website is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice and does not:
- cover every reason that your product could fail;
- cover all of the maintenance that can be undertaken for your product;
- supersede any advice in your instruction manual or from your product manufacturer.
Do not carry out any maintenance or use the troubleshooting guide if it puts you or anyone else in danger or if you believe it may cause damage to your, or another person’s property.