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Many families just replace an existing system boiler with another similar boiler and don’t consider the options which are available to them. Your boiler may be limping along, or you may have moved and are considering a replacement.

Combi-boilers can make a huge difference providing hot water on demand and giving you more space in the home. You can get rid of the immersion heater and your tanks. 

First, establish if your existing heating system is working well and whether a combi-boiler is right for your home and lifestyle. Combi boilers provide hot water without the need for a hot or cold water tank. Instant hot water is available the moment you turn on the hot taps as the boiler with fire up and heat the water in the pipes. As there is no hot water tank, this heating is considered much more efficient.

Reasons for installing a combi-boiler

The main reason is to do away with the water tanks, which will free up a lot of space. This is very important if you want to extend into your loft or if you have a small house or apartment where space is at a premium. Freeing up an airing cupboard for additional storage space is a real bonus. 

You will still need space for the boiler, but as this is typically similar in size to a standard heat-only boiler, it can fit in where the old one was sited.

With a standard boiler, the heat is usually produced twice a day regardless of whether it gets used or not – generally in the morning and evening. If the water doesn’t get used, it simply cools down and is a waste of energy. Combi boilers will produce the hot water when you need it – as soon as you turn on the shower or a tap. For many families, this will amount to substantial energy savings. If your family all shower in the morning, then a heat-only boiler may be the most suitable option. Once the first tank of water has been used, you need to wait until the boiler fires up or, reset your programme, to produce further hot water.

Changing your heating system

If you plan to replace a heat-only boiler with a combi boiler, then bear in mind that you may need additional pipe-work especially if replacing radiators or pipes under floorboards. Consider undertaking this project before fitting a new carpet, for example.

Condensing combi boilers are relatively standard and, whether you fit a combi or a heat-only boiler, it is likely to be condensing because they offer greater efficiency. There is an additional condensing pipe which will allow the condensed vapours to be drained away as the boiler is working and this is fitted usually to an outside drain.

When is the best time to change your boiler? 

We would always say before winter so that you can get the most out of your boiler when the weather changes. There is still time to do that before this winter sets in though. 

Should I swap to a combi-boiler?

We would say that if you have a small house and are looking to utilize space, then a combi-boiler is the best solution. We would also recommend combi-boilers if you are moving properties and thinking about refurbishment. This is the perfect time to consider a new heating system. 

If you have a large house with a considerable demand for hot water at any one time of the day, a system or regular boiler may suit you better. 

And, if your budget is tight yet your boiler needs replacing, then a system conversion will add to your overall costs. It may, therefore, be best to replace like with like.

What should I do next?

At Kemco, we are very happy to visit your home and have a look at your existing system. Our gas-safe engineers can give you the benefit of their experience and talk about the latest makes and models of boilers, their efficiency ratings and what would be best for your home.

We have gas fitters and engineers cover London, Surrey, West Sussex – particularly the Worthing area and parts of East Sussex. Please contact us through the website form or give us a ring on 020 3196 1963

Alcumus SafeContractor Approved

Kemco Plumbing and Heating have been awarded accreditation from Alcumus Safe Contractor for achieving excellence in health and safety in the workplace.

The Alcumus SafeContractor scheme is a leading third-party accreditation scheme used by thousands of SMEs and FTSE 100 companies. It recognises exceptionally rigorous standards, by contractors, in health and safety management.

Kemco Plumbing and Heating, as the name implies, specialise in private and commercial plumbing, heating and drainage. The new SafeContractor accreditation will enhance our ability to win new contracts as our commitment to safety is proven to be first class.

Our company’s high standards set us apart from many of the smaller plumbing and heating companies and provide a vital role in supporting our clients’ needs.

We are 100% committed to the safety of every project and are very proud to have been awarded this accreditation.

If you are looking at revamping your bathroom this year, the new bathroom designs reflect on space as a haven in which to escape and relax.

Beautiful bathroom designs for 2018

If you are lucky enough to have a large bathroom or even a spare bedroom that you could turn into a spacious new bathroom, this would be an ideal solution. Alternatively, you can use design and colour to give the illusion of more space with large tile flooring and strategically placed mirrors.

Nothing feels more luxurious than a freestanding bath. It is a superb way to make a statement and to add a dynamic focal point to your new bathroom. Do consider that if you are going to site your bath in the centre of your new bathroom, you will almost certainly need to budget for new pipes.

Another way to indulge the senses is to fit a whirlpool bath. Specially fitted jets can improve a long list of aches and pains from circulation problems to joint relief and sore muscles after your favourite exercise leaves you needing more than just a relaxing soak.

So what do you choose when it comes to style?

Are you thinking traditional to go with a Victorian or Georgian styled home or contemporary?

The traditional classic tubs of yesteryear are popular with either claw or dragon feet and add a definite vintage appeal which can be matched with more conventional fixtures.

On the other hand, a contemporary bath with its angular lines and less conventional shape can make your bathroom a real talking point. Add modern bathroom fixtures such as a square sink basin and minimalist taps such as a waterfall or chrome mixer and you will become the envy of your neighbours.

Shower baths are practical and space-saving

Not everyone is blessed with space so do consider a ‘back to wall’ shower bath which will fit close to a wall to maximise space. Alternatively, an L-shaped bath is a good solution for combining both shower and bath space as is a P-Shaped bath providing that extra space at one end for family members who prefer to shower rather than bath. Some examples of the shower baths that we install can be seen here.

Mix materials, colours and textures

Granite is out, and quartz is in, and it is available in many different hues, surfaces and patterns. Quartz will work on your floors, counters, vanities and walls – not only is it environmentally friendly but it has a slightly lower price tag than granite.

When it comes to choosing a sink, porcelain is taking a back seat, and hand-carved stone is the preferred material for 2018.

Bold brass hardware is also making a return emitting warm tones and complementing some new spring paint colours.

Industrial is becoming the new trend

The influence of trendy industrial loft conversions is transferring to a new bathroom trend with exposed pipes, metal tubs and sinks, use of concrete and raw brick walls. This is not everyone’s ideal image of a relaxing and indulgent space but it is purposeful and a trend we feel is sure to continue in the right properties and for fashionistas in home improvements.

Lighting and technology becomes a strong element of bathroom design

Just remember that technology is accessible to everyone nowadays so don’t neglect it when planning your inner sanctuary. Consider fitting hi-tech shower jets and controls, motion-detecting lights, speakers that are voice activated and led mirrors that demist by sensor control.

These are just a few of the latest innovations that we can install when planning your new bathroom refit.

If you are looking for further inspiration, let us guide you to a few more ideas as mentioned in Ideal Home last month. If you see something you like, we can install any make or model of your choice as long as it is the right size to fit your room and … that is where we can come into our own. If you would like to use the services of our creative designer, just fill out our enquiry form or ring us for more details on 020 3196 1963 to make a splash in 2018.