Conventional Oil Boilers: The Pros and Cons

Conventional oil boilers are best suited to large households with several people and more than one bathroom. To help you decide if a conventional oil boiler is right for you, we’ve come up with a list of its pros and cons.

Pros

Conventional oil boilers can supply hot water to multiple places

One advantage of a conventional boiler is that it can supply hot water to lots of different places at the same time. This is because it heats water up and stores it in advance. While a combi boiler might struggle to heat up enough water to go to two or more taps at the same time, a conventional boiler can easily supply hot water to multiple outlets. So if you have a big house with more than one bathroom, a conventional boiler might be for you.

Don’t need high water pressure

Conventional oil boilers are ideal if your mains water pressure is generally low. Because conventional oil boilers store hot water instead of heating it as it comes from the mains, they don’t require as high a water pressure as combi boilers.

Compatible with older heating systems

If you’re replacing an old central heating system, a conventional oil boiler is a good choice. This is because the layout of a conventional boiler is similar to older heating systems, so it should fit into your home fairly easily.

Cons

Takes up space

One disadvantage to conventional boilers is they take up quite a bit of space. If you want a regular boiler, you’ll need space for a hot water cylinder and a cold water tank. This contrasts with combi boilers, which come in one single compact unit.

Can only heat water in advance

Conventional oil boilers are only able to heat water in advance. This means that you need to have your boiler on a timer or remember to put it on before you need it. If you have a regular schedule this shouldn’t be a problem, but if you need hot water at different times on different days you may want to consider a different type of boiler.

Hot water can run out

Another drawback to conventional boilers is that they can’t supply a limitless amount of hot water. Once you’ve used up the maximum amount of water that a regular boiler can store, you’ll have to wait for it to heat and fill up again.

Relatively inefficient

Modern conventional oil boilers are generally very efficient. However, a certain amount of heat loss is inevitable when hot water is being stored. Combi boilers are generally more efficient than conventional boilers because they don’t store hot water.

If you’re getting an oil boiler, ensure that you use an OFTEC-registered installer to keep you and your family safe. Complete our online form and we’ll put you in touch with up to 4 boiler engineers in your area. They’ll be able to give you advice on what kind of boiler is suitable for you and your home.