Finding a boiler for a small house or flat can be tricky. You want something that is powerful enough for your heating and hot water needs without increasing your bills substantially. For the sake of this article, we’re defining small homes as houses or flats with 1 bathroom and up to 10 radiators. If you want to know about heating a bigger property, check out our boiler guides for 3-bedroom properties, 4-bedroom homes, or large houses.
If you’re looking for a boiler to heat your small house, we at Warmable have pooled our expertise to help you out! Read on to find out everything you need to know to find the best boiler for your small house.
What’s the Right Size of a Boiler for a Two-Bed Home?
To find the right boiler size – that is one that caters to your home’s heating needs without drastically increasing your bills or wasting energy – you should consider the following factors:
What is Your Hot Water Demand?
In small properties with just one bathroom, hot water needs are fairly limited. The heat load for the average small house in the UK ranges from around 10 to 20 kW.
How Many Radiators Does Your Home Have?
Generally speaking, small houses in the UK with one bathroom have up to around 10 radiators. These radiators can be supplied by a boiler with an output of between 24 to 30 kW.
What is your Water Pressure Like?
Modern houses run on the mains water supply so are not impacted by this question; however, some older homes don’t have a high-pressure water supply. A higher flow rate will require a bigger boiler. Unsure about the flow rate of your boiler and what this means? Speak to one of our experts today.
Why is a Combi Boiler the Best Choice for a Small House?
Unlike other boiler types, a combi boiler does not rely on a water storage facility in order to operate. As well as being ideal to optimise storage space, they also save money on energy bills by providing hot water on demand.
Combi boilers can give hot water on demand without the need for a separate water tank
How Much Does a Small Boiler Cost?
Data from uSwitch suggests that a new boiler can cost anywhere between £500 to £2,500 depending on the size, the model and the installation quotes. Installation quotes can vary greatly depending on the labour required, the materials needed and any boiler upgrades. At Warmable, we always look to find you the most competitive quote in your area. Working with over 1,000 professionals across all areas of the UK, we can get someone to install your boiler within 24-48 hours.
Where’s the Best Place for a Boiler in a Small House?
One important factor when installing a boiler is where to put it to maximise space. At Warmable, our team suggests the following places:
Utility room: if you have a utility room or utility cupboard this is a great location to install your boiler.
Kitchen cupboard: the majority of modern boilers are small meaning they can usually fit in a kitchen cupboard.
Loft: lofts, if you have them, are a good option for boiler storage. Ensure that you can conveniently access the loft and there is adequate lighting so that any service or repairs can be carried out easily. There also needs to be enough space and support for the boiler.
Bathroom: the bathroom could be a good option for boiler installation but noisier boilers could disrupt sleep if too close to the bedrooms.
How to Choose the Right Boiler Type for a Small House
When choosing the right type of boiler for your small house, consider the following factors:
Output and flow rate: smaller homes require a smaller central heating output and flow rate; therefore, buying a boiler that has a higher than necessary output will increase your energy bill. Having a free consultation with a boiler engineer can help you know the water pressure in your home and find out what the right flow rate and boiler would be for you.
Size: small homes are often tight on room. Compact combi boilers can be a good option to maximise space as they can fit into a kitchen cupboard or other small space.
Guarantee: consider the cover for any new boiler you purchase, taking into account both parts and labour. The standard guarantee for a boiler is 5 years.
Environmental friendliness: when choosing an A-rated boiler, you’re not only supporting the planet but making a good long-term investment as it will reduce your energy bills.
Closing Thoughts
The best boiler for a small house is a combi boiler which can maximise space and generate sufficient heat for up to 10 radiators without increasing your energy bills too much.
Let’s talk new boilers! Contact us today to get you the professional advice you need!
