New boiler - who should I believe?

[TBServices]

Actually, that's a somewhat lazy posting.

What if client doesn't have the space for the unvented cylinder? Lots of flats in Brighton with not enough storage space so a combi could be ideal.

What if getting the discharge out is impractical? I've had that. Airing cupboard in the middle of a small flat with parket flooring.

Have a customer with 4 bed, 2 bathroom semi. New boiler in converted garage. I argued for an unvented, as they had the pressure & flow rate to make it viable, but they really, really wanted a combi. 3 years later they are still happy with the 35kw Viessmann Vitodens 200 I installed. They take turns in showering. Simples.

This is my long winded way of saying, advise the client as best as you can, taking into account all the relevant information (including customer preference).

I fit more combis than anything else because either a, that's what is there already, b, it suits the application, or c, the customer cannot be swayed from having a combi. If that's the case then their decision has nothing to do with my recommendation.

In this instance, it sounds like the OP has room for a cylinder and has been advised that it would be the best solution. Thankfully she seems open to suggestion.

The fact is, the combi has led to a breed of plumber who doesn't actually understand CH System layouts and controls. They wouldn't know where to fit a pump or how to balance rads. Get one of these guys in your house and you'll end up with a combi, whether its suitable or not.

 

[Centralheatking]

Come on Edna do tell us what you have decided as its the feedback that makes this forum good

Aw, I think you're wonderful too :wink5:

I'm not in West Lancs unfortunately Centralheatking, a couple of hundred miles south.

Thanks for the advice chaps, time to talk to No 2 again and make some decisions.

 

[edna clouds]

Come on Edna do tell us what you have decided as its the feedback that makes this forum good

I will, I will.
I left a message for No 2 on Friday morning letting him know he was the front runner but that I had a couple of questions for him before we firmed up on the job but have heard nothing since. I can only hope he's having a nice weekend and will be in touch Monday morning.....

 

[edna clouds]

All decided, happy Edna here, job booked with No 2.
Existing system is being ripped out completely, new 2 pipe system being installed; Ideal logic + 30 boiler plus magnetic filter; new shower to run off combi. I just have to introduce him to Bob the Builder (yes really, his name is Bob) so they can work out the finer details of who's doing what when and choose my towel rail.

Thanks for all the replies, I'll be back to let you know if I'm still smiling in a few weeks.

Next task is to work out just how little space I can fit a usable shower room into (small garage extension with wonky walls being converted) and conclude the tanking versus shower tray debate..... I may well see you over on the wet room forum....

 

[TBServices]

Top stuff Edna, keep us informed of your progress! It's nice to see the payoff sometimes!

 

[Destroyer2813]

Although I've not participated in this thread its nice to see someone come back and be appreciative of the advice given, seen as we give it out for free in our spare time

 

[Mrs Tara Plumbi]

Just to throw in a word.
In my life of living with many heating systems I prefer a combi - and we have 5 in my household. (My Husband - the heating installer doesn't agree with me for all the reasons you read above).
The non-stop water when the hot tap is running for hours is good! You know all that....

Wanted to add there are lots of UF heating systems you could consider for the new room - don't rule it out. The cheapest installation option is probably electric UFH - we have it in parts of our house and regularly install it in others.