When it comes to choosing a boiler type, gas boilers are usually the most popular option. While gas boilers generally perform better than electric boilers, there are some cases where an electric boiler can be the better choice.
At Safe Plumbers, we cover both gas and electric boiler services, and recently we have seen a rise in requests for electric boiler installations, especially in new-build properties.
In this article, we will explain when an electric boiler may be a better option.
No annual service
Electric boilers do not require annual service whereas gas boiler do. An electric boiler works by simply using metal elements to heat cold water — similar to a kettle.
A gas boiler works differently: natural gas flows through the boiler and is burned to generate heat, which then warms the water. It is the processing of burning natural gas which warms the water.
Because electric boilers don’t involve gas flow or combustion, you don’t need a mandatory Gas Safety check every year.
Note: Please check with your manufacturer, as some electric boiler brands require an annual inspection to keep the warranty valid.
Easy to install
Unlike gas boiler that require a boiler vent or flue, electric boilers don’t. This is one of the many reasons we have recently seen consumers looking to install electric boiler. For instance: if you live in a flat that installing a vent requires a lot of work or its not aesthetically desired electric boilers are great candidate.
Electric boilers installation is much more simplier than gas boiler. You don’t need a gas safety certificate, all you need is a certified electrician and a professional plumber to install it for you.
Small size flats
Small flats usually have lower heating and hot water demands due to their smaller floor area. Because of this lower power requirement, an electric boiler can be an excellent alternative.
While they are a great option, this doesn’t necessarily mean you should replace a perfectly functional gas boiler. A replacement usually only makes sense if your gas supply is being disconnected. However, in certain flats using hot water storage system, such as vented cylinder upgrading to an electric boiler is well worth considering as provides instant hot water.
An electric combi boiler can offer central heating in addition to hot water supply on demand making it a brilliant upgrade from old storage cylinders.
Recently, we have completed several electric boiler installations across Kensington, Notting Hill and Battersea for residents who wanted to switch from cylinders to electric boilers.
Less maintenance
Electric boilers have fewer components than gas boilers, which generally means less maintenance. Gas boilers are more complex and can develop complicated issues that require a certified gas engineer. With electric boilers, depending on the problem, you might need a plumber or a certified electrician.
However, because electric boilers are still a relatively new standard, finding an expert can sometimes be more challenging than finding a traditional gas engineer. That said, the overall cost of servicing or minor repairs is typically lower for electric systems.
How to choose the right electric boiler brand?
When looking at the market, there are four major brands to consider. Before choosing a specific brand, it is important to check the requirements and features of each model.
We have experience installing all four major brands, but we particularly like to install Strom boilers due to their reliability and ease of installation. That said, the other brands also perform very well.
A key factor in choosing the right brand is the warranty period. Since an electric boiler relies entirely on high-powered electrical elements to warm your water, having these components covered for a longer period is a smart move.
Four boiler brands that we work very often are:
Safe Plumbers’ experience on electric boiler
Over the past few years, we have installed plenty of electric boilers across West London. One noticeable difference compared with a gas boiler is that the water pressure is usually lower. This doesn’t mean it is not good enough for taking a shower, but it is something to keep in mind.
Our customers are happy with their electric boilers, especially the combi boilers that provide both hot water and heating for radiators.
If you live in a small flat or are tired of using an indirect vented storage cylinder, an electric boiler can be a good option.
Get in touch with us for your brand new electric boiler installation in London, and we will recommend you the correct solution.