The 5 Most Reliable Combi Boiler Brands (and ones to avoid)
Jan. 06, 2025
The 5 Most Reliable Combi Boiler Brands (and ones to avoid)
On the lookout for a new boiler, but dont know where to start? Buying a new boiler can be confusing, not to mention an unexpected expense. And in this post, our aim is to remove any confusion during your decision making process.
Below we will cover:
- The short version; our best boiler brands post at a glance
- The best and most reliable combi boiler brands available in the UK
- Examples of the most reliable combi boilers
- Our pick for the overall best boiler brand
The Short Version: The Best & Most Reliable Boiler Brands
At dwellow, we know the frustration of buying a new boiler isnt just the expense, its the time. If youre strapped for time, simply bookmark this page for later, and read this summary which quickly outlines the whole post.
There are hundreds of boilers, offered by dozens of brands, with varied warranties and at different price points. So which one is the best boiler brand? And which one is suitable for your home?
Put simply, its not a one size fits all approach. The size of your heating run, amount of radiators, bathtubs, showers and more, all have an impact on which is going to be the best combi boiler brand for you to choose.
The main focus here should be on warranty. A boiler manufacturer (or fitter for that matter) offering a 1-2 year warranty doesnt instil us with much confidence. And also look out for some fitters who ask for extra to extend your warranty.
We ONLY fit boilers from the top manufacturers and they come with a 7-12 year warranty included in your fixed price. These brands include:
- Alpha
- Ideal
- Vaillant
- Viessmann
- Worcester Bosch.
From these top brands, our favourite boilers are:
- Alpa E-Tec
- Ideal Logic Plus
- Vaillant EcoTec
- Viessmann Vitodens
- Worcester Bosch Life.
And to make things easy, weve created a clickable form that takes less than 60 seconds to complete.
Click a couple of options relating to your property, and get competitive fixed prices on the most reliable boilers. Whether youve got a 3-bed semi or a 5-bed detached, our tool specs up the most suitable unit for your property.
The 5 Most Reliable Combi Boiler Brands
Below we give an overview of the 5 most reliable combi boiler brands, all come with extensive warranties.
Whether you decide to pick from this list or not, we cant stress how important warranty is. Youll want to pick a boiler that has a minimum of 10 years (more if possible). And this is what we provide when installing any of the 5 brands we mention below.
(1) Alpha
Alpha is a combi boiler brand that needs little introduction in the UK, offered by most reputable boiler fitters and plumbing merchants.
One of their most reliable boilers is the Alpha E-Tec Plus, which isn't just "Good Homes Approved", it also comes with a 10 year warranty as standard.
The company has sold over 8,000,000 boilers to date in 30 different countries, leading to a wealth of positive reviews both on and offline. With over 5,000 reviews on Alpha reviews on Trustpilot, they average 4.6/5 stars, making this one of the most popular boiler manufacturers in the UK.
(2) Ideal Heating
Like Alpha, you'll struggle to find a fitter or plumbing merchant that doesn't supply combi boilers from Ideal Heating. With over 100 years in the industry, they're established as one of the market leaders. And that's not just in terms of sales figures, theyre known for producing some of the most reliable combi boilers in the UK. All of our Ideal boilers come with a 10-year warranty!
Similar to other brands in our list, Ideal Heating has won a raft of awards, including prestigious ones from Good Housekeeping and the Heating & Plumbing Monthly. They continue to win awards year on year.
Awards are great, but realistically, you want to see what customers of Ideal Heating have to say.
Ideal Heating has nearly 43,000 reviews on Trustpilot with an average of 4.8/5 stars. In comparison, a couple of manufacturers not mentioned on this list (boiler brands to avoid, basically), are down at 3.6-3.9 stars on their Trustpilot review page.
(3) Vaillant
When people think of boiler brands, typically they'd think of Worcester Bosch. Vaillant being one of Worcester Bosch's main competitors for decades speaks to the quality of the boilers they're producing. Alongside that, they've been one of the big innovators in the air source heat pump space.
One of the most reliable and best combi boilers coming out of the Vaillant factory right now, is the Vaillant EcoTec. Whilst this only comes with a standard 5-year warranty, fitted using a dwellow installer gets that warranty boosted to a massive 10-years...and we like big warranties!
As with all boiler manufacturers on this list, Vaillant has thousands of positive reviews on Trustpilot; over 20,000 averaging 4.4/5 stars.
(4) Viessmann
Viessmann are typically a brand that's lesser known by the general public, and are completely underrated. What that does mean is you'll be getting plenty of bang for your buck, from a manufacturer with over 100 years experience in the heating sector.
Among their range, the Viessmann Vitodens combi boiler is the most reliable, and the most popular. From your average local fitter, you'll get a 7-year warranty as standard. As with all of our boiler installations, we'll bump this warranty to 10-years (and in some cases even 12-years!) for all dwellow customers buying a new Viessmann boiler.
In comparison to the likes of Ideal Heating (4.8/5 stars), Viessmann definitely is lagging on Trustpilot. That said, a lot of the negative reviews seem to be installer related rather than brand/quality related.
(5) Worcester
Finally, we have Worcester Bosch. For decades Worcester Bosch has been the go-to manufacturer and one of the best boiler brands in the UK.
And similar to Vaillant in the air source space, they're an innovator. Boilers such as their Greenstar Life Combis are able to run on a 20% hydrogen blend.
Interestingly, but not the most important fact. As standard many of Worcester Bosch' combi boilers come with a standard 10-year warranty.
Trustpilot shows Worcester as sitting in the mid-high range of the best boiler brands on this list, with over 42,000 reviews averaging 4.6/5 stars.
Boiler Brands You Should Avoid!
Without naming any names, you should focus on one simple thing when choosing a boiler; warranty.
Our experience suggests warranty really does reflect the quality and reliability of a boiler. Or at the very least, if it is unreliable for whatever reason youve got the peace of mind of a parts and labour warranty (and not a crazy repair bill instead).
But, whats the average warranty? And what kind of warranty do you really need?
Up until a few years ago, 5-years was a more than respectable warranty. As boiler reliability has improved, typical warranties are between 7-10 years, with some being as high as 12.
Put simply, the combi boilers you should avoid are ones offering less than 5-years warranty.
Sure, you may save £100-200 initially on your installation, but those savings are quickly going to get swallowed up by repairs (a simple repair could be £150-300+), and even more so when the inevitable happens; you need to replace your cheap boiler for a new, reliable one.
Conclusion: Which is The Best Boiler Brand Overall?
Our list of the 5 most reliable and best boiler brands may seem limited, but weve chosen to only fit combi boilers from the top manufacturers (the 5 on this list). These are all brands wed be more than happy being installed in our own homes!
Whilst the brands are on-par in terms of reliability, they all offer different solutions for different types of homes. The best combi boiler brand for a 3-bed semi with one shower, is not going to be the same as a 2-bed detached with two showers.
And thats why we created our 60 second clickable boiler installation form. Using that, click a couple of options and youll have the most suitable boilers listed on-screen (or via if you prefer) within 60 seconds, all at massively competitive prices.
Still unsure about which is the best combi boiler for your property? Get in touch via our contact form and one of our team will steer you in the right direction.
Best Boiler Brands UK - Top 5 Boiler Manufacturers
Try a new boiler quote , finance available including 0% APR.
Picture this: you're comfortably seated in your favorite chair, enjoying a hot cup of tea while rain falls outside. You feel warm and content, but suddenly, your boiler stops working. The comfortable atmosphere quickly turns cold. Don't worry, iHeat is here to help you find the best boiler brands available.
Join us as we navigate the vast market options. Our research has identified top-performing brands that are efficient, reliable, and offer great value.
Additionally, we'll discuss brands that provide substantial warranties. Read on as we introduce you to the top boilers for every homeowner.
Whether you're a first-time buyer or an experienced homeowner looking for new boiler costs, we aim to help you find the best boiler brand.
Prepare yourself for an informative journey through the world of these essential home appliances.
Need a new boiler?
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0% APR finance available.
How do you decide on the best boiler brand?
With many boiler brands vying for your attention, selecting the perfect one may feel daunting. Fear not, for we have distilled the essence of this complex decision into five key factors to consider when having a new boiler installation.
Armed with this knowledge, you'll be well-equipped to navigate the enchanting labyrinth of boiler brands confidently.
Efficiency
Energy efficiency is The cornerstone of any boiler worth its salt. The higher the efficiency rating, the more heat you get for your hard-earned pounds.
Furthermore, eco-friendly models are gentler on our precious planet. Keep an eye out for the Seasonal Efficiency of Domestic Boilers in the UK (SEDBUK) rating or the ErP rating; the higher, the better.
Reliability
In the realm of boilers, dependability is the game's name. A trusty boiler ensures your home remains a toasty sanctuary and saves you from the dreaded experience of unexpected repairs.
Dig into customer reviews, testimonials, and surveys to unearth those rare boiler brands that balance performance and reliability perfectly.
Price and value for money
Regarding boilers, the age-old adage rings true: you get what you pay for. However, that doesn't mean you must splurge on a boiler with all the bells and whistles.
Seek out that sweet spot where quality and affordability intertwine, and you'll find a boiler that delivers bang for your buck.
Warranty and after-sales support
The boiler market can be treacherous, fraught with hidden pitfalls. A robust warranty is your trusty shield, protecting you from unforeseen calamities.
Top-notch after-sales support ensures you'll never be left out in the cold.
Seek boiler brands with a proven track record of excellent customer service, and you'll sleep soundly knowing you're in safe hands.
Range of products and compatibility
Each home is a unique tapestry of heating needs and preferences. A boiler brand that caters to diverse requirements is like a veritable treasure chest, ensuring you'll find a model that fits your home like a glove.
Explore each brand's offerings, and let your intuition guide you towards the one that speaks to your heart.
Let these factors be your compass, leading you through the enchanting world of boiler brands. By considering efficiency, reliability, price, warranty, and product range, you'll be well on your way to uncovering the boiler brand of your dreams.
Worcester Bosch
Overview and history:
Founded in , Worcester Bosch has become a household name in the UK for their top-notch heating and hot water products.
This British boiler brand has built a solid reputation for providing reliable and energy-efficient boilers, with a particular focus on innovation and customer satisfaction.
Worcester Bosch became a part of the Bosch Group in , further strengthening its position in the market.
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Efficiency and performance
Worcester Bosch boilers consistently score high in efficiency ratings, with many models in their Greenstar range boasting an ErP rating of 'A' for heating and hot water.
Their condensing technology ensures that the boilers extract the maximum heat from the fuel, making them highly cost-effective and environmentally friendly.
Reliability and customer satisfaction
Worcester Bosch boilers are known for their exceptional reliability and longevity, making them a popular choice among homeowners and heating engineers.
The boiler brand has consistently been awarded the Which? Best Buy title reflects their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.
Price range and value for money
While Worcester Bosch boilers may come with a slightly higher price tag than some competitors, their reputation for quality and reliability makes them a worthwhile investment.
With a range of products catering to different budgets, Worcester Bosch offers excellent value for money in the long run.
Warranty and after-sales support
Worcester Bosch provides extensive warranties on their boilers, with some models offering up to 10 years of cover when installed by a Worcester Accredited Installer.
Their after-sales support is highly regarded, with a dedicated customer service team and a nationwide network of service engineers ready to assist when needed.
Popular models and their features
The best Worcester boiler for you will depend on your home's size and your heating and hot water needs.
Some popular models in the Worcester Bosch range include:
Model
Benefits
Worcester Bosch
A compact and efficient combi boiler ideal for small to medium-sized homes.
Worcester Bosch
A slightly smaller version of the older Greenstar i, suitable for homes with limited space.
Greenstar CDi
A high-performance combi boiler designed for larger homes with multiple bathrooms.
Worcester Bosch's unwavering commitment to quality and innovation makes them a top choice for homeowners seeking a reliable and efficient boiler for their home.
Vaillant
Overview and history
Vaillant, a German company founded in , has become a leading boiler brand in the UK and Europe. Known for their pioneering spirit, Vaillant introduced the first-ever gas-fired central heating system and the combi boiler, which revolutionised the heating industry.
Their strong focus on innovation and sustainability has made them preferred for eco-friendly and energy-efficient heating solutions.
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Efficiency and performance
Vaillant boilers consistently achieve high-efficiency ratings, with many models sporting an ErP 'A' rating for heating and hot water.
Their ecoTEC range of boilers boasts advanced condensing technology, ensuring optimal energy usage and reduced emissions.
Reliability and customer satisfaction
Vaillant is renowned for its reliability and high-quality products. The boiler brand has received numerous accolades and awards, including Which? Best Buy titles.
Vaillant boilers are known for their exceptional performance and customer satisfaction, making them popular among homeowners and engineers.
Price range and value for money
While Vaillant boilers might be slightly more expensive than some competitors, their reputation for quality, performance, and reliability makes them a wise investment.
FuShiDe Boiler supply professional and honest service.
With a range of models catering to various budgets, Vaillant offers excellent value for money in the long run.
Warranty and after-sales support
Vaillant provides comprehensive warranties on their boilers, with some models offering up to 10 years of cover when installed by a Vaillant Advance installer.
Their after-sales support is highly regarded, with a dedicated customer service team and a nationwide network of service engineers ready to assist when needed.
Popular models and their features
Some popular models in the Vaillant range include:
ecoTEC Pro: A compact and efficient combi boiler suitable for small to medium-sized homes.
ecoTEC Plus (new): A versatile combi boiler designed for larger homes, available in various heating outputs.
ecoTEC Exclusive Green iQ: A high-performance combi boiler with advanced energy-saving features and smart home compatibility.
ecoFIT Pure: A cost-effective and compact combi, system, or regular boiler option for homes with limited space.
Vaillant's dedication to innovation, sustainability, and customer satisfaction makes them a top contender for homeowners seeking a high-quality, reliable, and energy-efficient boiler.
Alpha
Overview and history-
Alpha, a UK-based company, has been providing heating solutions since the s. Alpha has become a prominent name in the boiler market with a strong focus on innovation, energy efficiency, and quality.
The boiler brand offers a wide range of heating products, including combi, system, and regular boilers, catering to various customer needs and preferences.
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Efficiency and performance
Alpha boilers are known for their energy efficiency and impressive performance. Many models feature an ErP 'A' rating for heating and hot water, ensuring reduced energy bills and a smaller carbon footprint.
Alpha's boilers utilise advanced technology to deliver optimal heating and hot water performance.
Reliability and customer satisfaction
Alpha has built a solid reputation for providing reliable, high-quality boilers. Their products are designed to last, and are committed to delivering an exceptional customer experience.
Alpha's strong track record of customer satisfaction makes them a popular choice among homeowners and heating engineers.
Price range and value for money
Alpha offers a competitive price range, making their boilers an attractive option for homeowners on a budget. Despite their affordability, Alpha does not compromise on quality or performance, ensuring excellent value for money.
Warranty and after-sales support
Alpha provides comprehensive warranties on their boilers, with some models offering up to 10 years of cover when installed by an Alpha Approved Installer.
Their after-sales support is highly regarded, with a dedicated customer service team and a nationwide network of service engineers ready to assist when needed.
Popular models and their features
Some popular models in the Alpha range include:
E-Tec: A compact and efficient combi boiler ideal for small to medium-sized homes.
Evoke A stylish and compact combi boiler with a user-friendly interface and excellent energy efficiency.
Intec2 XE: A reliable and efficient system boiler suitable for larger homes with multiple bathrooms.
InTec GS: A high-performance gas-saver combi boiler that maximises energy savings with an integrated GasSaver unit.
Alpha's commitment to innovation, affordability, and customer satisfaction makes them an appealing option for homeowners seeking a reliable, efficient, and budget-friendly boiler for their home.
Viessmann
Overview and history
Founded in , Viessmann is a German manufacturer with a strong presence in the UK and worldwide. Known for its cutting-edge technology and commitment to sustainability, Viessmann offers a wide range of energy-efficient boilers, including combi, system, and regular boilers.
They are dedicated to providing innovative heating solutions that cater to various customer needs and preferences.
Get a quote
Efficiency and performance
Viessmann boilers are renowned for their high efficiency and outstanding performance. Many models feature an ErP 'A' rating for heating and hot water, ensuring reduced energy bills and a smaller carbon footprint.
Viessmann's boilers incorporate advanced technology, such as their patented Inox-Radial stainless steel heat exchanger, which delivers optimal heating and hot water performance.
Reliability and customer satisfaction
Viessmann is known for its reliable and high-quality boilers, which have earned them numerous awards and accolades, including Which? Best Buy titles.
Viessmann's strong track record of customer satisfaction makes them a popular choice among homeowners and heating engineers.
Price range and value for money
While Viessmann boilers might come at a slightly higher price point than some competitors, their reputation for quality, performance, and reliability makes them a worthwhile investment.
With a range of models catering to various budgets, Viessmann offers excellent value for money in the long run.
Warranty and after-sales support
Viessmann provides comprehensive warranties on their boilers, with some models offering up to 10 years of cover when installed by a Viessmann Trained Installer.
Their after-sales support is highly regarded, with a dedicated customer service team and a nationwide network of service engineers ready to assist when needed.
Popular models and their features
Some popular models in the Viessmann range include:
Vitodens 050-W: A compact and efficient combi boiler suitable for small to medium-sized homes.
Vitodens 100-W: A versatile combi boiler available in various heating outputs, designed for larger homes.
Vitodens 200-W: A high-performance combi boiler with advanced energy-saving features and smart home compatibility.
Vitodens 300-W: A premium wall-mounted gas condensing boiler that offers maximum comfort, efficiency, and performance.
Viessmann's dedication to innovation, sustainability, and customer satisfaction makes them a top contender for homeowners seeking a high-quality, reliable, and energy-efficient boiler.
Ideal
Overview and history
Ideal, a UK-based company founded in , has become a prominent boiler brand with a strong presence in the UK market.
Their commitment to innovation, quality, and reliability has made them a preferred choice among homeowners and heating engineers.
Ideal offers a wide range of heating products, including combi, system, and regular boilers, catering to various customer needs and preferences.
Get a quote
Efficiency and performance
Ideal boilers are known for their energy efficiency and impressive performance. Many models feature an ErP 'A' rating for heating and hot water, ensuring reduced energy bills and a smaller carbon footprint. Ideal's boilers utilise advanced technology to deliver optimal heating and hot water performance.
Reliability and customer satisfaction
Ideal has built a solid reputation for providing reliable, high-quality boilers. Their products are designed to last and are committed to delivering an exceptional customer experience.
Ideal's strong track record of customer satisfaction makes them a popular choice among homeowners and heating engineers.
Price range and value for money
Ideal offers a competitive price range, making their boilers an attractive option for homeowners on a budget. Despite their affordability, Ideal does not compromise on quality or performance, ensuring excellent value for money.
Warranty and after-sales support
Ideal provides comprehensive warranties on their boilers, with some models offering up to 10 years of cover when installed by an Ideal Accredited Installer.
Their after-sales support is highly regarded, with a dedicated customer service team and a nationwide network of service engineers ready to assist when needed.
Popular models and their features
Some popular models in the Ideal range include:
Logic+: A compact and efficient combi boiler ideal for small to medium-sized homes.
Vogue Max: A premium combi boiler with a stainless-steel heat exchanger and advanced energy-saving features.
Logic Max: A reliable and efficient system boiler suitable for larger homes with multiple bathrooms.
Mexico HE: A high-performance floor-standing heat-only boiler that offers exceptional performance and flexibility.
Ideal's commitment to innovation, affordability, and customer satisfaction makes them an appealing option for homeowners seeking a reliable, efficient, and budget-friendly boiler for their home.
Honourable Mentions
Baxi
Baxi is a well-established UK boiler brand with a long history in the boiler industry. Known for their high-quality and reliable boilers, Baxi offers a range of energy-efficient combi, system, and heat-only boilers suitable for various homes.
Their Duo-tec, Megaflo, and Platinum series are popular choices among homeowners, providing excellent value for money.
Glow-worm
Glow-worm is another British boiler brand with a solid reputation for producing reliable and efficient boilers.
Their Energy, Ultimate, and Betacom series cater to a wide range of customer needs and budgets, making them an attractive option for homeowners seeking a cost-effective heating solution.
Ariston
Ariston, an Italian boiler brand, offers a selection of energy-efficient and reliable combi, system, and regular boilers.
Their Clas, E-Combi, and Genus series are well-regarded in the UK market, providing homeowners with excellent performance and value for money.
Potterton
Potterton is a UK-based company with a long history in the heating industry. Known for its durable and efficient boilers, Potterton offers a range of products to suit various needs and budgets.
Their Titanium, Gold, and Promax series are popular among homeowners and heating engineers.
These honourable mentions and the top five boiler brands discussed earlier provide homeowners with many options for selecting the best boiler brand for their needs.
It's always a good idea to research and consult with professionals to ensure you make the most informed decision for your home.
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Conclusion: Making the Right Choice for Your Home
Selecting the best boiler brand for your home is a crucial decision that requires careful consideration of various factors, including efficiency, reliability, performance, and value for money.
The top five boiler brands we've discussed Worcester Bosch, Vaillant, Alpha, Viessmann, and Ideal all offer a diverse range of models and features to cater to different needs and preferences.
As a homeowner, it's essential to assess your requirements, such as your home's size, layout, and heating demands, before deciding.
It's also wise to consult with a professional heating engineer or installer to get their expert opinion on which boiler brand and model would best suit your home.
Don't forget to consider each boiler brand's warranty, after-sales support, and customer satisfaction ratings, as these factors can significantly impact your overall experience as a boiler owner.
At iHeat, we understand the importance of making an informed decision when choosing the right boiler brand for your home.
Our team of experts is always on hand to provide guidance and support, helping you find the perfect boiler to meet your needs and keep your home warm and comfortable for years.
So, why not contact us today and help us find the ideal boiler for your home?
With iHeat, you can rest assured that you're in good hands and that your home's heating needs will be handled with the best boiler brands available.
Tips for Making the Right Choice
When choosing the best boiler brand for your home, it's essential to consider several factors to ensure you make the most informed decision possible. Here are some tips to help you make the right choice:
Assess Your Specific Heating Needs and Preferences
Before selecting a boiler brand or model, take the time to evaluate your home's unique heating needs and preferences.
Consider factors such as the size and layout of your home, the number of rooms and bathrooms, and the overall heating demand.
This assessment will help you narrow down your options and choose a boiler that can effectively meet your requirements.
Consult with a Professional Engineer
Seeking advice from a qualified heating engineer or installer can provide valuable insights into which boiler brand and model best suits your home.
These professionals have extensive experience and knowledge of different boiler brands and their features, making them well-equipped to guide you in decision-making.
They can also help you determine the appropriate boiler size and type (combi, system, or regular) based on your needs.
Consider Long-Term Costs and Benefits
While the initial cost of a new boiler is certainly important, it's also essential to consider the long-term costs and benefits.
Energy efficiency, reliability, and durability factors can significantly impact your ongoing energy bills and maintenance expenses.
Investing in a high-quality, energy-efficient boiler may cost more upfront but could save you money in the long run through reduced energy consumption and fewer repairs.
Look for Customer Reviews and Testimonials
Customer reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the boiler brands' real-world performance, reliability, and customer satisfaction.
Review reviews and gather opinions from friends, family, and neighbours who have experience with various boiler brands.
This information can help you make a more informed decision and choose a boiler with a proven track record of delivering excellent results for homeowners like you.
By considering these tips and weighing your options carefully, you can select a boiler brand that meets your needs and preferences.
iHeat New Boiler Costs
Boilers can be a daunting purchase for many people as theyre an appliance with a lot of responsibility, providing heat for you and your family is something you want to get right. Boilers arent exactly a quickly disposable item either, potentially lasting you a decade.
Effectively, new boiler cost can be split into two segments: the first is the actual boiler itself (unit price), and the second is the cost of the boiler being installed (set up) in your property by an expert engineer.
Here at iHeat, we want to remove all of this undue stress and make the decision making process of upgrading to a new central heating system, as easy as possible.
Boiler costs can vary depending on a number of factors including their brand, model, fuel, output, warranty, labour and installation type. Typically a new boiler will cost between £1,845 and £3,500, below is a list of average boiler installations offered by iHeat (guide only).
For more information, please visit Vacuum Boiler.
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