In the UK, the most common type of boiler in use is the combination, orcombi boiler. These usually come in one of three typical controlconfigurations. The first type comes with a standard timerpre-installed, which cannot be changed or replaced. The second type canbe fitted with any compatible fascia-mounted timer. The third type canonly use remotely mounted controls plugged into the boiler via a cable.

Since April 1 2005, all new boiler installations in the UK havehad to, by law, come equipped with at least a minimum level of energyconserving features and controls. Modern controls manage both theboiler and the central heating system. Whereas larger multi-componentboilers have controls which operate both the hot water and the centralheating, combi boilers only have controls for altering the roomtemperature, as the hot tap water is heated using the heat from thecentral heating system.

Thermostatic Radiator Valves, oftenreferred to as TRVs, help to keep temperature levels within a pre setrange by measuring the room temperature and turning the radiator on andoff as required.

Before splashing out on a new boiler andcentral heating system, it is a good idea to think about where you aregoing to put the boiler. For example, if your boiler is going to be ina loft or an airing cupboard where access is relatively restricted, itwould be better to go for remotely mounted control set, whereas if itwas mounted in the kitchen, fascia mounted controls would probably be abetter and cheaper option. In any case, it is important to choose aboiler that can accept the type of controls that you will require.

Boilersthat can accept external controls that plug into the front fasciaconnect to the thermostat via the sending and receiving of RF signals,whereas remote controls tend to have the thermostat integrated with thetimer, although this arrangement entails a greater amount of wiring andpotential disruption for the occupants of the property duringinstallation.

Although buying a boiler with an integral timermay work out a little bit cheaper in the short term, it could turn outto be a false economy in the longer term, as you will be unable toupgrade or replace the units separately if either should become brokenor outmoded.

British Gas can help you to save money on a new boiler installation. Gas Safe old boiler with one of our central heating boilers such as the energy efficient range of Worcester boilers, you could save up to 40% on your bills.