Which Heating System Is Best for Your Home?

When it comes to heating, the advice for UK homeowners has shifted dramatically over the years—but are we really making the best choices?

Government guidance for new builds often promises energy savings and improved efficiency, yet the reality for homeowners and installers can feel like a maze of confusing upgrades, inconsistent support, and missed opportunities.

A Look Back: What Have We Learned?
Not long ago, cavity wall insulation was the go-to recommendation. But unless you qualified for a grant, you had to foot the bill yourself—paying for something your builder arguably should’ve included.

Double glazing was another must-have upgrade, yet even that didn’t become truly standard until recently. And let’s not forget the long-overdue addition of window vents, only made mandatory in 2024.

Central heating only became standard in the UK in the 1970s. Back then, we got giant floor-standing boilers, oversized hot water cylinders, and leaky loft tanks that doubled as swimming pools—for rats and birds. Meanwhile, the rest of the world had already moved on to sleeker, unvented systems.

The Combi Conundrum:
Then came the combi boiler revolution, with efficient models imported from Germany, France, and Italy. Installers loved them. Homeowners? Not so much—because water flow and pressure have remained an unsolved headache to this day. No government initiative has cracked that nut.

What's the Best Way to Heat Air?
Let’s face it: the point of central heating is simple—heat your air to a comfortable 18–22°C. So why are we still relying on radiators—arguably the least efficient and most costly method?

Countries like the USA, Canada, and Australia embraced warm air and air conditioning systems long ago, offering better comfort and efficiency. Meanwhile, most of Europe (including the UK) stuck with radiators—costly, slow, and outdated.

Now we’re being sold on Air Source Heat Pumps, with a £15K–£20K price tag that’s out of reach for most families—not to mention the noise and space issues. And solar panels? With costs starting at £2K per panel
(and six recommended), they’re hardly the magic bullet either.

Need Real Advice on Central Heating?
Whether you’re a homeowner or an installer, don’t get left in the cold. Our Central Heating Fault Finding book is packed with expert tips, simple testing techniques, and easy-to-follow guides for solving heating
issues—fast.

✅ Learn how your system works
✅ Diagnose problems with confidence
✅ Save money and stay warm

👉 Get the answers you're looking for—before winter hits.

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Website: mrcombi.com

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