The Ultimate Guide to Boilers & Heating Systems: What You Need to Know

Having an efficient and reliable heating system is essential. Whether you're deciding between a gas or electric boiler, dealing with pressure loss, or considering a heat pump as an alternative, understanding your options can help you make the right choice for your home. In this guide, we break down the key considerations for boilers and heating systems to keep your home warm and energy-efficient.

Boiler Efficiency Myths: What’s True and What’s Not?

When it comes to boilers, there are many misconceptions about efficiency and maintenance. Here are some common myths debunked:

• Myth 1: New boilers don’t need servicing – Even the most modern, energy-efficient boilers require annual maintenance to ensure they are working correctly and safely.

• Myth 2: Bigger boilers mean better heating – Oversized boilers can lead to inefficiency and wasted energy, while undersized boilers may struggle to meet heating demands.

• Myth 3: Turning up the thermostat heats your home faster – Boilers heat at a set rate. Raising the thermostat only makes the system run longer, not faster.

• Myth 4: All boilers are the same – The type of boiler you choose (combi, system, or conventional) impacts efficiency, cost, and suitability for your home.

Regular servicing, correct boiler sizing, and efficient usage can significantly reduce energy bills and improve system longevity.

Gas vs. Electric Boilers: Which One Is Right for Your Home?

Choosing between a gas and an electric boiler depends on your home’s energy setup, running costs, and efficiency goals. Here’s a comparison:

Gas Boilers

✅ More cost-effective in areas with a mains gas supply

✅ Generally cheaper to run than electric boilers

✅ Suitable for high-demand households

❌ Require annual gas safety checks

❌ Produce carbon emissions, making them less eco-friendly

Electric Boilers

✅ 100% efficiency – all energy used is converted to heat

✅ No gas emissions, making them eco-friendly

✅ Compact and ideal for smaller homes

❌ Higher running costs compared to gas boilers

❌ May struggle with high-demand heating needs

For homeowners looking for a balance between cost and sustainability, heat pumps are becoming a popular alternative to traditional boilers.

Why Your Boiler Keeps Losing Pressure (And How to Fix It!)

Low boiler pressure is a common issue that can affect heating performance. Here’s what you need to know:

Causes of Boiler Pressure Loss

• Leaks – Even small leaks in the system can cause pressure to drop. Check for visible drips around radiators and pipework.

• Bleeding Radiators – If you've recently bled your radiators, air removal may have reduced system pressure.

• Faulty Pressure Relief Valve – If this valve is damaged, your boiler may be losing pressure faster than normal.

• Expansion Vessel Issues – If the expansion vessel inside the boiler fails, it can cause fluctuations in pressure.

How to Fix Low Boiler Pressure

1. Check for leaks – If you find one, call a professional engineer to repair it.

2. Repressurise the system – Most modern boilers have a filling loop that allows homeowners to top up pressure.

3. Get professional servicing – If pressure loss persists, booking a boiler inspection can prevent further damage.

Heat Pump vs. Boiler: Which Should You Choose?

With the push for greener heating solutions, heat pumps are becoming a popular alternative to traditional boilers. But how do they compare?

Boilers

• Work by burning gas or using electricity to heat water for radiators and taps.

• Cost-effective in homes connected to the gas grid.

• Require servicing and occasional replacement parts.

Heat Pumps

• Extract heat from the air or ground and use electricity to amplify it.

• Extremely energy-efficient, with potential savings on heating bills.

• Higher upfront costs but lower running costs in the long term.

For those looking to future-proof their home heating, heat pumps provide an eco-friendly solution. However, if you're after a straightforward, budget-friendly replacement, a high-efficiency boiler remains a great option.

Book Your Boiler Installation or Maintenance Today

If your boiler is outdated, inefficient, or experiencing frequent pressure drops, it might be time for an upgrade. At Jubo Services, we offer expert boiler installation and maintenance, ensuring your heating system runs smoothly all year round.

🔹 New boiler installations from £1,850

🔹 Professional servicing to extend your boiler’s lifespan

🔹 Advice on energy-efficient upgrades, including heat pumps

Don’t wait until the cold sets in – book your boiler service today! Learn more about our boiler services here.