Domestic Boilers Vs – Commercial Boilers – What’s the Difference?

If you’ve been looking into purchasing a new heating device, then there is a good chance that you may have come across the terms “domestic boilers” and “commercial boilers”. You might be wondering what the difference between these two types of appliances is? They differ in size and functionality. The Boiler Repair is also different for each type.

In truth, it isn’t uncommon for people confuse when they hear both of these terms. After all, they both sound like the same thing. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth! Let us explain…

Domestic Boilers

A domestic boiler is exactly as its name suggests. People use them in private homes for supplying hot water and heating to properties where there aren’t multiple occupants who want their heating systems installed. Domestic boiler prices are very competitive, and they are simple to use. A domestic boiler only suits one home.

Uses:

Domestic boilers are a good option for heating your home and providing hot water. This means that you can use them in multiple situations:

1) Domestic (household) hot water and heating – suitable for one household only.

2) Heating a house and a few other homes on the same property (e.g., flats etc.)

3) Servicing two or three houses with heat and hot water (can’t produce enough to service more than 2-3 properties).

4) Supplying heat, hot water, and centralized underfloor heating if linked together correctly.

Key Features of a Domestic Boiler:

A domestic boiler is best known for its simple functionality. They are generally low maintenance, easy to use, and relatively cheap to run. That said, they are not the most powerful option available for heating water in your house. Depending on which you prefer, you can use them either with or without a central heating system. This type of boiler only functions under certain circumstances; however, many households make use of this kind of boiler because it is easy to understand and can serve its purpose well (heating up water).

Domestic boilers do come in multiple shapes and sizes, but there are 2 types that you will find frequently:

1) Central Heating System Domestic Boilers-

These units often have an integrated pump meaning that they can produce hot water from a tank or cylinder when the water heater is running after the central heating has Domestic Boilers Vs. Commercial Boilers – What’s the Difference?

Been on for a while. Under no circumstances should you attempt to use the domestic hot water tank in conjunction with your central heating system because this will cause damage and can be dangerous if you do not know what you are doing.

2) Direct Fired Domestic Boilers

These units, as the name suggests, run directly from the fuel source (usually oil or gas). They lack insulation and often require fans to circulate air inside them which improves efficiency and performance. This ensures that heat is distributed equally throughout the boiler, and since the fan takes up some of the excess heat, it reduces how much fuel we need to produce enough heat for our home. The unit itself is usually made out of steel or stainless steel; however, copper can also be used for

Commercial Boilers

A commercial boiler is a large, more powerful version of a domestic boiler. They can heat a much larger building, making them ideal for offices, hospitals, and big businesses where many occupants need hot water throughout the day. Because of their size, they cost more than domestic boilers, but they do have the advantage of being easier to maintain as most models come with self-diagnostics systems that alert you when parts need replacing or servicing – this often extends the length. Of time between general servicing appointments too!

Uses:

Commercial boilers are made for use by companies where at least four people need access to hot water or central heating. They can be used domestically, too; however, because of their size, they usually cost more to run than smaller units and need more space to install.

Key Features of a Commercial Boiler:

Size

Commercial boilers are designed to produce more hot water faster than domestic boilers. Larger models can generate around 70 liters of water per minute, while smaller models typically produce 40 liters per minute.

Self-Diagnostics System

Most models have a system that alerts you when parts need replacing or servicing. This often extends the length of time between general servicing appointments, too, saving you money in the long run!

Pre-Assembled Models

Like I mentioned earlier, commercial boilers are usually made for use by companies where there are at least four people needing access to hot water or central heating. Because of this, they are generally pre-assembled and come with easy step-by-installation guides that make it much easier to get up and to run as quickly as possible.

Similarities to a Domestic Boiler

There are several similarities between commercial boilers and domestic boilers. Both units output hot water that can be used for washing, cleaning, dishwashing, and many other tasks around the home or office. Some models even have an ‘energy saving’ setting which ensures you’re only using the energy you need to heat the amount of water you want – meaning lower bills! A few also provide instant hot water like a combo boiler but without requiring one (a heating system is still needed).

Differences Between Domestic Vs. Commercial Boiler

All the above points are true. However, there are also some important differences between domestic and commercial boilers that set them apart. Commercial boiler units tend to be larger than their domestic counterparts because there is a greater need for hot water. For example, if you wanted to run your home with just one shower at once, an electric shower would suffice because it uses less energy than your standard gas boiler. However, having even one bath or washing machine running simultaneously means you’d need something much bigger!

Conclusion:

The boilers available today suit both domestic and commercial properties. However, if you are planning on using your boiler 24 hours a day with large amounts of hot water being use at any one time, then it is advisable to go for a commercial unit.

Before buying any type of boiler, get some professional advice from a local boiler installation company such as Le High HVAC. They will come and look at your requirements and fit the correct type of unit to suit your needs.