Top 3 picks
Selecting the Top Boilers: What Criteria Do We Use?
Performance
Our assessment of combi boilers hinges on their heating capabilities.
We look at their ability to deliver steady and trustworthy warmth across the household.
Elements like heat production, modulation features, and reaction times are all pivotal in our evaluation.
Efficiency
Prioritising energy efficiency not only curtails fuel usage but also slashes energy expenses.
We rank boilers based on their efficiency metrics, favouring those models that excel in conserving energy.
Reliability
What do the customers say? Their insights and evaluations substantially influence our selection.
We gauge boilers on client satisfaction metrics, highlighting elements such as user-friendliness, overall functionality, and the quality of post-purchase support.
Customer Satisfaction
Customer feedback and reviews played a significant role in the selection process.
The boilers are evaluated based on customer satisfaction ratings, considering factors such as ease of use, overall performance, and after-sales support.
Top 5 Best Glow-worm Combi Boilers
WIth no further ado, let’s dive into our top Glow-worm boiler reviews!
1. Glow-worm Compact Combi
The Compact combi boiler is Glow-worm’s most compact and lightweight boiler.
It delivers big performance, and it’s highly reliable.
The Glow-worm compact comes in two sizes 24kW, and 28kW.
Most Recommended For
Flats and smaller homes with one bathroom.
Technical Details
Energy Rating: A
Efficiency Ratings: A
ErP efficiency: 92/93
PCDB seasonal efficiency: 88.6/88.9Hot Water Flow Rate: 9.9l/min – 11.5l/min (depending on model)
Warranty
5 years
Pros & Cons
Pros
- A rated efficiency
- Exceptionally quiet
- User-friendly LCD display
Cons
- Short Warranty
- No Smart controls
Price
- £1,100 - £1200
2. Glow-worm Compact Combi LPG
Overview
Just as with the gas-fueled Compact Combi the LPG version shares the title of smallest ever Glow-worm boiler sporting dimensions of 626 x 400 x 270.
And, as with the other Compact model, this too comes in two sizes of 24kW and 28kW.
In terms of design and control the Glow-worm Compact Combi LPG is identical including the legible LCD display and its compatibility with Glow-worm’s range of advanced controls, including the MiGo app-based control.
Most Recommended For
It’s an excellent choice for apartments and smaller homes with one bathroom seeking an alternative to oil or electric heating systems (potentially natural gas too).
Technical Details
Energy Rating: A
Efficiency Ratings: A
ErP efficiency: 91/93.2 (24kW/28kW)
Hot Water Flow Rate: 9.9 l/min – 11.5 l/min (depending on model)
Warranty
5 years standard
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Quiet mark accredited
- Affordable price point
- Compact size
Cons
- Wouldn’t be capable of providing heat and hot water to larger homes
- Not as advanced as budget boilers from other brands
Price
- £944.46 exc VAT (depending on model)
3. Glow-worm Energy Combi
Overview
The Energy combi boiler boasts an ErP A rating and is compact enough to seamlessly fit inside a standard kitchen cupboard.
The Energy series comes in three sizes 25kW, 30kW and 35kW.
This boiler offers a diverse range of outputs, features a sleek modern design, a vibrant user-friendly interface, and a variety of control options.
Most Recommended For
Medium sized homes with one bathroom.
Technical Details
Energy Rating: A
Efficiency Ratings: A
PCDB seasonal efficiency: 89.2
Hot Water Flow Rate: 12.1l/min – 16.5l/min (depending on model)
Warranty
7 years standard (up to 10 available)
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Quite Mark accredited
- Wireless connectivity
- Works with Glow-worm intelligent controls
Cons
- Not suitable for homes with heavy water use
- Programming the controls can be challenging
Price
- £790 - £920 (depending on model)
4. Glow-worm Ultimate₃ Combi
Overview
The Ultimate₃ combi boiler delivers central heating and instantaneous hot water, eliminating the necessity for storage tanks or cylinders.
The Ultimate₃ range comes in two sizes 30kW and 35kW.
It’s a combi boiler model that’s adaptable for diverse home sizes. Furthermore, its robust hot water flow rate guarantees consistent and dependable service for your household.
Most Recommended For
Ideally suited for small to medium sized homes with up to two bathrooms.
Technical Details
Energy Rating: A
Efficiency Ratings: A
PCDB seasonal efficiency: 89.6.89.7
Hot Water Flow Rate: 12.4l/min – 14.4l/min (depending on model)
Warranty
5 years standard (up to 10 available)
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Compatible with the full range of Glow-worm controls including MiGo App
- Grundfos modulating pump for reduced energy use
- Aluminium heat exchanger
Cons
- Slower to heat than some similar models
Price
- £1,205 – £1,775 (depending on model)
5. Glow-worm Easicom₃ Combi
Overview
The Easicom₃ boasts a premium-quality aluminium heat exchanger at its core, ensuring superior heating and hot water delivery for your residence.
The Easicom₃ range comes in two sizes 24kW and 28kW.
Its bright, legible LCD display makes programming a breeze and it’s also compatible with Glow-worm’s entire suite of advanced controls, including the widely-used MiGo app-based control.
Most Recommended For
It’s an excellent choice for apartments and smaller homes with one bathroom.
Technical Details
Energy Rating: A
Efficiency Ratings: A
PCDB seasonal efficiency: 89.6
Hot Water Flow Rate: 10 l/min – 11.7 l/min (depending on model)
Warranty
3 years standard (up to 5 available)
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Good Value
- Smart controls
- Quiet operation
Cons
- Short Warranty
- Energy or Ultimate₃ may be better value with their longer warranties
Price
- £1,414 - £1,965 (depending on model)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What makes combi boilers different from regular or system boilers?
Combi boilers, short for combination boilers, operate as both a central heating unit and a hot water heater in one.
Unlike regular or system boilers, they don’t require a separate hot water storage cylinder, saving space and ensuring instant hot water directly from the mains.
Are combi boilers more suitable for smaller households?
Yes, combi boilers are often recommended for smaller homes or apartments due to their compact size and the absence of a need for a hot water tank or cylinder.
Their design provides instant hot water, which is ideal for homes with limited hot water usage demands.
However, for larger homes with multiple bathrooms or high hot water usage, a system or regular boiler might be more appropriate.
Can I switch from a system boiler to a combi boiler?
It’s possible to switch from a system to a combi boiler, but the process involves some plumbing modifications.
The existing hot water cylinder and cold water storage tank (if you have one) will be removed, and new pipework may be required.
It’s crucial to consult with a qualified engineer to assess the feasibility and get an accurate quote for the switch.
Conclusion
Choosing the right combi boiler is pivotal for ensuring uninterrupted heating and a consistent supply of hot water in your home.
Glow-worm stands out as a premier brand in this field, offering a wide selection of boilers designed to fit various home sizes and needs.
From the dynamic Easicom₃ to the efficient Ultimate₃, Glow-worm has a boiler solution for every homeowner.
When considering a boiler upgrade or replacement, don’t miss the latest offerings from Glow-worm.
This blog was written in collaboration with Eddie Scoffin, the founder of Boiler Choice. Eddie has been installing boilers for over a decade. With a passion for excellence and customer satisfaction, Eddie’s leadership and expertise have been instrumental in the success of Boiler Choice. His commitment to making the boiler installation process hassle-free for customers has earned him a respected reputation in the industry.
Updated on September 26, 2023