PHAM NEWS | OCTOBER 2026 20 Gas & Oil Boilers


Key features to look for in smart boilers


As combi boilers evolve, more models now feature ‘smart’ technology. But which features off er genuine benefi ts rather than gimmicks? Neil Mattock from Vokèra examines what makes a high-performance, energy-effi cient and customer-friendly boiler, and the features that deliver real value.


M


ore than just app connectivity and intelligent controls, a


modern combi boiler should deliver measurable benefi ts to homeowners looking to manage energy use, while also making installation and servicing simpler for installers. Here are the fi ve key principles to consider when selecting a combi boiler.


1. Energy effi ciency The key effi ciency features to look for are range rating, a wide modulation ratio and a modulating pump. Not all boiler models include all three, so it’s worth studying the specifi cation. Where budget allows, a premium model incorporating all three can off er the greatest effi ciency benefi t. Wider range ratings and


lower, adjustable outputs are increasingly useful as homes become better insulated and heat loss reduces. Installers can lower the maximum heating output, often set to a factory default, to match the actual heating demand of a property while maintaining a high hot water output. Most modern condensing


combi boilers off er some modulation, but wider ratios can improve performance. Our Pinnacle range, for example, operates at a 1:13 modulation ratio, with some models achieving a minimum output of 1.77kW. Matching heat output to demand can reduce short- cycling and minimise wear on components such as the heat exchanger. Our Soft-Start feature is


designed to reduce unnecessary energy use when a boiler restarts on an already warm system. Available across all


Vokèra’s Pinnacle boiler


models, it begins heating at 60% of the range-rated capacity for the fi rst 15 minutes. If demand continues, output then increases in 10% increments every 10 minutes. This can reduce cycling losses and operating noise. The default anti-cycle delay


Neil Mattock Marketing director at Vokèra


can also be extended by up to 20 minutes, reducing unnecessary refi ring. During this period, the boiler remains off after reaching the set temperature while the circulator continues distributing water through the emitters. As water temperature falls, the next restart occurs at a lower temperature, supporting effi cient heat exchange. Digital modulating pumps are


Installers can lower the maximum heating output, often set to a factory default, to match the actual heating demand of a property while maintaining a high hot water output


replacing fi xed-speed pumps on many premium models. By automatically adjusting water fl ow to match system demand, they can reduce electricity use and energy waste while improving heat distribution. This combination of features allows installers to better match boiler performance to the property and system, helping maximise effi ciency without compromising hot water performance or comfort.


2. Connectivity OpenTherm, now an expected feature in most boilers, has made a big impact in delivering improved effi ciency in residential heating systems, off ering smarter temperature modulation and greater control for the installer and the customer. Boilers that are OpenTherm ready are usually compatible with the latest control technology and smart devices, leading to easier installation and reduced downtime. Remote app control off ers


some genuine benefi ts, from switching off heating remotely


if away from home to helping family members adjust settings for vulnerable occupants. Integration with Smart Home systems enables voice control features, which are appealing to customers. However, their impact on effi ciency is lower than features such as modulation and range rating. What is more useful is when controls communicate directly with the boiler via manufacturer APIs or OpenTherm, allowing heat output to respond more precisely to demand. For installers, the key is identifying customers who will use smart home integration fully, making the upsell worthwhile.


3. Smart system management Advanced diagnostics make faults easier to diagnose and resolve. Clear error codes help customers explain issues to installers, speeding up maintenance and reducing downtime. Service reminders, stop-for-service warnings and lockout features can also reduce the risk of missed servicing by making alerts much harder for homeowners or tenants to ignore – a particularly useful feature for landlords who need to demonstrate compliance. The introduction of multi-


zone control was a natural progression from temperature and time control, allowing homeowners to heat individual rooms to a specifi c temperature at diff erent times of day, and avoid wastage on heating unoccupied rooms.


4. User-friendly features Intuitive boiler controls and touchscreens that show information clearly and simple menu structures contribute to a better user experience. Features such as child locks,


large display text and multi- language options are widely available and can be matched to customer needs. We’re seeing quiet operation becoming increasingly important to customers, especially when a boiler is located in busy living spaces such as kitchens or living rooms. A Domestic Hot Water Lock,


as featured on all our current boilers, is a simple feature that can help improve control and effi ciency when commissioning or servicing. It is also a valuable safety feature if there are children or vulnerable occupants in the household.


5. Installer-friendly Lighter, more compact boilers are easier to install and more practical for customers. Clear internal layouts, easy access for servicing and repair, guided commissioning menus, universal connection kits, clearly labelled terminals, wiring diagrams on the inner panels and plug-in components can all reduce installation time and are just some features to look for as more manufacturers work to improve the installer experience. When selecting boiler


options, it’s important to identify solutions that are technologically advanced, but still user friendly. Overcomplicated features are harder for installers to demonstrate and less likely to be used eff ectively, reducing their value. Manufacturers continue to improve the effi ciency, performance and reliability of their boilers, together with high-quality components and advanced technology, make them smart in every sense and ensure they remain a relevant solution for millions of homes. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/1026/37


Page 1  |  Page 2  |  Page 3  |  Page 4  |  Page 5  |  Page 6  |  Page 7  |  Page 8  |  Page 9  |  Page 10  |  Page 11  |  Page 12  |  Page 13  |  Page 14  |  Page 15  |  Page 16  |  Page 17  |  Page 18  |  Page 19  |  Page 20  |  Page 21  |  Page 22  |  Page 23  |  Page 24  |  Page 25  |  Page 26  |  Page 27  |  Page 28  |  Page 29  |  Page 30  |  Page 31  |  Page 32  |  Page 33  |  Page 34  |  Page 35  |  Page 36  |  Page 37  |  Page 38  |  Page 39  |  Page 40