The Alpha E-Tec Combi is an extremely compact space-saving boiler that’s ideal for small to medium-sized homes
Not only is the E-Tec Combi the newest addition to Alpha’s combi boiler range but it’s also the smallest boiler the brand has ever manufactured. In addition to being small enough to neatly fit inside a standard kitchen cupboard, the Alpha E-Tec Combi features a new stainless steel heat exchanger to help increase the life of the boiler and provide long-term value for money. What’s more, this boiler is available in two outputs to meet the needs of small to medium-sized homes.
How Much Does this Boiler Cost?
The Alpha E-Tec Combi can be purchased with an output of 28kW or 33kW, with the former output option being slightly cheaper than the latter one. On Average, the cost of an Alpha E-Tec Combi boiler is between £590 and £738, depending on which output you require. While these prices do include VAT, they don’t include the cost of installation, which can set you back anything from £500.
How will I know if this Boiler is Suitable for My Home?
Like all other gas combi boilers, the Alpha E-Tec Combi works by taking water directly from the mains to heat radiators and provide instant hot water to taps. As combi boilers struggle to keep up with multiple baths or showers running at the same time, this boiler is designed to be installed in small to medium-sized homes and properties with no more than one bathroom. By being a compact boiler with the capability to deliver heating and hot water without the need for additional tanks or a cylinder, the Alpha E-Tec combi is also a good choice for homes with limited storage space.
If you’re unsure whether the Alpha E-Tec Combi is the right choice for your home and requirements, be sure to get help and advice from a Gas Safe registered engineer.
Is it a High Efficiency Boiler?
Yes, the Alpha E-Tec Combi is an A-rated high-performance boiler with a high-efficiency Grundfos pump and hydroblock assembly, which means the boiler will use as little energy as possible to meet your heating and hot water demand. The pump is a clever little thing as it learns your habits and automatically adapts to your hot water consumption pattern, helping to reduce running costs too.
Does this Boiler have a Good Range of Controls and Features?
The Alpha E-Tec Combi comes with all the usual stuff, such as a visible pressure gauge and an easy to access and use control panel. Like we mentioned before, it has a highly durable stainless steel heat exchanger and a high-efficiency Grundfos pump, which is pretty generous when you considered the price of the E-Tec Combi. The boiler also has a hot water flow rate of 12.1 or 14.1 (depending on output) and a zinc-plated expansion vessel to prevent corrosion and therefore help prolong the lifespan of the boiler.
How long is the Warranty on this Boiler?
Alpha offers a 7-year warranty on its E-Tec Combi to give you peace of mind that you’ll be covered should anything go wrong during the first seven years of ownership.
Summary of Important Information
- Expect to pay between £590 and £738
- Heating output of 28kW or 33kW
- Hot water flow rates of 12.1 or 14.1 litres per minute
- Dimensions of 712mm (H) x 440mm (W) x 255mm (D)
- Uses gas as its fuel source
- A-rated for efficiency
- 7-year warranty as standard
Pros and Cons
The Alpha E-Tec Combi is a budget-friendly boiler and a great choice for small to medium households looking for an efficient combi that works hard to not waste energy. Keep scrolling to read our full list of pros and cons.
Pros
- Considerably cheaper than some other gas boiler brands
- Suited to small and medium-sized homes
- Easy to install, use and service
- Stainless steel heat exchanger – maximises longevity, reliability and efficiency
- Grundfos pump – reduces energy use and fuel bills
- Zinc-plated expansion vessel to prevent corrosion
- Provides maximum energy efficiency – reduce fuel bills and carbon emissions
- Compatible with a range of Alpha controls – improves efficiency and performance
- Excellent rating on Trustpilot – correct at time of writing in November 2020
- 7-year warranty
Cons
- Alpha has an overall Which? score of 45%