Are you looking for the perfect Vaillant boiler to provide great flow rates to your medium-large Edinburgh property, without taking up too much space?
Then you may already be considering the Vaillant EcoTEC Plus 838 combi boiler.
The good news is, I’m about to make the decision even easier for you by providing you with everything you need to know in the following review.
So, sit back, relax and let’s get started:
Introduction
Vaillant as a company are known for being very forward-thinking, (or, as the company itself likes to put it; ‘Vaillant thinks ahead’), which results in reliable, quality boilers that can last you decades.
In my eyes, they’re as good as Which ‘Best Buy’ Worcester Bosch), plus they’re also Quiet Mark accredited – so they’re actually one of the quietest boilers on the market (another huge plus point).
The EcoTEC Plus range delivers great performance – almost instant hot water – with a compact size, and no need to worry about extra storage tanks or cylinders taking up space!
So, without further ado, let’s take a closer look at the 838, shall we?
Output and flow rate
With a heating output of 28kw, this boiler provides ample power to heat your medium-to-large Edinburgh home, but what really puts this boiler above the rest is the fantastic flow rate.
The hot water output is an incredible 38kw, leading to a flow rate of 15.9 litres per minute to your taps. You can easily run two baths or two showers with this boiler.
However, I’d recommend getting a certified engineer to check your incoming water pressure before you decide to opt for this particular model, as you may not get the full benefit if your incoming pressure is too low.
Size and special features
At 720mm high, 406mm deep and 440mm wide, this boiler is a bit bigger than the EcoTEC Pro range (which can happily fit into a kitchen cupboard), however you won’t need any extra hot water or storage tanks so you’ll still save on space.
The 838 also has advanced modulation during periods of low heat demand (e.g 1-2 radiators on), which helps to ensure low energy consumption and maximum efficiency. Neat, eh?
Guarantee
Great news! The Vaillant EcoTEC Plus 838 comes with Vaillant’s brilliant 10-year guarantee (when fitted by an accredited installer) – plus, there’s no need to fit the company’s filter or controls in order to get your hands on that awesome deal.
Another reason I recommend Vaillant’s guarantees is that there’s no hidden small print or unexpected credit card charges to catch you out, unlike other similar boiler companies.
Vaillant also has its own dedicated engineers to attend call-outs if you ever need them, giving you ultimate peace of mind.
Tech specs
Below, you’ll find everything you need to know about the The Vaillant EcoTEC Plus 838:
- Heating output: 28kw
- Hot water output: 38kw (15.2 litres per minute)
- Ideal for: A 3-4 bedroom home with two bath or two showers
- ERP rating: A
- Guarantee: 10 years
Conclusion
The Vaillant EcoTEC Plus 838 is a great choice if you’re looking for a reliable boiler to provide great flow rates to your home, without taking up a huge amount of space.
With a heating output of 28kw, it can comfortably heat your medium-to-large Edinburgh home, with fantastic flow rates that can easily run two baths or two showers. Just make sure your flow rate is sufficient, otherwise you won’t get all the benefit of that incredible 15.9 litres per minute.
Top it all off with a brilliant 10-year guarantee, and you’ll be covered whatever happens.
What are your thoughts on the Vaillant EcoTEC Plus 838 combi boiler?

I’m considering this boiler or its Exclusive partner but can’t see the value in upgrading to the Exclusive? The alternative to both is a Worcester 42CDi smaller and better flow. Decisions decisions….
Jonathan
Valliant is best boiler
We have two homes, both fitted with Vaillaint combi boilers. Never had any problems with either. Once a year we service them and have found them efficient, reliable and very quiet. We have a 10 year warrenty with one boiler the 838 and we can run two showers or baths at the same time from it. In short this boiler is worth every penny . The 10 year warrenty is the icing on the cake. Bob Dorset UK.