The Viessmann Vitodens 050-W is a compact, entry-level gas combi boiler designed specifically for small to medium UK homes. While it sits at the more affordable end of Viessmann’s range, it still carries the brand’s German engineering DNA — prioritising reliability, quiet operation, and long-term efficiency over flashy extras.
Often described by installers as a “first premium combi,” the 050-W is particularly popular in 1–3 bedroom homes where space is tight and dependable performance matters more than advanced screens or built-in smart tech.
What the Viessmann Vitodens 050-W Combi Boiler Is Designed to Do
At its core, the Vitodens 050-W provides heating and instant hot water from a single compact unit, without the need for a hot water cylinder.
In practical terms:
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The boiler heats water on demand, so you’re not storing hot water unnecessarily
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The boiler modulates its output, matching heat delivery to real demand rather than cycling on and off
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The stainless steel heat exchanger resists corrosion, improving longevity
This design makes the 050-W especially suitable for flats, terraces, and standard family homes, as well as straightforward combi-to-combi replacements.
Viessmann Vitodens 050-W: Key Specifications (UK Models)
Rather than overwhelming you with raw numbers, the table below highlights the specifications that actually affect day-to-day performance and ownership.
| Specification | Viessmann Vitodens 050-W (UK) | What This Means in Real Life |
|---|---|---|
| Boiler type | Gas condensing combi | Heating and hot water from one compact unit |
| Typical UK outputs | 25kW / 30kW / 35kW | Covers most flats through to larger 3–4 bed homes |
| Seasonal efficiency | ~92% (ErP A-rated) | Efficient when correctly installed and set |
| Modulation range | Down to around 1:8 (model dependent) | Boiler can run gently instead of constantly cycling |
| Minimum heat output | Just over 3kW | Helps avoid overheating smaller homes |
| Hot water flow rate | Approx. 10–14 L/min (size dependent) | Comfortable showers for most UK households |
| Heat exchanger | Inox-Radial stainless steel | Highly resistant to corrosion and wear |
| Warranty on exchanger | Up to 10 years (with registration) | Strong long-term peace of mind |
| Fuel compatibility | Natural gas, LPG, up to 20% hydrogen blend | Ready for future UK gas changes |
| Dimensions (HxWxD) | Approx. 700 × 400 × 300 mm | Very compact for cupboards and lofts |
| Weight | Around 30kg | Easier handling during installation |
| Controls & connectivity | OpenTherm compatible, Vitoconnect optional | Works well with modern smart thermostats |
Installation Costs in the UK (2026)
A realistic supply-and-fit installation for a Vitodens 050-W starts at around £2,300 for a standard combi swap. Final costs depend on output size, access, and any system upgrades required.
Typical UK Cost Breakdown
| Output | Boiler Cost | Labour | Sundries | Total Supply & Fit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 25kW | £900–£1,100 | £800–£1,200 | £300–£500 | £2,300–£2,800 |
| 30kW | £1,000–£1,250 | £900–£1,400 | £400–£600 | £2,500–£3,200 |
| 35kW | £1,200–£1,400 | £1,000–£1,500 | £400–£600 | £2,800–£3,500 |
Costs may increase for powerflushing, complex pipework, or restricted access. Prices are typically lower in the North of England and higher in London and the South East.
Day-to-Day Use and Controls
The Vitodens 050-W uses a simple black-and-white touchscreen interface that focuses on clarity rather than complexity.
Daily operation includes:
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Winter mode for heating and hot water
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Summer mode for hot water only
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Adjustable flow temperatures (commonly 50–60°C for heating, 50–55°C for hot water)
With the optional Vitoconnect module, homeowners can control the boiler via the ViCare app, allowing:
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Remote scheduling
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Geofencing
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Fault alerts
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Easy service booking
In real use, owners often comment on how quiet the boiler is, particularly when installed in kitchens or open-plan areas.
Efficiency and Real-World Performance
With a seasonal efficiency of around 92%, the Vitodens 050-W performs strongly when paired with sensible flow temperatures and modern controls.
Homeowners upgrading from older boilers regularly report:
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Faster hot water delivery
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More even radiator temperatures
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Annual savings of £200–£400 compared with older, non-condensing units
The stainless steel heat exchanger and smooth modulation also help reduce wear, supporting a service life that often exceeds 15 years when maintained properly.
Vitodens 050-w Pros and Cons
Pros
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Compact and ideal for tight spaces
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Quiet operation
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Long warranty options
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Stainless steel heat exchanger
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Smart-control ready
Cons
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Display is functional rather than premium
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Fewer UK spare stockists than Worcester Bosch
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Best performance relies on good system water quality
Is the Viessmann Vitodens 050-W Right for You?
This boiler is a strong choice if:
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You live in a small to medium UK home
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Space is limited (cupboards, lofts, utility rooms)
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You value reliability and warranty cover
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You want a noticeable efficiency upgrade without complexity
It may not be ideal if:
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Your household has very high simultaneous hot water demand
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You want a large colour display or built-in smart features
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You prioritise the widest possible UK spare-parts availability
How It Compares to Rivals
Compared with popular alternatives:
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Worcester Bosch Greenstar models offer wider UK parts availability, but are often louder and come with shorter warranties
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Vaillant ecoTEC boilers are excellent but typically larger and more expensive
The Vitodens 050-W stands out for its compact size, quiet running, and long warranty value.
Boilers2Go Verdict
The Viessmann Vitodens 050-W is one of the safest “step-up” combi boilers available in the UK.
It doesn’t chase gimmicks. Instead, it focuses on:
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Long-term reliability
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Quiet, efficient performance
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Strong warranty protection
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A footprint that fits real UK homes
If space, warranty length, and dependable everyday performance matter more than flashy features, the Vitodens 050-W is easy to recommend — especially when installed and sized correctly.
With years of experience in boilers and home improvements in general, Myles Robinson is a passionate advocate for making home heating simpler, safer, and more affordable for households across the UK. With years of experience in the heating industry, Myles combines hands-on knowledge with a focus on customer-first service, helping homeowners choose the right boiler, understand their systems, and keep their heating running efficiently all year round. His articles break down complex topics into clear, practical advice you can trust.