What is a Condensing Boiler?
High efficiency condensing boilers have either a larger or second heat exchanger, which saves the heat that would normally escape up the flue. This reduces the temperature of the flue gases to a point where water vapour produced during combustion is 'condensed out'. Hence the name; Condensing Boiler.
High efficiency condensing boilers are established products and can be fitted to all new and the majority of existing heating systems and are no larger than conventional boilers. Condensing boilers are available as either combination boilers, which heat up hot water on demand, or system boilers, where a separate hot water cylinder is required.
Will fitting a Condensing Boiler save me money?
A simple way of gauging the efficiency of your boiler is to check how old it is. The following table shows the potential savings when replacing an older boiler with a condensing model.
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|
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0-3 years |
Likely to be condensing |
No additional savings |
4-15 years |
New conventional boiler |
Up to 15% savings can be made by switching to a Condensing Boiler |
15+ years |
Old conventional boiler |
Up to 35% savings can be made by switching to a Condensing Boiler |
By choosing a Condensing boiler, you benefit from an easy installation, a fully modulating low NOx burner and extended flueing options making the positioning of the boiler extremely flexible. Condensing boilers are suitable for replacing most existing boilers however as with any replacement boiler, the effectiveness of the control system and type of hot water cylinder should be assessed when conducting a site survey. Consideration should also be given to cleaning and flushing the system before fitting the new boiler. This will ensure that any dirt and foreign bodies in the system are removed before the new boiler is fitted.
Boiler types
For single bathroom properties, a condensing combination boiler will provide warmth all through the winter and plenty of hot water at the turn of a tap. ‘Combi’ boilers do not require a hot water cylinder as they heat up the hot water on demand when it is required. There is no stored water so you only pay for the water you heat.
If your house has more than one bathroom, you can install a condensing system boiler, fitted in conjunction with a high efficiency hot water cylinder. The cylinder can be sized according to your specific hot water requirements. For total flexibility, install a condensing combination boiler and use the boiler to heat the radiators and a cylinder to supply the bathroom. You can then use the Combi side of the appliance for instantaneous hot water for the kitchen and utility room etc– where water is needed more frequently.
Additional controls
To get the most out of your new high efficiency boiler ensure you install efficient heating controls. When heating controls are installed, heating systems can react to changes in temperature, provide different levels of heat in different rooms, and switch hot water on and off at whatever times are specified by the homeowner. The cost of installing a full heating controls package will pay for itself in less than five years. |
