What is a Condensing Boiler?
A condensing boiler is a highly efficient type of boiler, typically rated at 90% efficiency or
above (these get SEDBUK A rating). The old non-condensing type boilers are nowhere near the required efficiency ratings, typically 25% less efficient. Over the lifetime of a boiler, this can equate to £100’s wasted.
How does a Condensing boiler work?
Condensing boilers achieve greater efficiency by re-using water vapour produced by the exhaust gases from the boilers burner. The boiler is able to condense the water vapour and recover latent heat of vaporization. By doing this the boiler can reuse heat which would of been wasted. The condensed water vapour is slightly acidic and therefore needs to be removed from the boiler usually into waste pipework.
What is the difference in efficiency between a condensing boiler and non-condensing?
Boilers used to require a permanent pilot light. This would remain on constantly, wasting fuel/money whether there was demand for heat or not.
Modern condensing boilers do not require a permanent pilot light, they only fire up when there is a demand for heat. Condensing boilers are 25% more efficient than non-condensing (even the very best non-condensing boilers can only reach 78% efficiency. This typically means that the higher efficiency of a modern condensing boiler can achieve savings upto £310 per year, according to the Energy Saving Trust.
What are the advantages of having an A rated efficient condensing boiler?
Apart from the obvious money savings (upto £310 per year, according to the Energy Saving Trust), it will also lower your carbon footprint. By installing a modern A rated condensing boiler you could save upto 1200kg of carbon emissions per year.
Does this mean all new boilers have to be condensing boilers?
According to building regulations, all new boilers have to be SEDBUK A rated. As it stands only a condensing boiler can achieve this rating.
Are you looking to replace/upgrade your current boiler?
If you would like to get your boiler replace/upgraded, we offer a full comprehensive survey and site visit. We can discuss possible boiler brands, location of new boiler, duration of work, etc.
DPJ Plumbing, Heating and Gas, would be happy to discuss a new boiler installation. Contact us on 01889597377, 07971693134 or visit our contact page.