When you replace your existing boiler with an energy-efficient model, you save as much as 40 per cent on your bills. You also reduce your home’s carbon footprint as approximately 60 per cent of a household’s total emissions come from the boiler. In 2005, Building Regulations ruled any new boiler installed must be a high-efficiency condensing boiler.
What’s the difference between old and new boilers?
The primary difference is the amount of useable heat generated. Non-condensing (older) boilers capture 60 per cent compared to 90 per cent of useable heat extracted from energy efficient boilers. This is because the larger heat exchanger fitted to new boilers is able to draw heat from flue gases that used to be lost to the atmosphere. The heat is then fed back into the system as useable heat.
Another major difference is that condensing boilers are triggered when heat is required, as opposed to older boilers’ permanently burning pilot light. These two factors – larger heat exchangers and energy-efficient processes – mean condensing boilers are the better option both financially and environmentally.
How much can I save?
New boilers are expensive. However, you recover 100 per cent of costs within three to five years of installation. Households make immediate savings of one third on their heating bills. It’s also recommended you update your boiler heating controls at the same time to maximise your bill savings to 40 per cent. The Government is also offering energy grants to assist with new boiler installations, so check whether you are eligible to take advantage of more opportunities to save.
It is crucial that you engage the services of a recognised boiler installer. Fortunately, there is no need to search too far outside your area code as there are plenty of local options available in rural and urban areas like, such as companies offering boiler installation in Gloucester (http://www.hprservicesltd.com/boiler-and-heating-installation-gloucester/).
A new boiler is a solid, returnable investment providing practical and immediate benefits to the efficiency and operating costs of your home. Make sure you engage the services of a recognised expert, and don’t forget to check if you are eligible for government grants. Looking at the numbers and the fact that you are guaranteed immediate savings on both your carbon footprint and your bills, installing a new boiler is a no-brainer for most households.