Understanding condensing boilers
The vast majority of combi, system, and heat only boilers in UK homes are known as condensing models.
Legislation introduced in 2005 has made it a legal requirement for all new gas boilers to be condensing models, with the same law coming into effect in 2007 for oil boilers. While you might have heard the term, what does it actually mean?
Read on for more about:
What makes a boiler a condensing boiler
Why today’s boilers are required to be condensing models
Other benefits of condensing boilers
Choosing the right boiler for your property
What makes a boiler a condensing boiler
When talking about condensing boilers, we are actually talking about a certain technology where heat lost during the boiler’s normal use is extracted and reused to preheat incoming cold water, significantly reducing fuel consumption. The hot exhaust gases used to pre-heat the incoming water cool and turn back into a liquid (condenses) which is drained away from the boiler.
The energy efficiency of condensing boilers is one of their most significant advantages, with efficiency ratings often exceeding 90%. This high efficiency means more of the energy consumed is converted into usable heat. Many modern condensing boilers are equipped with advanced controls that adjust performance based on real-time demand, further boosting their efficiency.
Environmentally, condensing boilers contribute to reducing carbon emissions by using energy more effectively. This not only decreases greenhouse gas emissions but also reduces the overall demand for fossil fuels, making them a more sustainable heating choice.
Why new boilers are required to be condensing models
The main reason why new boilers have been legally required to be condensing models is to maximise efficiency and reduce emissions across UK homes. As we mentioned in the last section, condensing boilers have an efficiency rate exceeding 90%, which is a result of further legislation introduced in 2018 which made it a legal requirement for new boilers to have an energy-related product rating of at least 92%.
Other benefits of condensing boilers
As condensing boilers are more efficient than previous models, they use less energy to provide the same level of heat. This means condensing boilers have the potential to lower energy bills, particularly with the latest, most efficient models.
Combi boilers are a popular choice across the country, with 80% of UK households having one installed according to Uswitch. A condensing combi boiler is also compact, providing heating and hot water performance from one appliance situated in a convenient location such as an airing or kitchen cupboard, bringing practicality and efficiency together.
It’s also worth remembering that heat only and system boilers are also condensing boilers.
Choosing the right boiler for your property
In most cases, a combi boiler provides a great option for practical reasons and for efficiency. That said, it’s worth considering other options, depending on your specific needs.
Homes that have a higher water usage or multiple bathrooms, for example, may benefit from a heat only or system boiler, which both utilise a tank or cylinder for hot water storage. Electric boilers also provide an efficient solution for homes off the main gas network.
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