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%.
