Commercial Boilers

What is a boiler cascade system?

In simple terms, a boiler cascade system is a configuration where multiple boilers are brought together as a single, optimised unit.

 

This approach provides a reliable heating solution for commercial buildings that also delivers dependable comfort for occupants. 

 

Read on for more about:

 

  • How boiler cascade systems work

  • The advantages of a boiler cascade system

  • How boiler cascade systems provide an efficient heating solution

  • Key considerations for a boiler cascade system 

What is a boiler cascade system - Baxi commercial solutions

How boiler cascade systems work

A boiler cascade setup uses a control system to link the boilers together. This monitors the building’s heating and hot water needs, activating more or fewer boilers depending on demand. The boilers essentially work together to achieve the same output as one, single large boiler. 


Operating in this way means that a cascade boiler system is a flexible solution that maintains comfort throughout the entire building. 

The advantages of a boiler cascade system

Boiler cascade systems can be a more efficient system than relying on one single boiler. Should one of the boilers fail or needs maintenance, the others are able to take on the load. By contrast, if a single boiler encounters a problem, the disruption can be extensive , with heat  and hot water taking hours or even days to be restored.

 
Similarly, boilers within a cascade system can be taken offline independently for routine servicing and maintenance, ensuring there is no downtime whilst this is taking place.


As heating demand within the building increases, extra boilers can be added  easily to the current cascade system to meet the new requirements, allowing for scalability that can be managed effectively as the building’s needs change. The boilers can also be wall-mounted, which saves valuable space.

If a boiler in a cascade system is offline or needs maintenance, the others in the configuration take on the load. As demand increases, more boilers can be brought online or added, allowing the changes to be managed efficiently and effectively.  

How boiler cascade systems work - Baxi commercial solutions

How boiler cascade systems provide an efficient heating solution

We mentioned efficiency earlier in this article, but what does that actually mean? 

 

Having multiple boilers working together is a more energy efficient way of operating than one large boiler constantly cycling on and off. Not only does this mean the output remains constant, but there is reduced wear and tear associated with a cascade system, which in turn, keeps running costs down.

 

That said, the boilers in a cascade system still need servicing in order to continue working at the desired level.

Key considerations for a boiler cascade system

 

Each boiler cascade system will differ slightly according to demands and the building’s characteristics. Start by considering the space you have available, your average heating demands, and budget. 


A key part of having a boiler cascade system implemented is carrying out an accurate heat load calculation. This will determine the minimum and maximum heating loads of your building to make sure the system isn’t oversized and therefore, become less efficient. 


At Baxi, our Cascade Configurator Tool can help take the guesswork out of having a cascade system in place and enables you to have the correct configuration for your needs. 

 

Boiler cascades by Baxi

 

Our boiler cascade systems are easy to install and can be either standard or bespoke, depending on your needs. At Baxi, we have a dedicated team of experts to help you make the right decision for your project. Learn more here or contact us for more information.

Cascades and Rig Systems

We offer a range of standard or bespoke cascade kits for both floor standing and wall-hung arrangements.

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