Considering the energy efficiency of combi boilers when updating your central heating

 COP26 has ended and for most people, the outcomes are disappointing, but what it has done is highlight the urgency of environmental action and how we all have a role to play. How we heat our homes is a crucial factor in reducing carbon emissions and the government has announced grants of up to £6,000 to install green, clean heat pumps. However, whilst both air source heat pumps and ground source heat pumps are unquestionably one of the most environmentally friendly heating options, the additional total cost is still likely to be thousands of pounds and the disruption considerable for the average existing householder. As an alternative, therefore, this article will look at the energy efficiency of combi boilers.

What are condensing boilers?

Since 2005, all new boilers have been condensing boilers

Older, non-condensing boilers tend to waste heat by leaking hot waste flue gases into the outside air. This not only wastes money but also releases a significant amount of carbon emissions which, as we know, is a greenhouse gas that is partly responsible for climate change.

In the case of condensing boilers, there is a recycling process by which the hot gasses pass through the primary heat exchanger. These hot gasses then reheat the water which flows back from the radiators. The water vapour in the gasses is transformed from a vapour to a liquid, resulting in the process of condensation, hence the name.

All combi boilers are condensing boilers.

When upgrading from an old non-condensing boiler to a new combi boiler, the increased energy efficiency results in huge saving on heating and hot water bills as shown by the Energy Saving Trust.

How do you choose your boiler?

 When considering energy efficiency and optimised operational capability from your boiler, it can be difficult to know where to start. Looking online via a website such as iHeat can help homeowners explore the options of various eco and energy-efficient boilers and understand the pricing options. As you will see, the energy efficiency of combi boilers is emphasised, albeit there are various additional aspects to consider.

Recent evolution and advancement in boiler technology have enabled manufacturers to design higher energy efficiency combined with more economical operational cycles in boiler systems. All this while ensuring there is considerably less energy consumption. A tall order, as compared to the older, non-condensing, low-efficiency boilers.

The next-generation eco and energy-efficient combi boilers redefine energy efficiency. They use considerably less fuel for better output results. These eco and energy-efficient combi boilers work at a base operating level of almost 90 % on energy efficiency. If monitored and serviced regularly, they can perform at optimum levels of between 94 % and 95 % which is hugely cost-effective overall and ensures you are likely to get a reasonable quick financial return on your investment in a new boiler, as well as knowing you are playing your part in reducing CO2 emissions.

What Is Boiler Efficiency?

A boiler’s efficiency is generally measured by the amount of fuel or energy it utilises for standard and normal operation of providing heat or heated water. When we say that eco and energy-efficient combi boilers operate at a peak efficiency of approximately 94 %, it means that only 6 % of the total fuel or energy used for heating purposes is lost during standard operation. When compared to older boilers (which used to operate at usually optimum level 60 % or at best 65 %), these eco and energy-efficient combi boilers clearly stand out as front-runners.

Energy efficient combi boiler design

 The eco and energy-efficient combi boilers are designed and engineered to ensure that both the home and our environment are well protected and energy-efficient at the same time. The latest technology that manufacturers adopt while making these boiler systems ensures that there is minimum heat loss and a higher rate of heat transfer within the home. Add to that, most systems are now equipped with the latest electronic control systems and monitoring systems to make the entire experience more conducive in your home.

These boiler systems can operate on either gas or oil, or electricity. They do not need any separately created storage system for hot water, due to which these systems occupy much less space. This makes them highly conducive to use in apartment blocks or smaller-sized homes.

Above all, these systems now come with built-in monitoring and control systems, which allow the homeowner to manage the system more appropriately. This, in turn, reduces the maintenance requirements, as compared to other boiler systems.

Combi systems are particularly efficient because they heat both radiators for central heating and the hot water and therefore, as already mentioned, do not need a hot water storage cylinder. However, do consider that if at some stage you or someone who purchases your home at a later date wants to install solar water heating or convert to heat pumps, they will need a water cylinder, so consider carefully before having it removed completely.

What Are The Benefits Of Using Energy-efficient Combi Boilers?

While there are many boilers, the energy and efficiency of the versatile combi boiler cannot be denied. While selecting, it is essential to ensure you see the pros and cons of installing the combi boilers. Having complete knowledge helps curb maintenance expenses, increase efficiency, and promotes longevity.

Benefits of using eco and energy-efficient combi boilers are:

• Compact design and well-engineered
• Highly energy efficient ensuring the user saves on operational costs
• Little or no emissions help protect our environment
• Smart operation controls give the user complete control of the system
• Easy monitoring of the system through built-in control systems
• Space-saving and easily installable
• A singular system without multiple tanks and storage systems

Renewable energy

 Of course, it is the fuel the boiler uses that ultimately makes a significant difference in terms of being environmentally friendly and, unfortunately, some people are clearly restricted in their options. However, if your new energy efficient combi boiler will be using electric or gas, please do look at the renewable energy options available and change your provider accordingly if possible.