Boiler Plus Legislation: What does this mean for you?

Legislation for boilers is changing. Boiler Plus was introduced in April this year, with the intention of helping the UK achieve its carbon emissions target for 2020. So what does this mean for you?

Legislation summary

Here’s a quick update of what the legislation is all about and what you should be looking for from your boiler installer.

At a glance:

• The Boiler Plus legislation came into effect on 6th April 2018.
• It’s part of the Government’s Heat in Buildings activity which is focused on being more energy efficient.
• It means that any newly fitted boilers are expected to have an ErP rating of at least 92%.
• Any boiler fitted should also have controls for managing time and temperature.

What is ErP?

ErP stands for energy related products and was introduced by the EU to help improve efficiency and product design. Its primary purpose is to reduce the cost of running your boiler, but it’s also designed to cut overall carbon emissions.

Combi boilers, which many people have installed nowadays, are particularly singled out in the legislation. Installations need to include one of the following measures:

• Smart controls: We’re all getting used to better and smarter controls. These can include Wi-Fi connected thermostats that allow you to manage your heating more efficiently and effectively.

• Flue Gas Heat Recovery (FGHR): This device helps to recycle the heat that would otherwise be lost to the open air. It means you use less energy to heat your pipes and hot water.

• Weather compensation: These are less well-known to home owners but measure the outside temperature and set the performance level of the boiler to compensate.

• Load compensation: This examines how your boiler responds and adjusts the temperature to help further reduce fuel consumption. If you’ve recently had a brand-new combi boiler installed, the probability is that you will already have at least one or two of these measures included so you don’t need to worry.

Compliance is key 

All boiler installers should be aware of the need to comply with the Boiler Plus legislation. Failure to do so means they are breaking the law and could be prosecuted. You might also want to note that, if you are having a new boiler installed and you know that it is non-compliant, you could also be at risk of a £5,000 fine yourself.

The aim of the legislation is not to suddenly get everyone to install new boilers, but to deliver a gradual change over time and phase out inefficient models to improve our general energy efficiency. As one of the leading boiler companies in Bristol, we have been at the forefront of helping customers install the most energy efficient boilers that meet these new regulations.

If you are starting to think about replacing your boiler for a new, more efficient model, contact our professional team. Call us on 0117 924 7200 or fill out a contact form to book an appointment.