If you are looking at replacing your old boiler with a newer model you’ve probably heard that you need to upgrade to a “condensing boiler”. The government requires all new boilers to be condensing models as part of their efforts to reduce the UK’s carbon footprint, but as well as being more environmentally friendly, a condensing boiler should also save you money on your energy bills. Here’s how.
How condensing boilers work
A boiler works by burning fuel to produce hot gases which are then passed across a heat exchange element. This transfers the heat generated to the water in your system warming it up enough to run your central heating. The gases, including water vapour, then leave the boiler through a pipe connected to the outside of your house known as a flue. Unfortunately, those gases still contain some of the heat generated when your boiler fuel is burned and this heat is carried outside with those gases and wasted.
Condensing boilers work by recovering that heat and using it. They do this by extracting most of the heat energy from the waste gases, which causes the water vapour to turn back into a liquid. The process of a gas turning into a liquid is known as condensation which is why these types of boilers are known as ‘condensing’ boilers.
How does this save money?
The more efficient your boiler is at extracting heat from its fuel, the less fuel you will need to use to achieve the same results from your central heating. And, of course, the less fuel you use, the lower your bill will be!
Condensing boilers are much more efficient than traditional, non-condensing models. The best modern boilers, such as those manufactured by Worcester Bosch and Vaillant, are usually at least 90% efficient, compared to efficiencies as low as 60% for non-condensing models. This means upgrading your boiler to one of the latest models should offer an instant reduction in your bills, allowing your new boiler to eventually pay for itself thanks to the saving you will make!
DHS are one of the South West’s top plumbing and heating firms. If you are looking for boiler replacement in Bristol or the surrounding area, or need your existing boiler serviced or repaired, get in touch!
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