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Thinking about getting a new boiler in Scotland, Wales, or England? There’s a lot to think about. One big choice is whether to get a condensing or non-condensing boiler. Once non-condensing boilers were popular, but now the law says you should switch to condensing ones when you upgrade.
Moreover, choosing a condensing boiler has lots of benefits you might not get with a non-condensing one. First, they’re much more efficient. They can be up to 99% efficient, while non-condensing ones are usually around 78%. And there are other cool benefits too! So upgrading to a modern condensing boiler from your old non-condensing one could really make a difference.
Condensing and Non-Condensing Boilers
Condensing and non-condensing boilers are both types of gas boilers. Non-condensing boilers are usually older, while condensing boilers are newer and more common in homes. So the main difference between them is how they use the steam they produce.
When a boiler burns fuel, it creates steam, which has heat in it. But non-condensing boilers don’t use all the steam they produce, so they don’t use all the heat from it.
Condensing models, however, don’t waste that heat. They use almost all of it, making sure your home gets as warm as possible.
How Does a non-condensing boiler work?
Non-condensing boilers work in a straightforward way. Firstly, fuel like gas, oil, or biomass is burned in the combustion chamber. This creates heat. Secondly, the heat goes to the water, which moves through the boiler’s primary heat exchanger. Now, the hot water goes to the radiators or underfloor heating system, warming up your home.
Disadvantages of non-condensing boilers
- Lower Efficiency: Non-condensing boilers aren’t as efficient as condensing boilers. This means they use more fuel. Consequently, this can lead to higher energy bills.
- Environmental Impact: When these boilers release flue gases into the air, it adds to the pollution. Moreover, this includes more carbon dioxide and other harmful pollutants.
- Limited Heat Recovery: These machines don’t capture heat from the flue gases. As a result, they waste energy, which isn’t good for the environment including your wallet.
Environmental impact of non-condensing boilers
These boilers have a big impact on the environment because they release more emissions than condensing boilers. This includes carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and other pollutants. Plus, these emissions make the air dirty. Consequently, they contribute to climate change. As rules about energy efficiency get tougher, it’s important to switch to heating options that are better for the environment.
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What’s a condensing boiler?
Condensing boilers work differently from their non-condensing counterparts. While older boilers waste a lot of heat, condensing boilers are super efficient, sometimes up to 99%! In this boiler, heat from the flue gases (the gases that come out of the boiler) can be captured and used again. This heat is used to warm up the cold water that comes into the boiler. As a result, the temperature of the flue gas drops quickly from about 130℃ to 50℃.
Because they reuse heat that’s already there, these boilers can help you save money on your energy bills. They also help the environment by producing fewer CO2 emissions, which is good for fighting climate change.
Why take our Advice on Non-condensing Boiler Replacements?
It's illegal to Install a Non-condensing Boiler
The fore and foremost reason to replace a non-condensing boiler is that it is now illegal to install this type of boiler in new homes across the UK. Moreover, the government has imposed complete ban on non-condensing technology used in boilers. So being a responsible citizen, you should respect the law and avoid installing this boiler on your property. Lower heating costs.
Saving on Heating Costs
Condensing boilers don’t take up much space! Unlike older models, they’re smaller. If you choose a condensing combi boiler, you won’t need a big water tank. This means you can put the boiler in more places in your home. You could even use the space in cupboards! Moreover, this boiler can fit nicely in kitchen cupboards, loft spaces, utility room cupboards, downstairs cloakrooms, hallways, or spare bedrooms. So ask your engineer where the best spot is for your new boiler to save space.
Safety Measures
Safety is super important! Condensing boilers are much safer than old ones. They’re sealed tightly, which means they keep heat in better. Plus, they’re less likely to let dirt or debris inside. Next, they have a special pipe that sends waste liquid outside. So you don’t have to worry about harmful stuff staying inside your home.
ECO4 Grants
If you want to replace your non-condensing boiler with its condensing counterpart, the government can help you. Under eco4 scheme, you may be eligible for totally free boiler replacement. But to qualify, you must also be recipient of certain government benefits. Moreover, your EPC score must be lower than D.
Other benefits
- Go Green and Breathe Easy: Upgrading reduces your carbon footprint. Condensing boilers emit less CO2, helping combat climate change and creating a cleaner environment for everyone.
- Hot Water on Demand: These boilers excel at delivering consistent hot water. So you can enjoy hot water whenever you need it.
- Reliable Warmth: Enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a modern boiler. These boilers are known for their reliability and efficient heating. Consequently, they keep you warm and cosy throughout the winter.
- Lower Maintenance Costs: These boilers require less maintenance compared to their older counterparts. As a result, they save you time and money on repairs and servicing.
- Compact Design: Modern condensing boilers are often more compact than older models, freeing up valuable space in your home.
- Quieter Operation: Enjoy a quieter home environment. These boilers operate at lower noise levels, creating a more peaceful atmosphere.
- Long-Term Investment: Moreover, these boiler machines have a longer lifespan compared to non-condensing models, making them a wise investment for your home.
Non-condensing Boiler Replacement Grants
Basically, if your income is low or you get benefits, you can qualify for these grants. These might be for those who receive specific benefits.
- Income-based Job Seekers Allowance (JSA)
- Income-related Employment & Support Allowance (ESA)
- Income Support (IS)
- Pension Credit Guarantee Credit
- Working Tax Credit (WTC)
- Child Tax Credits (CTC)
- Universal Credit (UC)
- Housing Benefit
- Pension Credit Savings Credit
Need a new boiler?
Upgrade to an A-rated boiler at no cost with the Berks insulation.
As a UK landlord, enhance your property’s value and save on energy costs.
Check your Eligibility Now
Frequently Asked Questions
Non-condensing boilers usually work with most heating systems, like radiators and underfloor heating. But it’s best to ask a heating expert to make sure they’re right for your system.
It’s not easy to change a non-condensing boiler into a condensing one. You’d need to make big changes, like adding another heat exchanger. This might not be possible for every boiler.
Non-condensing boilers can last from 15 to 20 years if they’re well looked after. But this can vary depending on how much you use it and how well you take care of it.
Yes, you can use renewable energy with non-condensing boilers, like solar panels or biomass boilers. Just make sure they work well together and are compatible.
Some places offer rewards for installing condensing boilers to save energy. Check with local authorities or energy companies to see if there are any incentives available.
Get Your ECO4 Grant
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