What is a Condensing Boiler?

Boiler efficiency is something that is now seriously considered by law. One element of this is a condensing boiler, which all new boiler installation have to be now due to their higher efficiency levels. In this post we explain how condensing boilers work and their main advantages for your home (and your wallet!)

How do Condensing Boilers work?

‘Condensing’ is a feature of the boiler, rather than a type of boiler - hence it doesn’t determine the boiler’s ‘type’ such as a Combi or System boiler would. Any boiler can be a condensing boiler if it is installed with a Flue Gas Recovery System. This ‘recovery system’ heats any waste gases, rather than just emitting them straight out into the atmosphere like a non-condensing boiler would. The Flue Gas Recovery System catches and reuses the waste gases, enabling the boiler to reach efficiency levels of up to 90%.

Advantages of Condensing Boilers

• Energy Efficiency - The system of reusing waste gases means the boiler can reach a 90% energy efficiency. This means for every £100 spent, only £1 is wasted. If you compare this to a 75% efficient boiler, there would be £25 wasted - which is significantly higher!
• Environmentally Friendly – Condensing boilers have lower CO2 emissions than other boilers, making them more environmentally friendly. Every little helps!
• Lower Bills – Higher efficiency = lower bills! A boiler with higher efficiency will need less fuel to produce the same amount of heat. This means less money is wasted and the money you do spend is put to use properly!
• Compact Size – Condensing boilers are small and compact, meaning you can easily slot it into your kitchen or utility room without anyone having to see it.

Potential problems with Condensing Boilers

One issue you may need to consider with a condensing boiler, is that the condensate pipe which leads waste acidic water is led outside to a drain. The problem with this is that it can often freeze in the winter, meaning you will need to thaw it. You can either get a specialist to help with this, or do it yourself using a hot water bottle or by pouring hot water over the pipe.

For any more information, or if you would like a free non-obligation installation quote, please get in touch with our team of specialists today. We are happy to help!