While researching your boiler purchase, you have probably come across multiple sites that show you how you can save money with a new boiler. In 2017, the market is now full of budget and high-efficiency boilers. In this article, we will explain how much a new boiler could save you, and the developments that are being made to improve boiler efficiency.
Why should I replace my boiler?
The move to a modern boiler makes a massive difference to your overall energy bills. If your boiler is more than ten years old, there is a chance that you have a non-condensing boiler. A modern condensing boiler will have a high energy efficiency rating – some as high as 95%! It’s important to bear in mind that an old boiler could be between 60-70% efficient. At Hometree, we can talk you through how energy efficient your boiler is, and the many boiler options we offer. If your boiler has regularly been serviced and has a relatively high-efficiency rating, there may not be any need to replace it.
Why are older boilers less efficient?
It’s quite common for older boilers to lose heat during the water heating process. A gas boiler will ignite gas to pass hot water through your central heating system. All boilers rely on a flue to allow any waste gases to exit the property. Old boilers will lose a lot of valuable energy through the flue, as well as waste gases. Thankfully, modern condensing boilers are a solution to this problem due to a secondary or extended heat exchanger. A condensing boiler will capture a lot of the additional gases instead of wasting them through the flue, which therefore benefits not only the environment but the overall performance of your boiler and central heating system.
How much money can I save with a new boiler?
According to the Energy Saving Trust, boilers produce around 60% of all domestic CO2 emissions. Switching to a more energy-efficient boiler could save you up to £350 per year (or £29 per month) on your energy bills. Modern boilers are manufactured to be more efficient than non-condensing boilers. High-efficiency condensing boilers will use less energy to run your heating and hot water and convert more heat with their large heat exchangers. The amount of money you could save each year is based on the age of your previous boiler and its efficiency rating, in addition to the fuel it uses. If your current boiler is a back boiler and you’re considering modern boiler options, the price will be higher due to the complex nature of the installation.
What else can I do to improve my heating system?
We recommend that you have TRVs (Thermostatic Radiator Valves) installed on each of your radiators to reduce the amount of energy used to heat the rooms you spend the least time in within your home. It is quite uncommon for most homes not to have TRVs installed on each radiator. If you’d like more information about radiatior valves, check out our guide here.
In addition to a programmer, you could also look into programmable room thermostats and smart thermostat options. You will not only benefit from scheduling features for your heating, but you could also use your smartphone or tablet with a smart thermostat to have full control of your heating inside and outside of your home. With a smart thermostat, you will not only be able to schedule your heating, but you can also monitor your energy usage and make adjustments where necessary.
