Condensing boilers, in a nutshell, are far more efficient than standard boilers. Typically, they convert 90 per cent and upwards of energy into heat (compared to an old boiler whose efficiency can be as little as 60 per cent). Condensing boilers should not be confused with combination (or ‘combi’) boilers. Combi boilers provide hot water heated on demand directly from the boiler, rather than through a separate hot water storage cylinder. Condensing boilers condense the vapour back into water, hence the name. To condense the vapour air is drawn into the unit, which in turn is heated. They are most efficient when operating in condensing mode and even in non-condensing mode they are more efficient than traditional boilers. They waste almost no heat through the flue, so can cost less to run. These boilers give off a large plume of water vapour but, if the boiler and flue are sited correctly, this shouldn’t be a problem. Regular maintenance of this type of boiler is particularly important as sludge can build up and cause problems.
Condensing boilers are ideal for large properties, properties with extensive heating systems or large heat load requirements, e.g. If there is a large difference between the boiler flow and return temperatures, then a condensing boiler should be considered.
Condensing boilers have been fitted to new homes for many years and are not a ‘new technology’, they can be wall mounted or floor standing. The advantage they offer over non-condensing boilers is a reduction in fuel costs. Condensing boilers are much more energy efficient than older traditional models, says deputy prime minister John Prescott, and will cut greenhouse gas emissions dramatically. It will all help to meet our Kyoto targets and ease global warming. Installing only high-efficiency boilers will help the UK to achieve reductions in carbon emissions and so reduce the impact of climate change. If everyone in the UK had a condensing boiler our annual carbon dioxide emissions would be reduced by 17.5 million tonnes, and it would also result in a saving of £1.3 billion on energy bills every year.
Condensing boilers as stated earlier are more efficient than ordinary boilers and produce less carbon dioxide while still meeting your heating requirements. They are best suited to gas as oil and solid fuel fumes have higher acidity levels and lower moisture content. A condensing boiler requires a drain to be installed on the flue to remove the condensation, but because of the low temperatures this can be run in plastic. These boilers simply increase the heat transferred to the water while CHP boilers provide electricity via an engine. In practice there is a more commanding difference in that condensing boilers are available and have a track record in the UK and the Netherlands.
In short condensing boilers are the most efficient type of home heating system. They work by recovering wasted heat from conventional boilers and using it to carry on heating up the water.Whilst most new boilers fitted should be condensing boilers there are three main types: regular, system and condensing. Each has different characteristics and has specific plumbing and space requirements. Condensing boiler Installation costs may be lower and fitting is often less disruptive than with a conventional boiler. However, because the hot water heats on demand it runs more slowly – which basically means it takes longer to run your bath.
Tags: Insulation, , hvac
Tags: Insulation, , hvac
