subject: Replacing a boiler [print this page] Replacing a boiler Replacing a boiler
Boilers last, on average, 15 years, so if your boiler is 10 years or older you should definitely think about replacing it. Older boilers are often energy inefficient, meaning they waste energy. Not only does this cost you money, it's bad for the environment too. Older central heating systems account for at least 60% of the carbon dioxide emissions in gas-heated homes. People think replacing a boiler is an expensive and complex job. However, modern domestic "combi" (short for combination) boilers are simple and cost-effective to install. Although they don't suit every home, they're suitable for the majority of domestic situations and begin saving money the moment they're installed. In fact, the majority of domestic boilers fitted in the UK today are of the high-efficiency condensing combination type. At Wickes, we sell A and B-rated Ferroli condensing combi boilers in a range of outputs to suit different homes. Quick and easy to install, they do away with the need for hot and cold water tanks, freeing up space in your airing cupboard and loft. Being more efficient, they're usually smaller than the boiler they're replacing as well. They're also cheaper to buy and install, as there are fewer parts to the system. If you already have a combi boiler, it probably won't be a condensing one so will be less efficient. UK building legislation demands that all new boilers fitted in the UK whether replacements or brand new systems must be of the condensing type wherever possible. This applies to both older properties and new homes. Naturally, replacing an old combi boiler with a new one is more straight forward than replacing a traditional heating system with a combi, as there are no tanks to be removed. A combi boiler is basically a water heater and central heating boiler combined. Instead of storing water after it's heated, it heats it on demand. A separate, pressurised sealed system takes care of the radiators. One problem has been a loss of water pressure and water heat when 2 or more taps or flow-outs are operated at the same time. However, modern combination boilers have eliminated many of these problems. Ferroli, for example, have a continuous program of improvement on all their products, and use cutting-edge technology for maximum efficiency, with minimal harm to the environment. It's important, when looking at boilers, that you select one equal to your needs. There are online calculators to help you work out the energy requirement for your household, or it can be done by a builder for a small fee. The energy requirement is expressed in kW or BTU/hr, and you should choose a boiler model with an output near this as possible, to ensure maximum performance. The other figure of interest is the flow rate, expressed as litres per minute. This is the rate at which water passes through the heat exchanger. The slower the flow, the hotter the water will be. To enable a fast flow without loss of heat, higher flow rates are usually matched by higher energy output. Emma writes articles on Home Improvement, including tips on Replacing a boiler, Wickes, Home Improvement. and how to get the best out of your Wickes DIY.
