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The winter has finally arrived and we all know how long it’s going to stay. Without having a proper heating system, you cannot survive for long. But you also cannot expect to turn on your heating system for long as the energy bills will blow your budget away.
The problem is not whether you turn your heating system for long hours. It all comes to a boiler that is outdated and requires time-to-time maintenance and repair. If you are living in the UK, you may know that boilers are the primary source of heating.
Boilers can play a vital role in surging your bills if they are not energy-efficient. However, on the contrary, it can also be a great deal if you have a new boiler with more efficiency. One of the reasons to consider boiler efficiency is to improve your EPC rating.
Not only will you be able to reduce your bills and cut off carbon emissions, but also increase the value of your property.
It can only be possible if you have an energy-efficient boiler. But what it really means for a boiler to be energy efficient? Why boiler efficiency is important? And how to check your boiler efficiency? All this will be discussed in this short guide. So stay tuned and let’s get started.
What is Boiler Efficiency?
Boiler efficiency refers to how effectively a boiler converts fuel into heat. It is the percentage of fuel converted into useful energy and the amount of fuel wasted in the process. The ideal way to check boiler efficiency is to find where it ranks on the ErP rating. Highly efficient boilers are rated A while those with lower efficiency are rated G.
If the boiler rating is A+++, it means the boiler is highly efficient as much as 150%. Whereas if the boiler’s rating falls under C, D, E, F, or G, the boiler’s maximum efficiency is 82% while the lowest is 30%. Boilers with low ranking will be more of a liability for a household, as it may result in higher energy bills.
The only solution to avoid hefty bills is to replace your boiler with a new one. However, replacing a boiler is not everyone’s cup of tea. Therefore, you must go for a free boiler grant UK under the ECO4 scheme to avoid hefty charges.
To be eligible for a free boiler grant, your boiler must be installed before 2005, receiving government benefits such as child benefits, pension savings credits, and house benefits. If you are interested in replacing your boiler, check whether you qualify for a boiler grant, simply enter your postcode.
What is the ErP Boiler Efficiency Rating?
ErP short form of Energy Related Products is the rating system of a product’s efficiency. The rating system was first introduced in 2015 by the European Union with the aim of reducing carbon emissions.
When it comes to boilers, the ErP Directive has made it compulsory to sell only highly efficient boilers. Failing to meet the standards, boilers can’t be manufactured or sold.
Why Boiler Efficiency Matters?
Boiler efficiency is the most important aspect when it comes to energy bills. You may have noticed a surge in energy bills over the past few years. Yes, the prices have increased, but it is not the only reason to be blamed for.
The efficiency of your boiler also plays a pivotal role in surging or slashing energy bills. If your boiler was installed before 2005, the efficiency has depleted over the years. Moreover, the integration of the latest technology in boilers makes them more energy efficient.
Another reason why boiler efficiency matters is the fact that it is not eco-friendly.
The consumption of fuel is higher, while the performance and output are not optimal (less heat produced in more time). Old and inefficient boilers are therefore vulnerable to the environment and a threat to our planet.
How to Check the Efficiency of a Boiler?
Checking the efficiency of your boiler isn’t difficult. Here’s a breakdown of how to check the efficiency of a boiler and decide whether to replace it or not.
Rating System
As we have mentioned previously, the efficiency of a boiler is measured with the help of an ErP rating. Boilers with a rating of A or A+++ are the most efficient boilers while boilers rated D or below are less efficient.
The low rating of a boiler determines that the boiler will consume more fuel and deliver less heat. It will ultimately lead to higher energy bills, posing a threat to your budget.
Manufacturing Date of Boiler
The manufacturing date of the boiler is also a factor determining its efficiency. Boilers that are installed before 2005 are less likely to be efficient as compared to those installed after 2005. The efficiency of boilers installed before 2005 is almost 60%. Moreover, condensing boilers tend to be more efficient than non-condensing boilers.
Lifespan of the Boiler
Boilers just like any other machine have a limited lifespan that can range from 15 years to 25 years. It all depends on how much you take care of it by getting it checked once a year and investing in its maintenance. No matter, how much care you take, it is a fact that boilers tend to lose efficiency over the years.
If you observe a massive hike in energy bills, it means your boiler’s efficiency has decreased. However, you don’t need to replace it immediately. You can always call an expert to get it checked and recommend what can be done to improve efficiency.
Check Manual and Technical Specs
The boilers can only operate efficiently if you take care of its maintenance. However, you must also go check its manual and technical specifications to ensure it runs optimally. Not all the boilers are the same as there is a slight difference in manufacturing.
Check the manual for information like heat output, gas and water pressure, and maximum temperature. If you are unsure about how to buy and what to buy, consult a professional or simply read reviews written by experts online.
Benefits of High-efficiency Boilers
High-efficiency boilers offer several benefits compared to traditional boilers. Here are some of the benefits of high-efficiency boilers.
Energy Consumption and Savings
High-efficiency boilers convert fuel into usable heat without wasting it. This increased efficiency results in lower energy consumption and reduced energy bills. It offers more heat in extremely cold weather within a short time. Whereas, if you are using an old boiler, it may take longer to heat up your house that ultimately leads to more fuel consumption.
Cost Savings
High-efficiency boilers undoubtedly cost a fortune upfront but the long-term savings on energy bills will surely pay off in the future. In the winter season whether now or several years later, the saving on your energy bills will be mind-blowing. So don’t worry if you are going to pay a hefty price to buy an energy-efficient boiler.
Positive Impact on the Environment
High-efficiency boilers produce fewer greenhouse gas emissions per unit of heat produced. As we all know, our earth has been badly affected due to carbon emissions and other pollutants. However, replacing your old boiler with an energy-efficient will surely have a positive impact on the environment. As part of ECO4 Scheme UK, the mission is to achieve Net Zero emissions by 2050 and offering free boiler upgrade to low-income and vulnerable households.
Compact Design
Many high-efficiency boilers are designed to be compact, making them suitable for installation in tight spaces. This can be beneficial for people living in small homes who can’t accommodate bulky things in the house.
Quiet Operations, Peaceful Environment
High-efficiency boilers often incorporate advanced technologies that contribute to quieter operation. It not only helps you live peacefully but also takes care of your neighbors and overall environment.
Advanced Control Systems
High-efficiency boilers often come equipped with advanced control systems that allow for precise temperature control. This can lead to improved comfort and efficiency.
Longer Lifespan
High-quality materials and advanced manufacturing processes contribute to the durability and longevity of high-efficiency boilers. This can result in a longer operational lifespan and reduced maintenance costs over time. Whereas, old boilers need maintenance and repair after a short period, which can disrupt your budget.
Summing Up
High-efficiency boilers are in dire need for every household in the UK. Spending the warm winter season is attached to high energy bills. But replacing your old boiler with a new one comes with numerous benefits we have discussed in this post.
If you are unable to afford a new boiler, you can apply for free boiler grant offered by the government of the UK. If you have queries or need any assistance, try reaching out to contact@ecoenergyservices.co.uk.
