condensing boilers and water heaters

Condensing boilers and water heaters are between the most efficiency appliances of their kind. They operate with high efficiencies (above 90%...).

What's the condensing technology

Condensing technology reuses the combustion gases and the water vapor instead of letting them to get away through the flue (like regular boilers), generating more heat and heating more water with the same fuel. In UK, the term boiler is basically equivalent to the term water heater in USA. In USA or Canada, the term boiler refers to high-capacity appliances used in space-air heating (which are different from water heaters). However, the condensing technology is used by both water heaters and boilers.

The efficiency of condensing boilers is based on their dual or larger heat exchangers; they ensure maximum heat extraction...

Replacing old boilers or water heaters

If your boiler/water heater is more than 10 or 12 years old, replacing it with a modern condensing boiler/water heater can reduce your heating bills by a third or more. Fuel savings will quickly repay your extra initial cost.

Prefer the condensing technology. It deserves the difference of price.

Types of condensing Boilers/Water Heaters

There are now two big types of condensing boilers/water heaters: system-tank storage systems, which heat your hot water within a hot water cylinder, where the water is stored; and combination condensing appliances (or on-demand systems) that give you instant hot water without any storage tank.

Choosing a condensing Water Heater/Boiler

If you are replacing an old boiler/water heater, the choice between the tank-type or the tankless one depends on your home heating design.

If you have an old tank-storage model, a tank-style boiler/water heater is usually a cheaper choice. Tankless systems will demand much higher installation costs, because they require upgrades to gas lines or to the venting system, which may represent a lot of money.

Otherwise tankless condensing water heaters can be a better option, slightly less expensive, demanding less space and providing less energy loss.

A qualified installer can tell you which type of condensing appliance is most suitable for your case.