condensing boilers

Condensing boilers (gas or oil fueled) are between the most efficient boilers on the market. They allow huge energy savings relatively to conventional boiler versions, and some states are beginning to demand the new installed boilers to be of condensing type.

Efficiency

Old, conventional boilers convert 60% or less of their fuel into heat; in other words, their efficiency rate is 60%, while the efficiency of new condensing boilers are often above 90%. That’s huge energy savings (and also significant cuts on CO2 emissions).

How condensing boilers works

Condensing boilers are named condensing because they “condense” the exhaust gases, more exactly the water vapor present in those gases, extracting heat from it, instead of letting gases (including the water vapor) escape through the flue.

The secret of these boilers is on their design, namely on their dual or larger heat exchangers. Those heat exchangers ensure maximum heat extraction and small losses of gases.

Installation

Condensing boilers are, usually, easily fitted to existing heating systems, but be aware: not all types of condensing boilers (combination, regular or system boilers) are equally or easily applicable to your specific case. In other words, there are some restrictions concerning the type of condensing boiler, dependent on your existing heating system.

Installation should be done by a certified installer, who will be able to advise you on the right size and type of the condensing boiler.

What sort of boiler do you have?

Many people do not know the type of boiler they have (condensing or non-condensing). If this is your case, look at the flue (the pipe that takes the exhaust gases). If the end of the flue is covered by plastic and lets out a visible steam flux whenever the boiler is working, then you have a condensing boiler. If there is no visible steam or plastic, then you certainly have a conventional boiler.

Reliability

Condensing boilers are extremely reliable – as reliable as old boiler versions. The main difference between them and traditional boilers is in the usually larger heat exchanger. Just ensure that the boiler is properly installed.

Regular condensing boilers

There are three types of condensing boilers: regular, combination (combi) and system. Regular condensing boilers use a hot water cylinder where the water is stored, contrarily to combination and system boilers.

For detail on these type of boilers, and for help to choose the best one for your needs, see: Condensing boilers types.