Boiler Facts

If your boiler is more than ten years old, it may be time to think about replacing it. Older boilers run inefficiently and use more fuel to heat the same amount of water, wasting both fuel and your money.

Click here to download the boiler factsheet (88kb)

Energy Performance Standards

On 1st April 2005, the government raised the energy performance standard for new and replacement gas-fired central heating boilers (similar standards are to be introduced for oil boilers). From now on, under normal circumstances, when you plan to install a new boiler or replace an existing one, you will need a condensing boiler to meet the higher standards for energy efficiency.

Why has this change been made?

You have probably heard about climate change caused by the increasing amounts of carbon dioxide. Around 16% of the carbon dioxide that the UK produces comes from the gas and oil boilers that we use to heat our homes. The energy performance standards have been raised because condensing boilers are more efficient, just as reliable, less costly to run and produce less carbon dioxide.

What is a condensing boiler?

Condensing boilers are more efficient than ordinary boilers and produce less carbon dioxide while still meeting your heating requirements. Older types of boiler may convert as little as 60% of the gas it uses into useful heat. Condensing boilers reduce the amount of heat that escapes up the‘flue’ compared with ordinary boilers and convert at least 86% of the gas they use into useful heat. Many of them carry the‘Energy Efficiency Recommended’ logo.

Are condensing boilers more expensive than normal boilers?

Condensing boilers are generally more expensive to install, but you will:

• Save money on your heating bills
• Help to tackle climate change

Do I have to have a condensing boiler?

No. You should have a condensing boiler fitted if it is reasonable to do so, but the law recognises that non-condensing boilers are acceptable if it would be too difficult to install a condensing boiler in your home. Your installer will tell you whether your circumstances are such that you should not have a condensing boiler.

How will installers decide whether it is not practical to install a condensing boiler?

They will use a special assessment process that is given in the Building Regulations Approved Document L1. You can find this in libraries or on the web at: www.odpm.gov.uk

Additional Energy Efficiency Measures

Building Regulations require that when you replace your boiler you ensure the system controls are checked to guarantee they meet certain standards of energy efficiency. Upgrading your system controls not only cuts your fuel bill, it also increases your comfort control. For example, thermostatic
radiator valves enable you to control the temperature of your home, room by room. They also adjust themselves to external sources of heat, meaning that you’re never using more fuel than necessary. A room thermostat controls the overall temperature of your home which saves fuel and
minimises overheating.

A new high efficiency boiler, combined with room controls means an efficient heating system, less
waste and lower gas bills. So call Calor on 0800 121 4461 to arrange an appointment with your local
Calor area specialist. We can also provide details of your local CORGI registered installer, who can
give you a tailored system design and quotation.

So, with lower gas bills, reduced carbon emissions and perfect comfort control, why not give Calor a call?