How much could a new boiler save me?
With energy bills soaring, and another rise in prices expected in April 2023, many of you will be asking yourselves, ‘is it time to switch my boiler?’ Especially if the boiler you currently have has had its best years.
There is no simple answer, however, it is estimated that a new A+ grade condensing boiler could save you up to 30% on your energy bills, which is an average saving of approximately £580* per year – which not only means that it will quickly pay for itself, but it will help future proof you against further price increases. Modern boilers are designed to run at 90% efficiency (or more), however older boilers could be costing you a pretty penny. Here’s some estimated efficiency rates by age:
- Over 25 years old: 60% efficient
- 20 years old: 70% efficient
- 15 years old: 80% efficient
- 10+ years old: 85% efficient
So let’s look at the options:
You could continue to repair, service and maintain your existing boiler to ensure it is running as efficiently as possible. Regularly servicing your boiler will, at the very least, increase the lifespan of your boiler and reduce the likelihood of any unwanted repair bills. However, regular servicing alone will not increase the efficiency of your boiler.
Taking out a care plan will also help to spread the cost of maintaining your current boiler, and avoid any unnecessary big bills.
How can I tell how efficient my current boiler is?
The main two main systems used to determine energy efficiency are ErP (Energy Related Products Directive) and SEDBUK 2009. You may be more familiar with A-G grade energy ratings, which are based on the Europe-wide ErP directive. They were introduced to help consumers better understand the relevant efficiency of appliances based on the below percentages:
- A: 90% efficiency and above (all modern condenser boilers)
- B: 86–90%
- C: 82–86%
- D: 78–82%
- E: 74–78%
- F: 70–74%
- G: below 70%
ErP energy ratings take into account the lifetime energy consumption of the boiler and how efficient it is when it is in use.
If you’re thinking about getting a new boiler, you’ll be pleased to know that all new boilers come with an A rating on this system.
SEDBUK efficiencies
SEDBUK stands for ‘Seasonal Efficiency of a Domestic Boiler in the UK’ and represents the energy efficiency of the boiler when it is in use, not other factors including transporting and manufacturing of the boiler.
The previous SEDBUK 2005 system is featured on older boilers and is still used by many manufacturers. Like the ErP system, SEDBUK 2005 gives A-G ratings; A-rated boilers score over 90% for efficiency, while G-rated boilers score under 70%.
To check the energy efficiency of your boiler, check to see if it has a sticker on it with the relevant rating. If not, you can find out the efficiency of your boiler by inputting the model number into the pcdp database. Your model number could be located on the underside of the boiler where the pipes come out, or on the front panel by the dials. Virtually every boiler ever manufactured is on this database and we advise look for the seasonal efficiency figure, as this is the most accurate indication of how your boiler performs on a daily basis.
What type of boiler should I choose?
The type of boiler you opt for will depend on a couple of factors. Firstly the size of your home and secondly your heating system. Larger homes, depending on how they are built and insulated, will likely need a higher heat output than smaller homes. There are three types of boilers to choose from:
Combi boiler – combi boilers produce instant hot water and are a single system to create all the hot water and heat in your home.
Heat-only boiler – heat-only boilers can be used on an open vented or sealed heating system and are typically found in larger properties and are used in conjunction with a hot water cylinder.
System boiler – a system boiler is a sealed system that also combines a boiler with a hot water tank and is also great for larger homes with multiple bathrooms, or those with a high demand of hot water.
Ready to save money by investing in a new boiler?
Our team is on hand to advise on the perfect boiler for your home. What’s more, if you order by 3pm today your new boiler could be installed by tomorrow, meaning you can start saving on your energy bills right away.
We’ll also advise you on whether you could make even more savings by installing smart controls on your boiler, giving you even more control of your energy bills from inside and outside your home.
Even better? Our boilers come with up to 12 years’ guarantee, with flexible finance options, which will enable you to spread the cost of your new boiler over two or ten years, with 0% options available.
*Based on installing a new A-rated condensing boiler in England, Scotland and Wales with a programmer, room thermostat and thermostatic radiator controls (TRVs) in a gas heated detached home from an older G-rated boiler with a programmer and room thermostat. Figures are based on fuel prices as of April 2022. Savings will vary depending on the size and thermal performance of your home.
