What is a Condensing Boiler?

D.Thomson • Jul 26, 2020

What is a condensing Gas Boiler?

Condensing Vs Non-Condensing Boilers

Condensing boilers represent the standard for modern efficiency. They are so-named thanks to their ability to condense water vapour present in the exhaust gases, which recovers a portion of the heat. This is then used to heat up cold water entering the boiler.

Since 2005, it has become mandatory to install condensing boilers if your old boiler needs replacing. Condensing boilers significantly reduce carbon emissions and are up to 99% efficient while non-condensing are at best around 78% efficient. In the UK, all new gas or oil-powered central heating boilers must be of the condensing sort. According to the Energy Savings Trust, a new condensing boiler could save you more than £300 in heating each year. 

Contrary to popular perception, modern condensing boilers are no less reliable, nor more difficult to maintain than their counterparts from yesteryear. Install a condensing boiler one in your home, and you stand to recoup your losses within just a few years.

How do condensing boilers work?

The basic technology in a condensing boiler is essentially the same as that which you’ll find in any traditional boiler. However, in condensing boilers, heat from flue gasses being burned is recovered and recycled, helping you to heat your home for less.

In a traditional boiler, flue gases are often released that are in excess of 300 degrees C. A condensing boiler uses a larger or secondary heat exchanger to reduce this heat to just 50 degrees C or thereabouts. The heat is then used again to heat the water, reducing the demand on the gas and thereby reducing your energy bill.

This fall in temperature causes condensation, from which the name is derived. This condensation can be as much as two litres an hour for a very efficient boiler and is drained into your waste water outlet by what is known as a condensate pipe.

Because they are able to reuse energy that already exists, condensing combi boilers help to save money on your energy bills. They also have a much lower carbon footprint, helping you to combat climate change by reducing CO2 emissions.

Frozen Condinsate pipe - Useful Information

If your boiler has stopped working in freezing temperatures, then there is a good chance that your condensate pipe has frozen. Luckily, this isn't a big problem and it can be easily resolved yourself without the need for an engineer. This page will provide you with all the information needed to help you defrost your condensate pipe.

What is a condensate pipe?

Condensing boilers require an additional pipe to be fitted to carry away waste water that forms as a result of the normal condensing process. This is called the condensate pipe, it is normally plastic and runs from the boiler to a household drainage system or soakaway outside.
Evidence of condensed water running through the condensate pipe is an indication that your boiler is working normally.


How do I know if the condensate pipe is frozen?

If part of your condensate pipework is outside and does freeze during a prolonged period of very cold weather, you might hear a gurgling noise coming from the boiler and if your boiler has a digital display, you may see an ‘EA’ error code too. There’s no need to worry if your condensate pipe freezes. You can usually thaw it safely without the need to call an installer or engineer.

Top 3 Combi Boilers 2020

by D Thomson • 06 May, 2020
Currently gas combination boilers are the most popular kind of boiler in UK. However, choosing a brand from a whole range available in market, can be quite confusing and time consuming. Below is Thomson Heating's top 3 Combinations boiler that offer value for money along with great manufacturers guarantees. What makes a good combi boiler To get the best combi boiler, it's crucial to go for a reliable brand that won't break down, and getting one that's the right size and fit for your home. An unreliable combi boiler will fail early and is likely to result in regular costly repairs. On average, it costs almost £200 for a boiler repair – so it pays to invest in one that will last. 1. Worcester Greenstar 8000 Style ( Output range 30kW - 50kW) Available in High Gloss White or Black The Worcester 8000 Style boiler features innovative new technology that will maximise your comfort and give you the best heating and hot water performance on the market. With the unique intelligent filling system that constantly monitors your heating systems pressure and, if the pressure drops it will automatically re-fill your system. The Worcester Greenstar 8000 come with a 12 year parts and labour Guarantee if installed by a Worcester Bosch Accredited Installer - Thomson Heating Group are platinum Accredited Installers. Want a quote for the 8000 Style - Click Here
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