Choosing Sustainable and Efficient Heating Options

You're likely aware that in the UK, any new boiler you install must meet certain efficiency standards. Specifically, it needs to be a 'condensing' boiler, designed to be at least 90% energy efficient. So, if you're planning a new gas boiler installation, you can rest assured it will be one of these highly efficient models. But here's the kicker: many older boilers still operating across the UK might only be as little as 60% efficient! Think about what that means for your energy bills and the environment. You really should consider replacing these older, less efficient units. Not only will you help reduce your home's greenhouse gas emissions, but you'll also see some serious savings on your energy bills.

How We Rate Boiler Efficiency

You might wonder how boiler efficiency is measured. Here's a quick look at the systems:

• From 1999 until 2015, the primary method for assessing boilers was called the Seasonal Efficiency of a Domestic Boiler in the UK (SEDBUK).

• Then, in 2015, a new system, the Energy-related Products Directive (ErP), replaced SEDBUK. The ErP Directive's goal was to improve overall energy efficiency and set clear targets for lowering greenhouse gas emissions.

• Under these new ErP standards, boilers are now assigned a rating from A+++ (meaning the highest efficiency) all the way down to G.

Most up-to-date condensing boilers typically achieve an A rating. However, you might still come across some manufacturers and even some homeowners who like to use the older SEDBUK efficiency percentage (which ran from 70% to 92%) for comparison. When you're buying a new boiler, always choose a model with a superb energy-efficiency rating. This choice will significantly reduce how much energy your home uses and cut down your greenhouse gas emissions, directly saving you money and benefiting the planet.

Considering Greener Heating Systems?

Even though contemporary boilers are far more efficient than the older versions, you actually have other heating system options that are even better for the environment than conventional gas or oil boilers. These include:

• Air-source heat pumps

• Ground-source heat pumps

• Biomass boilers

To explore these eco-friendly alternatives further, head over to our common projects section for detailed information.

Your Home's Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)

Would you like to know how energy-efficient your home truly is? You can obtain an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) from any accredited tradesperson. This certificate will give you a clear picture. For your project to be a complete success, it's vital that you have open conversations with the tradespeople doing the work. Talk to them about your concerns and goals regarding sustainability, the durability of materials, and the overall longevity of the new system.