Energy Saving Central Heating Boilers

If your boiler is over 15 years old then you really need to think about giving it the elbow. 

Today’s boilers are not only smaller, neater, and so take up less space, but they are more energy efficient too. A new one will use much less fuel to produce the same amount of heat. In fact, you could save over 20% on your fuel bills, around 32% if you're installing a condensing boiler, and up to 40% if you also install the right heating controls. 

There are four main types of modern boilers using gas, LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) or oil.

Boiler ratings 

As with other appliances, boilers are given an average seasonal efficiency rating from A to G. Before choosing a boiler, check its average seasonal efficiency - manufacturers should include this in the manual. Average seasonal efficiency tells you how efficiently your boiler performs over the year. There is a special rating scheme, called SEDBUK (Seasonal Efficiency of Domestic Boilers in the UK).

Be sure to look for boilers that are labelled as Energy Efficiency Recommended and to compare the efficiency of different boilers (old and new) via the SEDBUK Boiler Efficiency Database. Alternatively, ask your CORGI registered installer for advice. The best boilers available are A-rated and have efficiencies of over 90%.

New building regulations came into force in England and Wales from Spring 2002 and installers must comply with these requirements for energy efficiency boilers. As a result all new gas boilers must be at least 86% efficient. All quoted efficiencies are average seasonal efficiencies. You will also require a minimum controls specification. Always ensure your new boiler complies with the current Building Regulations.

For more information contact the Building Control Section at District of Easington on 0191 5270 501.

Whether you upgrade your heating system or not, remember that regular annual servicing will prolong the useful and efficient life of your boiler and can prevent any disasters. 

We all need heat to make our homes cosy and warm during those winter months. But is your home unnecessarily warm? If so, too much heating could be almost as uncomfortable as no heating at all. And your home is wasting energy and costing you money. 

If you have a central heating system controlled by a thermostat, take control by turning it down to between 18°C and 22°C. Turning the thermostat down by 1°C can cut 10% off your fuel bills. 18°C is a comfortable temperature for your living room, but those who are less active such as elderly or infants usually need 21°C.

By fitting a Programmer you can pre set your heating to come on and go off at certain times during the day – comfort and warmth when you need it.

If your heating system isn't energy efficient, then it's behaving badly. Installing a nice new energy efficient one will save you money and heat your home more effectively. 

Did you know? By installing a new energy efficient heating system, you could save up to a third of your home's heating costs. 

Care and Repair - Free assistance around the home

If you are elderly, disabled or on a low income and need assistance to carry out repairs, improvements, adaptations or just general advice contact Care and Repair, Ivesley House, Easington on 0191 527 0100.

If you would like a copy of our free energy advice booklet giving help and advice on how to save energy, please contact Mr Cliff Duff, Energy Conservation Officer on 0191 5270 501, details are shown at the bottom of this page.