What is a condensing boiler?

What is a Condensing Boiler?

A condensing boiler is a type of boiler system that is designed to maximize efficiency by capturing and reusing heat that would otherwise be wasted. Traditional, non-condensing boilers expel this unused heat through their flue gases, which is lost along with the exhaust. Condensing boilers, however, utilize a condensing process to reclaim this heat.

How Do Condensing Boilers Work?

When organic gas combusts in the boiler, it produces carbon dioxide and water vapor as by-products. Ordinarily, around 10% of the fuel's energy is tied up in this water vapor. In standard boilers, this vapor is expelled through the chimney, losing that energy. If you are looking for more details, kindly visit our website.

However, a condensing boiler works differently. It takes advantage of this latent heat in the vapor by converting the vapor back into liquid water within the boiler. This process surrounds the heat exchanger, enabling it to absorb this otherwise wasted heat. Consequently, this reclaiming of heat contributes to the boiler's heating efficiency. The resultant water and acidic by-products from the combustion process are safely drained and neutralized.

With boilers like the Wall Mounted Condensing Gas Boiler, the heat exchanger's design plays a pivotal role in utilizing this reclaimed energy effectively.

Condensing Essential 1: The Heat Exchanger

In the Viessmann Vitodens boiler, the heat exchanger is uniquely designed with flat tubes coiled into a spring-like shape. These coils are precisely spaced, allowing the water vapor to condense on the outside and drip through to a drain. The reclaimed heat is then utilized to heat the incoming cold water, reducing energy wastage and fuel consumption.

Condensing vs. Non-Condensing Boilers (2024)

The differences between condensing and non-condensing boilers are notable:

• Heat Exchanger: Condensing boilers have one or more larger heat exchangers to maximize energy extraction.
• Combustion Temperature: The combustion products of condensing boilers run cooler, between 50-60°C, compared to the 120-180°C of non-condensing models.
• Gas Recycling: Condensing models recycle exhaust gases, whereas non-condensing models waste up to 30% of the heat.
• Carbon Footprint: Condensing boilers produce about 5.2 tonnes CO2 per year, versus 7.95 tonnes by non-condensing ones.
• Cost Efficiency: Although they have a higher initial cost, condensing boilers save more over time due to their efficiency.
• Energy Efficiency: Condensing boilers achieve up to 99% efficiency compared to non-condensing models, which reach up to 78%.

What Are the Advantages of Condensing Boilers?

The advantages of condensing boilers include:

• Increased energy efficiency
• Lower carbon footprint
• Safer for your home

Increased Energy Efficiency

Condensing boilers offer significantly higher efficiency than traditional models. Older, non-condensing boilers typically wasted up to 30% of their heat. In contrast, condensing models use a Flue Gas Heat Recovery System to recycle this heat, achieving up to 99% efficiency. This translates to substantial energy savings—up to £310 per year, according to the Energy Saving Trust.

Lower Carbon Footprint

Since 2005, condensing boilers have been mandatory for replacing old boilers due to their substantial carbon emission reductions. These boilers can also help you save on fuel bills and may qualify for grants like the Boiler Upgrade Scheme.

Safer for Your Home

Modern condensing boilers are better sealed and feature safety devices like pressure relief valves and thermostats that shut the system down in case of a malfunction, reducing risks associated with toxic substance exposure.

Have these advantages sparked your interest in condensing boilers? Get in touch with our network of professional providers to learn more about how condensing boilers can benefit your home or business. We'll provide you with up to 3 free, no-obligation quotes and guide you through the process from start to finish. Get started by simply clicking the link below:

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What Are the Disadvantages of Condensing Boilers?

While condensing boilers are highly efficient, they do come with some disadvantages:

More Complex Systems

The complex internal systems of condensing boilers can increase the likelihood of malfunctions, such as a frozen condensate pipe in cold weather. Regular maintenance is necessary to prevent acid corrosion.

More Expensive to Maintain

Due to their technical complexity, condensing boilers can be more costly to maintain compared to non-condensing boilers. However, their longevity and fuel efficiency offset these maintenance costs over time.

If your old non-condensing boiler is still working efficiently, it may be best to keep it. However, switching to a condensing boiler is advisable once the efficiency drops and it becomes uneconomical to maintain the old model.

How to Choose the Condensing Boiler That Fits You Best?

Several factors should be considered when switching to a condensing boiler, including house size, boiler type, cost, output size, and fuel type. To simplify your decision-making process, GreenMatch experts have compiled detailed information about various boiler manufacturers and types available in the UK. Comparing up to 3 quotes can help you find a boiler installer that matches your needs, at no cost and obligation-free.

Contact us to discuss your requirements for Wall Mounted Condensing Gas Boiler. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.