Frequently Asked Questions About Boiler Installation
Planning a new boiler installation? Find answers to common questions and make informed decisions for your heating upgrade.
What type of boiler is best?
The best type of boiler for your home or business depends on several key factors , including your available space, fuel preferences, and budget. Here are some of the most common types of boilers:
Combi boilers: Combination boilers provide both heating and hot water instantly, saving valuable space. They are compact, efficient, and well-suited for smaller homes or apartments.
Condensing boilers: Condensing boilers are highly efficient . They extract more heat from the fuel by condensing the water vapor in the exhaust gases, thus saving energy. Because of increased efficiency, condensing units can help lower your carbon footprint and reduce heating costs.
System boilers: System boilers are designed for larger homes and store hot water separately. They are a good option for homes requiring a higher volume of hot water.
Regular boilers: Regular boilers, also known as conventional or traditional boilers, are the most traditional type of boiler, and they generally require the most space. They are suitable for larger properties with high hot water requirements and existing pipework.
A professional can help you choose the best system.
How do I bleed my radiators?
If your radiators have cold spots or are not heating up efficiently, they may need to be bled to improve heating performance and circulation. Bleeding radiators can also reduce noise levels and improve your system's energy efficiency. This straightforward process can help improve your heating:1. Turn off your central heating system and wait for radiators to cool.2. Locate the bleed valve on the radiator. A special key is often needed.3. Place a radiator key or a flat-head screwdriver on the bleed valve and carefully turn. You should hear a hissing sound as air escapes..4. Hold a cloth or container under the valve to catch any fluid that may leak out. .5. Continue turning the key until water begins to flow steadily.6. Tighten the valve clockwise .7. Repeat this process for all the radiators in your home.8. Once you have bled all the radiators, turn your central heating system on and check the pressure gauge on your boiler. . The pressure should be between 1 and 1.5 bar when the system is cold. If the pressure is too low, you may need to top it up using the filling loop, if your boiler has one. If unsure, contact a qualified engineer. By bleeding radiators, you can improve their effectiveness and the overall performance of your central heating system.
What is a boiler’s AFUE rating?
The AFUE rating measures how efficiently a boiler converts fuel to heat over a year. It's expressed as a percentage. For example, an AFUE of 90% means that 90% of the fuel energy is converted into heat for your home, with only 10% wasted. . The minimum AFUE for new boilers is typically 80%, but higher-efficiency models are available with AFUE ratings exceeding 95%. Look for a high AFUE rating when shopping for a new boiler.
What is a condensing boiler?
A condensing boiler is a very efficient boiler. They recapture and reuse exhaust heat. Condensing boilers increase efficiency and lower heating costs. They're better for the environment as well.
What type of boiler is best?
The best type of boiler for your home or business depends on several things, including your available space, fuel preferences, and budget.Common boiler types include: :
Combi boilers: Combination boilers provide both heating and hot water instantly, saving valuable space. They are compact, efficient, and well-suited for smaller homes or apartments.
Condensing boilers: Condensing boilers are one of the most efficient types of boiler. They recycle heat from waste gases, improving energy efficiency. Because of increased efficiency, condensing units can help lower your carbon footprint and reduce heating costs.
System boilers: System boilers are designed for larger homes and store hot water separately. They are a good option for properties with multiple bathrooms or high hot water demands.
Regular boilers: Regular boilers, also known as conventional or traditional boilers, require a separate hot water cylinder, a cold water storage tank, and an expansion tank. They are suitable for larger properties with high hot water requirements and existing pipework.
Consult with a qualified heating engineer to discuss which boiler type is most appropriate for your specific requirements.
How do I bleed my radiators?
If your radiators have cold spots or are not heating up efficiently, they may need to be bled to improve heating performance and circulation. Bleeding radiators can also reduce noise levels and improve your system's energy efficiency. This straightforward process can help improve your heating:1. Turn off your central heating system and allow the radiators to cool down completely. 2. Locate the bleed valve on the radiator. It's usually a small, square-shaped valve on one of the top corners. .3. Place a radiator key or a flat-head screwdriver on the bleed valve and carefully turn. You should hear a hissing sound as air escapes..4. Hold a cloth or container under the valve to catch any water that may drip.5. Continue turning the key until the hissing stops and water starts to come out steadily. .6. Tighten the valve clockwise .7. Repeat this process for all the radiators in your home.8. Once you have bled all the radiators, turn your central heating back on and check the pressure gauge on your boiler. . The pressure should be between 1 and 1.5 bar when the system is cold. Adjust the pressure if needed. If unsure, contact a qualified engineer. By bleeding radiators, you can improve their effectiveness and the overall performance of your central heating system.
What is a boiler’s AFUE rating?
The AFUE rating measures a boiler's overall energy efficiency. It's expressed as a percentage. For example, an AFUE of 90% means that 90% of the fuel energy is converted into heat for your home, with only 10% wasted. . The higher the AFUE, the more efficient the boiler and the less fuel you'll need to heat your home, resulting in cost savings.. Look for a high AFUE rating when shopping for a new boiler.
What is a condensing boiler?
A condensing boiler is a very efficient boiler. They recapture and reuse exhaust heat. This recovered heat is used to preheat the cold water returning to the boiler, reducing the amount of energy required to raise the water temperature for your heating and hot water. . As a result, condensing boilers are much more efficient than traditional boilers, which means lower energy bills for you.