Energy-efficient boilers: a perfect way to save

What are energy-efficient boilers?

Energy-efficient boilers are designed and constructed to use minimal energy while providing the heat and hot water needed to warm your home and supply the entire heating system.

Their standout feature is the reason behind their name: their high energy efficiency. They achieve this by converting more fuel into usable heat, minimising unnecessary energy consumption and lowering greenhouse gas emissions.

When choosing an energy-efficient boiler, it’s important to consider your home’s specific needs, the characteristics of the existing heating system, and any available subsidies or incentives that you may benefit from.

Types of energy-efficient boilers

There are several types of energy-efficient boilers, each designed to meet specific needs.

High-efficiency condensing boilers

The most commonly known type, high-efficiency condensing boilers, uses exhaust gas heat to preheat the return water, generating heat without consuming excess fuel. As a result, they’re one of the most widely recommended options in terms of energy efficiency.

Combi boilers

Combination boilers, known as ‘combi boilers,’ provide both heating and hot water on demand, eliminating the need for a separate storage tank. This makes them not only highly efficient but also much more compact, saving valuable space.

Low-temperature boilers

Unlike the previous two types, low-temperature boilers operate at significantly lower temperatures than conventional models by making use of residual heat. With an average operating temperature of just 60°C, they improve efficiency, reduce heat loss, and require less energy to heat water.

Biomass boilers

Lastly, there are biomass boilers, a type you may already be familiar with. They run on organic materials such as wood pellets or agricultural waste. They are among the most sustainable and energy-efficient choices, although they may not be suitable for all situations. Similarly, gasification boilers—similar to biomass boilers—use a gasification process to burn wood and other solid fuels.

Key features of energy-efficient boilers

As we've seen, despite their differences, all energy-efficient boilers share certain key characteristics:

These boilers offer high performance, typically over 90%, meaning they convert more than 90% of the fuel into usable heat and waste minimal energy.  Additionally, by producing less carbon dioxide (CO₂) and other pollutants, they offer a more environmentally friendly solution.

Many energy-efficient boilers use condensing technology, which recovers heat from exhaust gases to further improve efficiency. Equipped with smart thermostats and advanced control systems, they allow for precise control of both temperature and operating time. Considering that their insulation is also typically far superior than that of conventional boilers, energy utilisation is very high.

The easiest way to ensure you're choosing a truly energy-efficient boiler is to check its energy label, since energy-efficient models are always rated A.

Benefits of energy-efficient boilers

• Energy cost savings: thanks to their high efficiency, these boilers use less fuel to generate the same amount of heat, which helps reduce energy bills.
• Reduced emissions: they produce fewer greenhouse gases and other pollutants, contributing to environmental protection.
• Enhanced comfort: energy-efficient boilers provide more consistent and efficient heating, improving comfort in your home.
• Lower maintenance: these boilers typically require less maintenance and have a longer lifespan thanks to their advanced design and the high-quality materials used in their manufacturing.
• Incentives and subsidies: in many countries, tax incentives and subsidies are available for installing energy-efficient boilers, which can help offset the initial installation costs.

Maximise benefits with proper maintenance

As we have seen, energy-efficient boilers offer numerous benefits and can be a perfect fit for our household consumption habits. However, by combining their cost-effectiveness with a maintenance service that keeps our boiler and system in optimal condition, we can extend the lifespan of the entire heating system while also saving money.

With our Comprehensive Gas Maintenance service, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that your energy-efficient boiler, heating circuit, and gas system will always be in perfect condition. Our initial diagnosis and annual check-ups help you anticipate unexpected breakdowns. By maintaining your system properly, you'll extend the lifespan of your equipment, optimise its consumption, and reduce your gas bills.