Fuel Costs Too High? Does Your Boiler Need Updating?
Boilers may seem rather dull compared to that new laptop you’re thinking of buying, but the technology behind them is quietly very exciting. Old, inefficient boilers just burn your money needlessly and copiously. If it’s more than 15 years old, it’s high time you considered euthanasia. They’re generally operating at 65% efficiency or below, compared to at least 90% for a new ‘A’ rated boiler.
You need to consider the size of your property, the number of gas appliances and radiators it needs and the fuel, liquid petroleum gas, town gas or oil, before you select a new boiler. A crucial first move is to get advice from a qualified ‘Gas Safe’ (formerly CORGI) registered engineer. Also, be aware from the outset that this is not a DIY project, bad painting, decorating or plastering won’t kill you, but bad gas installation certainly can. You’ll need a qualified engineer to install it and check that it’s working properly.
Increasingly popular are the new generation of condensing boilers and condensing combination boilers, which are ideal for flats and relatively small houses. They are so energy efficient that they can save you a thumping 37p in every £1 you spend on hot water and heating. No cylinder, no tank, just instant hot water whenever you need it.
Installing a new boiler is not, in itself, property development, although it is an essential part of it. Any building work, which enlarges your property, should include consideration of a new more powerful and efficient boiler.
