Can a new boiler lower your energy bills? Discover how modern energy-efficient boilers reduce waste and save you money on heating costs. Find out more today!
How Boilers Affect Your Energy Use
Boilers have a major impact on your home’s overall energy consumption since they provide both heating and hot water. The type and efficiency of your boiler can directly influence how much energy you use, which in turn, affects your energy bills.
Older boilers, particularly those over 10 to 15 years old, tend to be far less efficient than modern models. Many older boilers are non-condensing and operate at around 60–70% efficiency, meaning that a large portion of the fuel is wasted as the heat escapes through the flue.
On the other hand, modern condensing boilers are built to recover and reuse heat that older systems would typically lose. A-rated condensing models can reach efficiency levels of over 90%, meaning they need less energy to generate the same amount of heat, making them far more cost-effective and environmentally friendly.
Old vs New Boilers: What’s the Difference?
Older boilers, especially those more than 10 years old, are usually non-condensing models with lower efficiency ratings. This means that a substantial amount of heat escapes through the flue. Older boiler systems also tend to lack advanced controls or programmable timers, which can lead to longer operating times and increased energy consumption.
In contrast, new boilers are designed to be far more energy-efficient. Condensing boilers recover excess heat from the exhaust gases and reuse it to heat water, which significantly reduces your energy waste. Most modern A-rated condensing boilers operate at over 90% efficiency, meaning that only a small percentage of energy is lost in the process.
Many modern systems come with smart thermostats, programmable timers, and zoning options that allow you to heat specific parts of your home. These features help you reduce your energy usage and make your heating system more cost-effective and comfortable.
Furthermore, new boilers are generally more reliable and need less maintenance over time, which can save you money in the long run. Many new boilers also come with extended warranties, which help reduce the likelihood of unexpected repair costs.
How Much Can You Save with a New Boiler?
On average, replacing a G-rated (low-efficiency) boiler with an A-rated (high-efficiency) boiler can save a typical semi-detached home up to £300 per year in heating costs.
For larger homes, these savings can exceed £400 annually, while smaller flats or bungalows might see annual reductions of £100 to £200.
These savings mainly result from the improved efficiency of modern boilers, which can exceed efficiency levels of 90%, compared to older models that often operate at just 60-70% efficiency.
These savings aren't limited to just energy bills alone. New boilers are also less likely to break down and often come with warranties of up to 10 years, which can reduce the cost of repairs and maintenance.
While the initial cost of a new boiler can be high, the long-term savings and increased energy efficiency often make the investment worthwhile.
What Makes a Boiler Energy Efficient?
Modern boilers are built to recover and reuse heat that older, non-condensing systems would lose through the flue, allowing them to operate at higher efficiency levels. They also produce fewer carbon emissions, making them a greener and more environmentally friendly option.
Modulating burners also plays a role in improving a boiler's efficiency. These burners adjust the boiler’s output to match your heating demand, rather than operating at full power all the time. This reduces your energy usage, prevents the boiler from overheating, and extends its lifespan by reducing wear and tear.
Modern boilers are also compatible with zoning systems and smart thermostats, which let you control the temperature in different areas of your home. Instead of heating the whole house, you can choose to warm just the rooms you’re using.
This helps keep your home comfortable and also helps you cut down on your energy usage, making your heating more efficient and your energy bills more manageable.
We provide boiler installation services in Wirral, Ascot, Farnborough and Bracknell that are tailored to your home's heating needs. Our certified engineers can install energy-efficient boilers with care and precision. Whether you need a combi, system, or conventional boiler, we deliver expert services and peace of mind from start to finish.