Compared to more recent condensing boilers, non-condensing boilers are older, less efficient, and more expensive heating systems. If you have one in your house, replace your outdated, non-condensing boiler with a more energy-efficient one.
The good news is that at the Free Boiler Scheme there’s a chance you qualify for a non-condensing boiler replacement grant, which can help reduce the expense of replacing your old boiler.
This post will discuss the many kinds of grants available for replacing non-condensing boilers. How to apply for a grant, and how to maximise the amount of money you are awarded. You may use the valuable information on this page to upgrade your heating system in the UK, regardless of whether you’re a tenant, landlord, or homeowner.
A non-condensing boiler: what is it?
The non-condensing boiler is a less common heating system, which is superseded by the more energy-efficient condensing boiler. To heat your house, non-condensing boilers heat water and circulate it through pipes and radiators. They are often less efficient than contemporary condensing boilers because they do not recover heat from the flue gases created during the combustion process. This may lead to increased fuel costs and a more significant carbon imprint.
Different Types of Boilers: Condensing and Non-Condensing
Both condensing and non-condensing gas heating boilers produce dependable hydronic heating (via baseboards, radiant floor heating systems, or radiators) using natural gas (or liquid propane) as a fuel source.
Conventional boilers, or non-condensing boilers, are usually floor-standing and more significant and heavier than condensing boilers. Gas is burned in non-condensing boilers to heat water, heating your house. Since it is hot, the combustion exhaust must be immediately vented through a chimney or flue.
Condensing boilers, sometimes referred to as high-efficiency boilers, are usually wall-mounted, lighter, and smaller. Before the exhaust gas is vented, condensing boilers utilize a heat exchanger to recover and recycle heat. This reduces the temperature of the exhaust gas, increases the energy efficiency of the heating process, and produces condensation inside the unit that has to be drained.
- Boiler replacement Installation Options
Since the exhaust gas from non-condensing boilers is so hot, it must be vented through a suitable chimney or flue. Condensing boilers may be vented using more extensive materials, such as PVC and polypropylene, and have more excellent exhaust gas since the heat is recycled. Additionally, you have additional installation placement freedom with Free Boiler Scheme condensing boilers since they permit 2″ and 3″ venting up to 65′ and 150 feet, respectively.
Installation locations for condensing boilers may be restricted due to the need for a drain line for the acidic condensate liquid. A drain is unnecessary for non-condensing boilers as the exhaust gas does not condense within the appliance.
- Efficiency Variations
Because condensing boilers use less fuel than non-condensing boilers, their carbon footprint and gas utility costs are reduced. Energy Star-certified Free Boiler Scheme condensing gas boilers offer an AFUE of up to 95%.
By contrast, the AFUE of conventional boilers can reach 80%. Accordingly, your home may be heated with up to 80% of the fuel used and up to 20% lost due to inefficiencies. Replacing an ageing, non-condensing heating boiler with a Free Boiler Scheme high-efficiency condensing boiler will drastically lower your monthly home heating expenditures.
- Maintenance & Duration
Whether condensing or non-condensing, boilers can last 15 to 20 years. The installation quality of the boiler, the local environment, the way you use it, and how well you maintain it all affect how long your heating boiler lasts.
Every year, our professional should examine and service all home boilers. Depending on combustion efficiency, the heat exchanger on condensing and non-condensing boilers must be cleansed once more or more.
What Makes a Non-Condensing Boiler Replacement the Best Option?
There are several reasons to think about getting a new non-condensing boiler. Energy efficiency is by far the most significant factor. Because they are more energy-efficient than previous non-condensing boilers, modern condensing boilers may reduce fuel costs and their carbon impact.
There are safety concerns to consider in addition to the energy savings. If older non-condensing boilers are not properly maintained, they may provide a fire hazard. Changing to a new boiler can help lower your home’s fire risk and other safety issues.
Lastly, you can raise the comfort level in your house by replacing your heating system. A new boiler may provide more straightforward control over your house’s temperature and more reliable heat and hot water.
Which Grants Are Available for Replacing Non-Condensing Boilers UK?
Several funding options are available to replace a non-condensing boiler, such as grants from the government, local government agencies, and energy companies.
- Government Eco4 Grants UK
The government offers several eco grants to assist homeowners, landlords, and renters modernize their heating systems. The Energy Company Obligation (ECO) scheme is the primary government payment that helps low-income households replace their heating systems.
- Grants from Local Authorities
Additionally, local governments offer incentives to renters, landlords, and homeowners who want to update their heating systems. These awards may have various eligibility requirements depending on the locality.
Energy Company Grants
Grants are another service offered by energy providers to renters, landlords, and homeowners who want to enhance their heating systems. Energy company grants might be a helpful alternative for homeowners and renters who need to be qualified for government or local government eco4 grants.
How Can I Apply for a Grant to Replace a Non-Condensing Boiler?
You must apply for a non-condensing boiler replacement grant and provide basic details about your financial status and existing heating system. Usually, you’ll need to present documentation of your income or low-income assistance and your proof of address (if you own a property).
It’s crucial to investigate the many grants offered to select the one that best suits your requirements. Before applying, carefully review the terms and conditions since each grant may have different eligibility and application procedures requirements.
For further information, contact Free Boiler Experts Experts or call us at +44 161 706 1605.
