high efficient boilers

boilers efficiency

The efficiency of a boiler, is a major element in the buying process. The overall performance of a boiler is given by its Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE). Many states demand minimum AFUEs  (80%, in U.S.), which is significantly higher than those of most old boilers (typically in the 55-65% range) but still below the best modern boilers efficiencies (95% and more).

So, when buying take the boiler AFUE into account, though AFUE isn’t all: Electric boilers have efficiencies around 100%, but they are a typical bad choice unless for small and sporadic needs...

Consider also Energy Star labels, or certifications by UL, ASME and other qualified organizations.

Replacing an old boiler: sizing the boiler

When replacing an old boiler, sizing is crucial. There are many oversized boiler systems, causing higher energy bills.

Before you buy an high efficiency boiler (or implement any another heating solution) also ensure that your home is properly insulated. A well insulated home will demand a smaller heating system, which will save you energy and money.

For detailed information on insulation, see: Home insulation basics.

Alternatives to old boilers

There are many alternatives when replacing old boilers in central heating systems. The more direct alternative and often a good alternative is a modern high efficiency or condensing boiler or a pellet wood boiler. They provide cuts up to a third in heating bills.

But there are other alternatives that you may wish to study. Between the more environmentally-friendly are solar-powered systems and geothermal heat-pumps..

Modern high rated furnaces are rarely an alternative, if you have a boiler and a central heating system (and the pipe system and radiators related with the boiler). In such conditions, it isn't economical to install a furnace, based on warm-air and a ductwork system. That would demand a too expensive installing and initial investment.

Good alternative boiler Types

If your water heating energy bills are high and if you live in a cold climate, a pellet wood boiler is a good economical and environmental choice.

But there are also more common options, namely the high efficiency condensing boilers (gas or oil). There are several types of condensing boilers, all of them considerably more efficient than old non-condensing boilers. Condensing boilers (and, namely, combi boilers) are currently the most common boilers choice.

The market is still offering steam boilers, but they aren’t a good choice. They demand higher temperatures and even the most high-efficient new versions of steam boilers are less efficient than systems based on hot water.

As to electric boilers, they aren't a true alternative, except for small room heating cases.

Boiler Manufacturers and Brands

See: Boiler manufacturers and brands

Boiler Thermostats

See: Boiler thermostats and controls