16th June 2022
When it comes to boilers, efficiency is everything. Heating and hot water are two essential functions any household has to have, but with a difficult economy and rising costs, many people find they cannot make the most of their boiler.
Luckily, there are ways to tell how efficient your boiler is and reduce your energy bills. OK, let’s dive in.
How Are Boiler Efficiency Ratings Worked Out?
There are two methods manufacturers use to calculate their boiler; SEDBUK 2005 and ErP, SEDBUK 2009. Both have some similarities, but the ratings can differ.
SEDBUK 2005 vs SEDBUK 2009
Both SEDBUK ratings are relatively similar, but older boilers use the 2005 system. Each boiler has a rating of between A-G, with the least energy-efficient models having a G-rating. If your boiler is A-rated, it means it has an energy rating of 90% or more.
The 2009 rating system refers to the ‘Seasonal Efficiency of a Domestic Boiler in the UK’, and while it has a similar grading system, manufacturers pay more attention to detail. Each boiler will receive a percentage score based on its efficiency, but both ranking methods evaluate the same factors.
ErP Ratings
Newer boilers all have an ERP rating, which uses a series of letter-based ratings. The difference between this system and older systems is that a boiler can have an A+++ rating, down to G. Most new boilers have an A+++ to A rating, which shows how energy efficient they are.
Why Is An Energy Efficient Boiler Important?
If your boiler has a low energy efficiency rating, it’s going to cost more to run and heat your property. Many households don’t realise they have an inefficient boiler and only notice the potential savings when they trade in the existing boiler for a better model.
Imagine a semi-detached house with a family of four. If they have an older combi boiler or gas condensing boiler, they’ll almost always have higher energy bills.
Boiler Efficiency Ratings Explained
Manufacturers know how important it is to improve boiler efficiency because it impacts a household’s finances and the environment. The energy percentage rating shows just how much gas is wasted on a property.
A boiler with a low energy efficiency rating of 60% will lose 40p for every £1 of energy you spend, while the most efficient boilers will lose a maximum of 10p.
Which Boilers Are Best For Energy Efficiency?
When we compare boilers to a few decades ago, it’s clear to see they’ve come a long way. There are plenty of models and types to choose between, and making the right decision for your household could save you money on your central heating bills.
Let’s take a look at the best boilers for energy efficiency.
Condensing Boilers
One of the newer models around, condensing system boilers, are incredibly energy efficient due to their unique design. Instead of using an open vent system as the non-condensing boiler, the vent is sealed, which wastes less energy.
A condensing boiler’s energy efficiency rating is almost always an A, so using a modern system will save you a lot more money than conventional boilers.
Combi Boilers
Combi boilers were initially invented to save more space because a gas boiler and water tank system would often take up a lot of room in the property. Boiler manufacturers combined the central heating and hot water system to save space, and before the condensing model came along, combi models were the best energy-efficient boilers.
Boiler, heating & home emergency cover 
