Boiler Plus: A Look Back at the Combi Boiler Revolution.

Boiler Plus: A Look Back at the Combi Boiler Revolution.

In April 2018, the UK government introduced Boiler Plus regulations, a set of standards aimed at improving the energy efficiency of heating systems in English homes. A key component of this legislation focused on combi boilers, the most popular type of boiler in the UK. Let's take a look back at the introduction of Boiler Plus and assess its successes and pitfalls.

What is Boiler Plus?

Boiler Plus is a part of the government's Heat in Buildings policy, designed to reduce carbon emissions and lower household fuel bills by increasing the efficiency of heating systems. The regulations stipulate that all new gas boilers fitted in existing homes must have a minimum ErP (Energy-related Products) efficiency of 92%. Additionally, all gas and oil boilers must have time and temperature controls installed if they aren't already present and working.

For combi boiler replacements, Boiler Plus introduced an extra requirement: the installation of an additional energy efficiency measure alongside the new boiler. These measures include flue gas heat recovery, weather compensation, load compensation, and smart controls with automation and optimization functions.

Successes of Boiler Plus

 * Increased Efficiency: The regulations have undoubtedly led to an increase in the efficiency of new combi boilers. The 92% ErP requirement ensures that homeowners are installing highly efficient appliances, reducing energy waste and lowering carbon emissions.

 * Improved Controls: The mandatory installation of time and temperature controls has given homeowners greater control over their heating systems. This allows them to optimize their energy usage and potentially save money on their bills.

 * Innovation in Heating Technology: The requirement for additional energy efficiency measures in combi boiler replacements has spurred innovation in heating technology. Manufacturers are developing new and improved solutions to meet these standards, leading to more efficient and sustainable heating systems.

Pitfalls of Boiler Plus

 * Increased Costs: The additional energy efficiency measures required for combi boiler replacements can increase the initial cost of installation. While these measures may lead to long-term savings, the upfront cost can be a barrier for some homeowners.

 * Complexity and Confusion: The Boiler Plus regulations can be complex and confusing for homeowners. Understanding the different requirements and choosing the right additional energy efficiency measure can be challenging.

 * Enforcement Challenges: Ensuring compliance with Boiler Plus regulations can be difficult. There have been concerns about installers not always adhering to the rules, potentially leading to homeowners missing out on the benefits of the legislation.

Conclusion

Boiler Plus has been a significant step towards improving the energy efficiency of heating systems in the UK. The regulations have led to the installation of more efficient combi boilers and given homeowners greater control over their heating. However, the increased costs and complexity of the regulations have presented challenges.

Moving forward, it's crucial to address the pitfalls of Boiler Plus and ensure that the regulations are effectively enforced. Clearer communication and guidance for homeowners, as well as stricter enforcement, can help maximize the benefits of this legislation and contribute to a more sustainable future.

If you're in the Horsham area and need a Gas Safe Registered Heating Engineer, contact Andrew Tyler for expert advice and recommendations.