Rising energy costs and increasing environmental awareness are causing more and more people to seek efficient and environmentally friendly heating solutions. In response to these needs, a technology that is gaining popularity and recognition from experts has appeared on the market - condensing boilers. These innovative heating devices, not only provide warmth and comfort, but also help to save energy and reduce harmful emissions. In today's article we will take a closer look at what condensing boilers are, how they work and what benefits they can bring to both our wallets and the environment.
A condensing boiler is a type of heating boiler that reduces harmful emissions
© ACV
Condensing boiler - a guide
What is a condensing boiler?
A condensing boiler, also known as a condensing gas boiler, is a type of heating device that uses advanced technology to use energy efficiently and reduce harmful emissions. The condensing boiler is particularly popular in domestic and commercial heating systems.
Condensing boilers are increasingly popular in regions with energy efficiency and environmental regulations. It is also worth remembering that the installation of a condensing boiler requires certain special technical conditions, such as condensate drainage, which must be taken into account when planning the heating system.
Features of a condensing boiler
Utilization of condensate heat
Unlike traditional gas boilers, condensing boilers recover the heat contained in the condensate, i.e. the exhaust gas. This process takes place by lowering the temperature of the flue gas below the dew point, allowing the water contained in the flue gas to condense and release additional heat energy.
High efficiency
Condensing boilers are characterized by very high energy efficiency, which means that they use a significant portion of the energy contained in the gases to produce heat. This can translate into lower energy bills and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.
Ecology
With efficient use of fuel and lower emissions of carbon dioxide and other pollutants, condensing boilers are more environmentally friendly than older, less efficient boilers.
Low flue gas temperature
The flue gas coming out of a condensing boiler is at a much lower temperature than that of traditional boilers, allowing the flue gases to be discharged more safely through the chimney.
Higher price
Condensing boilers tend to be more expensive than traditional gas boilers, but in the long term they can save money through lower gas and energy consumption.
Where to buy a condensing boiler?
Proven manufacturers of condensing boilers have a long history of creating high-quality heating equipment. By choosing a product from such a brand, you are more certain that the device will work reliably for many years. One such company is ACV. It is also worth noting the offer of BDR THERMEA POLAND and Beretta. The full list of manufacturers we recommend can be found in the search engine of the Products for Home portal under the keyword "condensing boiler".
A condensing boiler uses advanced technology to make efficient use of energy
© Beretta
How does a condensing boiler differ from a traditional heating boiler?
These boilers are different mainly in terms of energy efficiency and how they use energy. Here are the main differences between a condensing boiler and a traditional boiler:
Condensing technology
The main difference is the use of condensing technology in condensing boilers. These boilers utilize the heat contained in the condensate (flue gas), which they condense, and then use this heat to heat the water in the heating system. In traditional boilers, this heat is lost through the chimney.
Higher energy efficiency
A condensing boiler is much more energy efficient than a traditional boiler. It has the ability to use more of the energy contained in the fuel, which translates into less gas or other heat source consumption and lower energy bills.
Low flue gas temperature
Condensing boilers have a much lower flue gas temperature than traditional boilers. The flue gases are cooled so that they can condense into a liquid, rather than just flowing out through the chimney as hot smoke. This reduces the risk of fire in the chimney and allows better heat utilization.
Less pollution
Because of the lower flue gas temperature and more efficient combustion, condensing boilers emit far fewer pollutants into the atmosphere, such as carbon dioxide (CO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx). They are therefore more environmentally friendly.
Higher price
Condensing boilers tend to be more expensive to purchase than traditional heating boilers. However, they become cost-effective over time due to their lower fuel consumption and savings over the long term.
Condensate drainage
Condensate must be properly drained, which may require special installations.
In short, a condensing boiler is distinguished by much higher energy efficiency, lower emissions and the ability to utilize the heat contained in the flue gas, resulting in energy savings and a better environmental impact compared to a traditional boiler. However, before purchasing and installing a condensing boiler, it is always a good idea to consult a professional to choose the right model that will suit our needs and building conditions.
The flue gas coming out of a condensing boiler has a much lower temperature than in traditional boilers
© Beretta
Single-function or dual-function condensing boiler?
Dual-function condensing boiler
A dual-function condensing boiler, also known as a combi boiler, is a type of heating boiler that performs two main functions: space heating and providing domestic hot water (DHW). It is a compact solution that combines two important functions in a single unit, which can be particularly practical for smaller apartments or houses. A combi boiler is usually compact and takes up less space than separate heating boilers and boilers, which is beneficial when space is limited. Combi boilers are often equipped with rapid water heating systems, which means you can get hot water immediately when you need it. Installing a single unit that handles both heating and hot water is also more economical than separate solutions.
It is worth noting, that condensing dual-function boilers have their disadvantages. First of all, their efficiency in providing hot water can be limited when multiple water sources are used simultaneously (for example, several taps or showers at the same time). They are therefore particularly suitable for small households.
Single-function condensing boiler
A single-function condensing boiler is a type of heating boiler that has one main function, i.e. space heating. Because these boilers do not have a built-in hot water (DHW) function, they can be more efficient in producing heat for space heating, especially if you need intensive heating in the winter. Single-function boilers usually have simpler construction and are easier to operate than dual-function boilers, which can translate into fewer breakdowns and easier servicing. If you don't need the hot water supply function, there are more choices for single-function boilers. You can match the boiler model to your specific heating needs.
However, it is worth remembering that if you need hot water supply, you will have to install a separate hot water source, such as a boiler or heater, which may involve additional costs and the need for more space.
The final choice between a single-function or dual-function condensing boiler depends on your individual needs and conditions, such as the size of the building, the amount of hot water needed and the availability of gas fuel or another heat source.
Condensing boiler with storage tank
A condensing boiler with storage tank is a heating system that combines the advantages of a condensing boiler and a hot water storage tank. This type of solution is particularly useful when there is a high demand for domestic hot water (DHW), such as in large households. A hot water reservoir, usually referred to as a boiler, allows a large amount of hot water to be stored. Modern boilers with storage tanks often allow precise control of hot water temperature and provide energy-saving features, allowing you to customize the system to suit your individual preferences and needs. However, it is worth remembering that the cost of such boiler and its installation can be higher than for simpler heating systems, so it is important to carefully consider your needs and budget before making a purchase decision.
How much fuel is consumed by condensing boiler depens, among other things, on its power, the temperature of the incoming water and the heat demand
© ACV
How much fuel is consumed by condensing boiler?
This depends on the following factors:
Boiler power
The power of a condensing boiler is expressed in kilowatts (kW) or in BTUs per hour (BTU/h). The higher the power of the boiler, the more energy it can deliver per unit of time. When choosing a boiler, it is important to match its power to the heating needs of the building, so as not to overpay for excessive power.
Temperature of the incoming water
Condensing boilers are more efficient at lower feed water temperatures. The lower the temperature, the more heat is recovered from flue gas condensation. However, a very low supply temperature cannot always be used, as it depends on the type of heating system and the needs of the users.
Heat demand
The fuel consumption of a condensing boiler will also depend on how much heat is needed to heat the building. The larger the area and lower the thermal insulation of the building, the more energy will be needed to maintain the right temperature inside.
***
We encourage you to use the database of reputable and reliable manufacturers of boilers and heaters we are building in the Products for Home portal, as well as the articles we publish about boilers and heaters.
