Condensing Boilers - Suitable models

[Mika]

Hi All,

Just wanted to get some feedback/opinions on condensing boilers...

Specifically, not wanting to spend over 600 sterling pounds (including VAT) on a condensing boiler (ideally SEDBUK rated 'A'), what makes/models does anyone suggest, and more importantly from which supplier?

I have a 3 bed semi, 1 bath, 1 kitchen, 8 rads in total.

Also, as I am running around trying to get prices for plumbers to change my open vented system to a sealed system, what should I be looking at paying for this conversion (london area).

All comments (constructive) appreciated.

Mika

[Christian McArdle]

You are getting close to the price points of some good makes. I would suggest pushing just a little further (100 to 150 extra) to get them rather than no-name stuff. By the time you are paying 700-750 quid inclusive, you get the choice of the Ideal Icos, Bosch-Worcester Greenstar and Glowworm SXi, for example. They all include most (or all) of the components for sealed operation and even a circulating pump. Some have cheaper versions without the pump or sealed components.

Ensure that what you buy has a down firing burner (or other burner design that doesn't soak the burner in condensate). Ensure it has only a single main heat exchanger. (Combis will also have a secondary water to water heat exchanger).

This is part of the boiler installation. Most condensing boilers (but not all) are system or combi types. Both will have all (or most) of the components for converting to sealed operation. The only thing that must be done is to cap off the old vent and feed arrangements and remove the pump. You then connect up the pressure relief and mains water supply to the boiler. Sometimes, the mains connection is not included, but this costs a tenner from the plumbers' merchants.

Christian.

[Ed Sirett]

Christian has covered a list of suitable makes (my preference is for the Keston which includes the pump but not the sealed system bits) but they are about 750.

Most boilers can be run as a sealed system and many require this.

Converting to a sealed system is a good move and a very small part of upgrading a heating system. A guide price for the _labour_ for converting a conventional non-condensing boiler system to a sealed system PLUS all the other stuff that is likely to be needed (controls, TRVS, flushing out) is about £1000.

HTH

BTW I had a new cusomter complain last night about did I think £900 was the charge for replacing [a normal conventional] hot water cylinder!

[John Stumbles]

I trust you offered to do it for half that! ;-)