Baxi back boiler

[David Chaplin]

My wife is of the opinion that the Baxi back boiler we have behind the gas fire in the lounge will need replacing soon. Anyone any thoughts on whether we should replace it with similar, if one can still get replacement back boilers, or whether we should look at a new, wall-mounted, boiler?

I guess the cheaper option is the replacement back boiler as a new boiler would need to be positioned in the kitchen, involving re-plumbing and a new flue. Any idea of approximate costs of both options?

Cheers,

David Chaplin, Cambridge

[Roger Mills (aka Set Square)]

Replacing like for like would certainly be cheaper - but isn't particularly desirable, and may not even be permitted.

Even the latest generation of back boilers are pretty inefficient compared with a modern condensing boiler. You are now required to fit the latter unless you can claim exemption - which is done on a points basis, based on the ease/difficulty of finding a suitable location for a condensing boiler. Others (Andy Hall?) can give you chapter and verse.

Either way, you'll almost certainly be required to bring the control system up to date - making it fully pumped (assuming gravity hot water at present) with TRVs on all but one radiator, and with zone valves and tank/room thermostats to ensure that everything shuts down when all demands are satisfied (boiler interlock, in the jargon).

[Ed Sirett]

Take a look at the Boiler Choice FAQ below.

[Gav]

why would you want to replace it? if it aint broke! the modern combi boilers may not be as efficient as made out by the beaurocrats! but they are certainlty more efficient than the old boilers. if you want to go to town on cost saving then get insulated wherever possible, floors, walls roof etc then get yourself a boiler that meets the requirements of your new energy efficient home. cost a bit to do all the work tho!

as far as replacement goes then in most cases it aint viable or sensible. hse/corgi and the like require only condensing combi boilers to be fitted( i think it comes into force in april or did last april) unless you have a damn good excuse not to i think the only way to get round that is to replace just about every part on the thing in stages!

my advice would be to get insulated while the boiler is fine then replace it if it breaks down seriously or at you leisure!