condensing boilers: mandatory?

[Stephen]

Hello,

Are condensing boilers mandatory? If so, why are non-condensing models still in the brochures? As you may know from my recent posts, my boiler died and I am confused. Some plumbers have visited and quoted for fitting condensing boilers and some have quoted for fitting non-condensing. I thought all new boilers had to be efficient. What are the exact regs. and what is the definition of "efficient"?

Running a condensate drain should be trivial but I think I may need a new flue liner (see other post) of I go condensing, which adds much to the cost. I think the other plumbers were trying to save my money (or their time!) by fitting a non-condensing boiler to the existing flue.

Thanks, Stephen.

[Andrew Mawson]

models

flue.

AIUI not mandatory, however to meet the (naive*) efficiency threshold they are practically the only way to go.

*(takes no accouint of energy used in manufacture, shorter life cycle etc)

AWEM

[Lobster]

Essentially mandatory yes, but there are exceptions made for certain circumstances where for one reason or another it wouldn't be feasible to replace an existing non-condensing boiler with a condensing model. Pretty rare AIUI; normally relating to nuisance value of the visible plume emerging from the flue and/or arrangements for disposal of the condensate?

There is (or was) a flow chart on one of the govt sites explaining how to assess it.

David

[Ed Sirett]

The straight-forward procedure is difficult to collect enough 'points' to gain exemption.

More or less you would have to be replacing a gas back boiler in a flat or terraced house.

In exceptional circumstances you would have to plead your case withthe local building control officer. You explain that the only way you fit a condensing boiler will require so much more expenditure (you are looking at probably at needing to spend an extra £1500+).

The alternative approach is to disregard the law which has a smallish possibility of huge losses. It is perhaps to this market that the brochures still offer non-condensing models.

It might also be possible to install a non-condensing unit some type of commercial premises - but I'd have to check that.

[Ian_m]

My mate had a non-condensing back boiler fitted sometime last year. An old

1974 Baxi back bolier replaced with a new Baxi back bolier. Fitter ticked boxes and said "yip you are OK for replacement non-condensing boiler".

Issues were:-

- No possible condensate drain as in middle of house.

- No possibility of flue to front or back of house.

- Not possible to fit a boiler say in kitchen as kitchen too small (only 3 cupboards) and all pipework at other end of house.

Cost about 2K I think and works fines for him.

[Doctor Drivel]

There are condensate pumps.

Through the roof - boiler in loft.