Are back boilers now illegal?
If you’re thinking about replacing your old boiler, you might already know that there is a lot of variety to choose from depending on your heating and efficiency needs. One thing you might not be aware of is that it’s not always possible to replace like for like, particularly if it’s been a long time since your boiler was installed. Below, we explore the topic of back boilers, a type that was once very common within the UK.
What is a back boiler?
A back boiler is a type of boiler that is tucked away out of sight within your home, usually behind a fireplace, chimney or wood stove. Most popular in the 1970s and 1980s, these boilers didn’t require extra room within the house, making them great for space-saving efficiency. It also meant homeowners didn’t have to install cupboards or use similar techniques to keep the boiler out of sight for aesthetic purposes.
How do back boilers work?
As well as being handy for the reasons stated above, the location of a back boiler contributed to how it actually worked. When you have a fire in a fireplace or stove, while much of the heat is put out into your room, lots of it is also lost up through the chimney. A back boiler would take advantage of this otherwise wasted energy to heat water for central heating and other hot water requirements.
Are back boilers illegal?
Under current legislation, it is illegal to install new back boilers in homes in the UK. This has been the way of things since the government introduced the ban back in 2005. However, if you currently have a back boiler, there’s no need to worry. It’s not illegal to have one already in your home, just to have a new one fitted. So, while you’re not doing anything wrong having a back boiler now, you’ll need to consider alternative boiler solutions when the time comes to replace your current setup.
Why are back boilers illegal to install?
As with many things, the back boiler has been superseded by newer, more efficient types of boilers. These newer models don’t cost as much to heat your home, and they’re manufactured to higher safety standards. In 2005, UK building regulations were updated to state that all newly installed boilers must provide at least 92% efficiency, whereas back boilers can only provide up to 80%.
In addition to this, older boilers such as back boilers tend to be more prone to things going wrong. At best, this can lead to your home not heating as it should, and at worse, it could cause accidental damage or injury. Back boilers have a life expectancy of around 20 to 30 years, so many homes still have them today. If you notice any unusual noises or suspect there’s any problem with your boiler, you should call a qualified heating engineer immediately.
Boilers have come a long way
Alternatives to back boilers
Whether you’re looking for a boiler replacement sooner rather than later or you’re just browsing to learn more about your options before the time comes, it’s good to know about the different types of boilers and heating solutions currently available on the market.
Combi boilers
Combi boilers are one of the most popular boiler types out there, because they’re compact, efficient and cost-effective. There are different types, such as electric or gas combi boilers, depending on your home and preferences. While they’re not quite so easily hidden away as a back boiler, many people have combi boilers fitted inside custom-built cabinets in their kitchens to keep them out of sight but close to hand for servicing and adjustments.
System boilers
System boilers are similarly economical, such as the Vitodens 111, but require more space to install because they need a hot water cylinder as well as the boiler unit. This means that large quantities of hot water can be stored for a long time, which is ideal if you have lots of bathrooms and a higher hot water consumption.
Conventional boilers
Conventional or standard boilers require a little more space again, as these need both a hot water cylinder and a cold water storage tank as well as the boiler unit. However, these are good for larger homes that have a very high hot water consumption, as the increased storage means more hot water can be stored for peak demand times.
Heat pumps
Available as air source heat pumps and ground source heat pumps, these are a newer style of heating appliance that could allow you to become more carbon efficient and lower your energy bills while still fulfilling your heating requirements. These work by leaching heat from the outside air or ground, depending on the type, and using that heat to provide hot water for your home. The appliances can also provide energy for cooling systems in the summer, making them even more efficient.
Everybody’s heating needs and home arrangements are different, so it’s important to take your time when choosing which heating solution is best for your home. The advice of a qualified heating engineer can be helpful, particularly in finding the right appliance for your individual circumstances.
