CSN News – Cracking the Code on Home Heating

It can be difficult to choose a heating system, especially with the terms such as sealed boilers and condensing ones.

Both types use gas but their operation and cost can be quite different.

A sealed boiler uses a combustion chamber which is completely closed. It draws in outside air and releases waste gasses through a special pipe. The combustion process is kept separate from the living area, which makes it a safer option.

Condensing boilers go one step further. They re-use the heat generated by combustion gases to pre-heat your water heating system. The heat produced is the same, but they use less fuel.

Because of this process, condensing boilers usually have an efficiency of 105–110 per cent, while sealed boilers sit between 90–95 per cent. The added efficiency results in lower gas costs and a reduced environmental impact. Condensing boilers release less CO₂ and other harmful gases, which helps reduce pollution and fight climate change.

Due to their advanced technologies, condensing units are more expensive up front. Nevertheless, energy savings will eventually make up for the cost of the initial investment, making it more economical in the end. Sealed boilers cost less to install, but will not offer the same energy savings.

Condensing Boilers are more eco-friendly and efficient, but they have a higher initial cost.