How Energy Efficient is my Boiler?

Boiler efficiency lets you know how much of the fuel that is being used to power your boiler is converted into usable heat. The higher the efficiency rating your boiler has, the less energy is wasted. But how do you actually know how energy efficient your boiler is?

In this guide, we’ll discuss what the different boiler energy efficiency ratings are, how you can check your boiler's efficiency rating and what you can do to improve it.

What is boiler efficiency?

Boiler efficiency refers to how effectively a boiler converts fuel into heat.

It is calculated by establishing the difference between the amount of fuel used and the amount of heat that is produced. This will usually be expressed as a percentage.

On most modern boilers, there will be an ERP sticker on the unit about its efficiency. It will usually be displayed in ratings, so the higher the rating, the more energy efficient it is. 

Understanding boiler efficiency ratings

The rating you see on your boiler will range from A-G, which comes from the Energy-related Products rating (ErP). These ratings are based on the efficiency calculated. 

For example, a new modern boiler with an efficiency of 95% uses 95% of the energy for heating the home. The remaining 5% is used while it is operating. This boiler would have an energy efficiency rating of A. 

Commercial boilers are sturdy and reliable pieces of heating equipment, supplying heating and hot water to very large commercial properties. However, many people are actually unaware of how they work.

How do you check your boiler's efficiency rating?

One of the easiest ways to check for your boiler’s energy efficiency rating is by looking at the front of the boiler and finding the ErP sticker. It is usually displayed in rating, meaning the higher the number is, the more energy efficient it is.

However, we know not every boiler will have the ERP sticker on. Instead, you can check the model number to find the efficiency rating. You can usually find this in your user manual, or by looking near the dials on the bottom of your boiler. It will typically have a sticker that indicates the model.

The model number will contain the name of the brand and a number. Once you find this, you can input the information into the PCDC database to find the efficiency rating.

Although it is a bit of a lengthy process, it is worth it if your boiler does not come with an energy rating on it. 

What is a good efficiency rating for a boiler?

Factors affecting boiler efficiency

There are a various number of factors that can affect your boilers efficiency, including:

How can you improve your boiler’s efficiency?

An inefficient boiler can mean higher energy bills, as well as a heating system that doesn’t quite work properly.

Listed below are our top tips for improving your boiler’s efficiency:

Book annual services
An annual boiler service by a Gas Safe engineer is one of the best ways to prevent your boiler from breaking down and can help detect any minor issues before they turn into a major problem.

During a service with ourselves at Lacey Plumbing & Heating, our engineer will remove any dirt and debris from your boiler, which can help to prevent corrosion. We will also check that your boiler is set up in the most efficient way. If you’re part of our boiler service plans, we will even include repairs in your central heating system and the gas pipes.


Bleed your radiators
Bleeding your radiators is an easy task that can help to improve the overall efficiency of your heating system.

To determine if your radiators need bleeding, all you need to do is turn your boiler on and see if any radiators take a while to heat up or if they have any cold spots.


Repressurise the system
A drop in pressure can have a negative impact on the efficiency of your boiler. Don’t worry though, this is an easy fix.

To repressurise the system, you should start by checking the pressure gauge on your boiler. It should be at the 1.5 bar. If it is any lower, you can follow our guide on how to repressurise your boiler.


Consider having a powerflush
If you’ve bled your radiators and repressurised the system but you’re still having issues, then ‘sludge’ in your heating system could be the culprit. Mineral deposits in your pipes and radiators can build-up over time to such an extent that your boiler cannot efficiently heat your home.

A powerflush is when hot water is sent round your heating system at high speed, dislodging any build-up in the system. After the flush is complete, your boiler should run more efficiently.


Insulate your pipes
Insulating your pipes is another simple DIY that won’t cost you a lot to do. All you will need is some foam tubes and something to cut them with.

Insulating your pipes can help to reduce heat loss, therefore keeping your water hotter for longer. Foam tubing, or ‘lagging’, is available at most DIY stores.


Invest in a new boiler
If all else fails, it may be time for you to invest in a new boiler. All modern boilers in the UK are A-rated, so you will already be massively improving your boiler's efficiency just by upgrading to a new model.

Our team at Lacey Plumbing & Heating have years of experience with boiler installations and we know just how important it is to have an efficient and functional boiler, especially with the UK weather. If you think your home would benefit from a new, modern boiler, get in touch with our team today to find out more.

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