What Energy Efficiency means for the environment

We realise that when fossil fuels burn they cause damaging greenhouse gases. Every one has heard of global warming and one quarter of the UK's carbon dioxide emissions every year originate from the energy used to heat and light our homes.

Producing products that use less of these essential fuels and thus cause less of a damaging effect on the environment are at the top of our agenda. Replacing a boiler, which is over 15 years, old with a new condensing model will save over a third on your fuel bills and reduce the emissions collectively responsible for climate change. We can help you by providing an extensive choice of boilers from which to choose.

Committment to Energy Efficiency

As the market leader in the UK you would expect Baxi Potterton to be well placed to respond to social and environmental change. We believe we are not only responding but are actually leading the way in terms of our approach to providing energy efficient products to the market place.

All Baxi Potterton products are listed on the SEDBUK Boiler Efficiency Database. This database lists the seasonal efficiency of all domestic boilers in the UK. Our newer models have actually gained Energy Efficiency Recommended status.

From March 2002 all gas boilers must be 78% efficient or more. We are pleased to say that all of our current range already meet that criteria whilst our new high efficiency range are over 90% efficient.

But, it has to be mentioned, that the flow can be limited if other taps are running simultaneously. That said, it provides almost instantaneous steaming hot water. Literally on tap.Whenever you need it. And no waste. There is no storage cylinder to heat first. Or to run cold. There are no tanks to find space for.

Pro's

• Almost instantaneous hot water
• Drinkable water at all taps
• No tank in the roof space
• No cylinder so more space
• No airing cupboard so more space

Con's

• Draw-off can be limited, as can flow rates
• Delayed hot water in summer months with some models (not storage combis)
• No airing cupboard for storage
• No immersion heater so no back-up

Glossary of Technical Terms 

Combi

This is the name given to a boiler that heats water instantaneously on opening a hot tap. There are no tanks in the loft and no storage cylinder. The water is fed from the mains so the water pressure is generally stronger.

 

Controls

All boilers have controls that allow you to adjust the water temperature (thermostat). You may also find a water pressure gauge and a digital or mechanical timer.

 

DHW

Domestic Hot Water.

 

Expansion Vessel

As the water in the heating system gets hot it expands; in sealed systems the 'expansion vessel' (a small pressurised container) accommodates the extra volume.

 

Flow Rates

Generally the term 'flow rates' is associated with combis. It refers to how much water (usually measured in litres) can be heated as it flows through the pipes in a given time (usually per minute). A powerful boiler will heat more water therefore providing a better flow rate.

 

Flue

All boilers have some sort of flue system; there are typically two types as follows:

 

F&E Tank

Usually found in the loft; traditional systems use two. One feeds fresh water to the hot water storage cylinder and the other one (usually smaller) maintains the correct level of water in the heating system. They also allow for expansion of the water in either when it gets hot ‚ hence the name 'feed and expansion' tank.

 

High Efficiency (condensing)

All High Efficiency boilers are environmentally friendly and operate at up to 96% efficiency compared to standard boilers at around 80% efficiency. They recover heat that is normally lost into the atmosphere via the flue gases. Installation: Depending on the model, your boiler may be wall mounted, floor standing or hidden away in a fireplace. Many wall-mounted boilers are small enough to be concealed in a kitchen wall cupboard.