Can I replace an existing back boiler?

elcartero

Replacing the system with a, admittedly more efficient wall-mounted boiler would present major problems, upheaval and expense in my 1870s terrace so I would be quite happy with a new back boiler but have been told by several installers that this is no longer legal.
If anyone could clarify the situation for me I would be most grateful.

helping_hubby

We're having a combi put in the kitchen but wehn getting quotes I asked about other options and we were told that new back boilers aren't allowed to be installed.

kimmoss88

I think it's because they're bad for the environment, so they've been banned. (My dad does plumbing and heating, I vaguely remember a conversation on this subject)

Farway

You can get new back boiler AFAIK,
http://www.bpindex.co.uk/manf.html?id=588

http://www.invictagas.co.uk/Gas_Back_Boilers.htm

but TBH there will be so many environmental and legal hoops to overcome that my guess is no installer would want to touch it with a barge pole, or at a price you like, even assuming they are made any more

You will probably get a grant to help replace your old boiler with a modern condensing one

derrick

http://www.centralheating.co.uk/index/fuseaction/site.articleDetail/con_id/5175




Under recent building regulations, an old back boiler in the fireplace area should be replaced by a condensing or high efficiency boiler. Back boilers are known as open flued models, which should, in most cases, no longer be sold. The only exception is when it is either too complicated or expensive to install a condensing boiler. In that case a back boiler can be fitted providing it achieves a minimum 78% SEDBUK efficiency. SEDBUK stands for Seasonal Efficiency of Domestic Boilers in the UK. Many customers faced with this, tend to opt for a new condensing combination boiler which frees up the fireplace to put in a more attractive gas fire, or simply leave it open.

elementelement

Farway wrote: »

You will probably get a grant to help replace your old boiler with a modern condensing one

Same boat as above, is it possible to get a grant for this?
i thought all grants etc are now for over 60's, low income etc..

wannocks

There is a points system to allow for exemptions to the high efficiency rule but I haven't had to use it for some time, that's if a back boiler can still be bought anywhere. The rule is that only A or B rated condensing boilers can be fitted in most situations. A condensing boiler is a high efficiency one and is available as a combination boiler or a central heating boiler.There are a few considerations when siting one.
A drain line is needed to take away condensate to a suitable waste system. This is mildly acidic so should go to a sewer drain if possible.
Pluming. Water vapour will be visible from the flue of the boiler. This may cause trouble with neighbours if the flue is near a boundary.
The gas line will often have to be increased in size ,particularly with a combination boiler.
HTH

elcartero

Thanks, everyone for the information and links....looks like I'll be having a boiler in the loft...apparently a common solution to my problem....

mrtoad444

Until recently there was no back boiler available which met modern standards but Baxi are now producing one. It meets current requirements and comes with its own range of electric fires with flame effects and a choice of surrounds. Check it out on Baxi.co.uk. I don't work for Baxi my brother has had the same problem as you in a small bungalow with little exterior wall space.

ziggyman99

mrtoad444 wrote: »

Until recently there was no back boiler available which met modern standards but Baxi are now producing one. It meets current requirements and comes with its own range of electric fires with flame effects and a choice of surrounds. Check it out on Baxi.co.uk. I don't work for Baxi my brother has had the same problem as you in a small bungalow with little exterior wall space.

They cost an arm and a leg, are limited to 15kw and you often struggle to get the condensate away despite having a pump.