Friday, December 26, 2008

Repair or Replace - the Boiler Question

By Tal Potishman

UK homeowners frequently strive to run an energy efficient household. Energy efficiency is proven to save time, money and lend a helping hand to the environment. Even the government is showing concern. Building Regulations now contain set standards to which all heating and hot water systems must comply. The current state of the economy and rising prices provide additional incentive toward efficiency. Homeowners are finding it harder than ever to pay for all their bills.

Recent climate changes have brought additional attention to the topic. The number of natural disasters attributed to the changing climate raises the concern of many citizens. Often, homeowners do not know what they can do to improve the current situation. There are a number of slight changes in the home that can produce great results. Energy efficiency can be attained in part by ensuring that your home uses high efficiency heating and hot water systems. There are a number of options available to the homeowner.

High efficiency condensing technology is one option. When a homeowner is faced with the choice of either replacing or repairing their current system, they are often unsure what to do. If they are educated as to the pros and cons of their decision, the choice becomes much easier. Frequently, the homeowner depends on the installer for crucial decision-making advice. The installer is often the final factor in the process.

The high price of boilers and the required installation forces many consumers to choose repair over replacement. This poor decision can lead to future problems. While it is true that repairs lengthen the life of a boiler, they cannot improve its level of efficiency. A faulty appliance will only end up costing more in the end. The price of repair and the cost of running older boilers is often much higher than the cost of complete system replacement.

If costs don't seem to be too persuasive perhaps the following statistics will change your mind. UK households produced 21% of the country's carbon dioxide emission. Hot water and heating systems make up 80% of that emission. Energy efficiency not only lower bills but also helps the UK to reach its goal of decreasing carbon emissions by the year 2010. Heating and hot water contributes to the majority of the average fuel bill. The use of high efficiency boilers can reduce bills by 30% and save the average home 200 per year.

There are a number of makes and models to suit your needs. Key features include cast aluminium-silicon heat exchanger, brass waterset, efficient pump, and a concealed system connection that enhances performance of the product. A centrally located telescopic flue kit with preformed connections and pre-fitted mains electrical lead makes installation even faster and cheaper. The spacious interior and drop-down controls make service of the appliance easier than ever. There is also the option of buying an RF, radio frequency, version that gives the user total control at the touch of a button. Warranties vary model to model but commonly provide a 10 year parts warranty on the heat exchanger and two-year parts and labour warranty on the entire product.

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