a BOXT boiler engineer stands next to a white boiler taking a reading

Explore the factors contributing to high gas prices in the UK, how your bill is calculated, and whether analysts predict a rise or fall in gas prices in 2024.

<p>The rise in energy prices in 2022 put many people under a significant financial strain and forced us all to review how much energy we use.</p>
<p>In this guide, we explore why gas prices have increased and what the future could hold for our energy bills as we look ahead to 2024. But first, let's explore how energy prices are calculated and what affects the price of our gas bills.</p>
<h2>How are energy prices calculated?</h2>
<p>Energy prices are made up of different charges, including unit rates, standing charges, and taxes, including VAT.</p>
<ol>
<li>Unit rates are the price charged per unit of electricity or gas, measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh).</li>
<li>The standing charge is set by your energy provider and is incurred daily. Essentially, it&rsquo;s what you pay for being connected to the grid. Even if you don't use gas or electricity, you'll still have to pay a standing charge.</li>
</ol>
<h3>What are wholesale energy prices?</h3>
<p>Energy suppliers buy gas and electricity from companies on the wholesale market, and these fees make up about a third of your energy bill.</p>
<p>Wholesale energy prices are based on the global gas and electricity market, meaning they can fluctuate very quickly. Demand also plays a significant role in prices, so gas and electricity prices are typically higher in winter. &nbsp;</p>
<h3>What other factors affect gas prices?</h3>
<p>As well as the wholesale cost of gas and electricity, your energy provider will charge network costs - these contribute to the upkeep of the gas pipes and infrastructure that carry energy into your home or business.</p>
<p>Network costs vary from year to year; e.g. they may be increased to reflect usage or how funds need to be allocated to different parts of the network. Additionally, network costs cover 'balancing' charges, which help to ensure the constant supply and demand for electricity and gas can be accommodated.</p>
<p>Secondly, large suppliers are required to help pay for Government energy policies. These could cover schemes to support energy efficiency improvements and help vulnerable people.</p>
<p>Other costs that will impact your gas bills include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Meter maintenance and installation</li>
<li>Third-party services, including sales commissions</li>
<li>Smart metering programme costs</li>
<li>Administration from data and settlement services</li>
</ul>
<h2>What is the energy price cap?</h2>
<p>The energy price cap was introduced by Ofgem in 2019 and is designed to prevent people from being overcharged on their gas and electricity bills.</p>
<p>The price cap limits what you pay for the gas and electricity you use and sets a maximum daily standing charge. Amongst other things, the energy price cap is based on wholesale prices, but it only applies to the rates, so the more you use, the more you pay.</p>
<p>As of April 1st 2024, the current price cap level is &pound;1,690 per year for an average household paying by direct debit.</p>
<p>If you own your own company, you will already know that business energy prices are not capped and although business energy rates are falling, Government support has also been cut.</p>
<h2>Why are gas and electricity prices so high?</h2>
<p>Despite the energy price cap, prices have fluctuated for several reasons that have all created an array of problems, from Russia invading Ukraine to the energy crisis. These things have all seemingly happened at once, too, and, unfortunately, have impacted our energy bills considerably.</p>
<p>To help you understand why your bills have increased so much, here are the key reasons gas prices are so high.</p>
<h3>Long winters</h3>
<p>Over the last few years, it has felt like winter started in October and lasted right through until March. These longer cold spells have led us all to rely more on our heating. It's not just affected the UK, but the rest of Europe and parts of Asia.</p>
<p>These chillier temperatures have led to increased demand worldwide for gas, which in turn has reduced supplies more quickly.</p>
<h3>The war in Ukraine</h3>
<p>In solidarity with Ukrainians following the Russian invasion in February 2022, many European countries decided to cease purchasing oil and gas from Russia. Until then, Russian supplies accounted for approximately 40% of the EU&rsquo;s oil and gas, meaning countries have been forced to look elsewhere.</p>
<p>This now global supply versus demand deficit has contributed to price increases and caused panic buying, furthering the rate of inflation.</p>
<h3>Increased demand in other countries</h3>
<p>In recent years, Asian nations like China, Japan and South Korea have all bought large quantities of liquefied natural gas (LNG) to reduce their reliance on coal.</p>
<p>Similarly, South American countries have imported significantly more LNG. This increased demand has meant the UK cannot access the same supplies of LNG as it needs to keep prices down.</p>
<p>This combination of problems has increased the demand for gas worldwide, ramping up the pressures on gas exporters and driving up the cost of gas.</p>
<h2>Will energy prices be reduced?</h2>
<p>As the demand for gas reduces during the spring and summer months and we rely on our heating less, the energy price cap will most likely fall to reflect the differences in our heating habits. The price cap is also expected to rise during the winter; however, it is expected to be lower than in recent years.</p>
<p>While it is hard to estimate what will precisely happen to UK energy prices, many experts are forecasting that the energy price cap will fall over the next year. <a href="https://www.cornwall-insight.com/predictions-and-insights-into-the-default-tariff-cap/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Cornwall Insight</a>, for example, has predicted that we could finish 2024 with an energy price cap of &pound;1,521.02, a reduction of over &pound;400 compared to the start of the year.</p>
<p>So, after the financial pressures of the last few years, we may have some good news to look forward to when future energy price cap levels are announced in the coming months.</p>
<h2>How can you keep your energy bills low?</h2>
<p>The first thing you can do is look at how much energy you're currently using and identify improvement areas. This could include spending less time in the shower or boiling the kettle with less water. These changes may seem small, but over a year, they will positively impact your bills.</p>
<p>Additionally, to help you save money on your energy bills, you can:</p>
<ul>
<li>Turn your thermostat down by one degree.</li>
<li>Use a smart meter to track usage and habits.</li>
<li>Invest in thermostatic radiator valves.</li>
<li>Ensure your boiler and heating system is suitable for your home.</li>
<li>Switch to alternative energy sources, e.g. by having <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/solar">solar panels</a> installed.</li>
</ul>
<p>Read our guide for <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/guides/simple-ways-to-save-money-on-your-energy-bills">ten more ways to save money on your energy bills</a>.</p>
<p>Another way you could reduce your gas bills is by investing in a <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/boiler-replacement" rel="follow">new boiler</a>. With higher gas prices, switching to a more energy-efficient appliance could help you save. So, if your boiler's on the blink, use our <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/find-a-boiler/">find a boiler tool</a>, and we could install your new appliance as early as tomorrow.</p>

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Why are gas prices so high?

Are you running into issues with your combi boiler? Read our guide on common combi boiler problems and how to fix them to restore order to your home.

<p><a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/combi-boilers" rel="follow">Combi boilers</a>, sometimes known as combination boilers, are among the most popular home heating systems in the UK. They&rsquo;re energy-efficient, affordable, and compact, making them ideal for large numbers of households nationwide. &nbsp;</p>
<p>Combi boilers offer a wealth of advantages, but like any appliance, they are susceptible to the odd mishap.</p>
<p>If your home's boiler or central heating system isn&rsquo;t working as it should, it can feel like the end of the world, but don&rsquo;t worry&mdash;help is at hand.</p>
<p>In this guide, we&rsquo;ll help you troubleshoot some of the most common combi boiler problems so that you or your engineer can get things back up and running as soon as possible.</p>
<h2>The most common combi boiler problems</h2>
<p>Below are some of the combi boiler problems our engineers often encounter.&nbsp;</p>
<p>In most cases you will need to contact a Gas Safe registered engineer who&rsquo;ll be able to come and investigate.</p>

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<h3>No hot water</h3>
<p>Finding yourself without hot water is one of the most common (but most irritating) combi boiler issues people encounter. This can present itself in a few different ways, which we'll go through below.</p>
<h4>1. There is no hot water, but the central heating is working</h4>
<p>Sometimes, your home's central heating will work as usual, but hot water won&rsquo;t come from your taps.&nbsp;</p>
<p>In this scenario, The two things listed below, amongst many others, could be causing this problem.&nbsp;</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Faulty diverter valve</strong>: In a combi boiler, the diverter valve directs hot water to the taps or the central heating system. If the valve isn&rsquo;t working as it should, it may not switch to the hot water mode when required.</li>
<li><strong>Scale/magnetite buildup</strong>: Over time, the accumulation of scale or magnetite in a combi boiler&rsquo;s plate heat exchanger could restrict or even block the flow of water through it, which would cause the boiler not to produce hot water and potentially overheat.</li>
</ul>
<p>For any of the potential causes listed above, you must <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/boiler-repair" rel="follow">contact a Gas Safe registered engineer</a> to come and take a look.</p>
<h4>2. There is no hot water and no central heating</h4>
<p>Here are some likely causes of no hot water or central heating in your home:</p>
<ul>
<li>Loss of water pressure: A considerable loss of water pressure in the system can prevent the boiler from operating for both hot water and central heating. If there isn&rsquo;t enough water, it won&rsquo;t be circulating in the home and safety devices in modern boilers will prevent it from lighting to protect the boiler.</li>
<li>Faulty programmer or timer switch: A malfunctioning programmer or timer switch may not signal the thermostats or boiler to produce hot water or activate the central heating.</li>
<li>Ignition issue: Problems with the boiler's ignition system or electronic controls can prevent it from firing up for hot water or heating.</li>
</ul>
<p>To resolve these issues, you can try a manual reset by following the manufacturer&rsquo;s instructions or&nbsp;<a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/guides/boiler-pressure" rel="follow">repressurising your boiler</a>. If neither of these fixes gets things back up and running, <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/boiler-repair" rel="follow">contact a Gas Safe registered engineer</a>, who can investigate further.</p>
<h4>3. There is hot water, but only when the heating is on</h4>
<p>If your combi boiler only produces hot water when the heating is on simultaneously, there will likely be an error.</p>
<p>Here are the main ones to look out for:</p>
<ul>
<li>Faulty diverter valve: As mentioned, this valve directs hot water to the heating system or the domestic hot water supply, depending on the user's selection. If the diverter valve is faulty or stuck, it may not move into the hot water position when required.</li>
<li>Faulty thermistor: If it is defective or malfunctioning, it can impact the boiler's ability to produce and deliver hot water on demand.</li>
</ul>
<p>Unfortunately, neither of these are DIY fixes. Contact a Gas Safe registered engineer to ensure your combi boiler&rsquo;s fault is investigated and repaired safely.&nbsp;</p>
<h3>Water leaking</h3>
<p>If your combi boiler leaks, you might first notice a drop in the water pressure in your system. When you look at the combi boiler, you might see a puddle forming or a stain beneath the appliance where water has gathered and dried.</p>
<p>Leaking water can indicate that internal components within the boiler are damaged and need replacing, such as the boiler's hydraulic blocks, O rings, seals and gaskets. Alongside this, leaking water out of your blow off pipe outside could mean you have a faulty pressure relief valve or issues with your boiler&rsquo;s expansion vessel.</p>
<p>If water is leaking from your boiler, the whole system must be inspected. These repairs are technical and can require specialist equipment, meaning you must <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/boiler-repair" rel="follow">contact a Gas Safe registered engineer</a> rather than trying to carry them out yourself.</p>
<h3>No pilot light</h3>
<p>If you have an older combi boiler that fails to ignite or shows signs of intermittent heating, there may be an issue with the pilot light. You can sometimes see your pilot light from outside your combi boiler via a sight glass.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The boiler's pilot light could be struggling to light for several reasons, including an issue with the gas supply or a blocked/dirty pilot burner assembly.</p>
<p>A Gas Safe registered engineer must investigate any combi boiler issues relating to gas supplies or faulty ignitions.&nbsp;</p>
<h3>Thermostat error</h3>
<p>If your combi boiler isn't responding to changes you're making on your room thermostat, there could be an error with your home's wireless network, or if you have a hard-wired thermostat, the thermostat itself could be faulty. Another telltale sign of a thermostat error is inaccurate temperature readings from the system and uneven heat distribution around the home.</p>
<p>The causes of a thermostat error can be things like incorrect wiring, signal loss, or boiler control board issues.</p>
<p>Here are some simple solutions that might help:</p>
<ul>
<li>Check the batteries if the thermostat is wireless</li>
<li>Reset the thermostat settings</li>
<li>Update the software</li>
</ul>
<p>If you&rsquo;ve tried the above DIY fixes and are still experiencing issues, <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/boiler-repair" rel="follow">get in touch with a Gas Safe registered engineer</a>. During a callout, they'll check your whole system and get to the bottom of any issues.</p>
<h3>Loss of pressure</h3>
<p>A loss of pressure within your combi boiler can cause your entire system not to heat up as it should and, in some cases, lead to what&rsquo;s known as a boiler lockout. Low water pressure can be caused by a system leak or other issues within the appliance, such as issues with the expansion vessels or pressure relief valve.</p>
<p>If you think low boiler pressure could be the cause of your boiler issue, you can check the pressure gauge on the front of the system. The needle should be sitting in the green zone between 1 and 2 bar. If your pressure is low, you can try <a href="https://www.britishgas.co.uk/the-source/fix-it-yourself/how-to-repressurise-your-boiler.html" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">repressurising your boiler</a>.&nbsp;</p>
<p>If this doesn&rsquo;t work, you&rsquo;ll need to contact an engineer to come and take a look. They may need to repair or replace faulty components or carry out more complex maintenance on your home&rsquo;s central heating system.</p>
<h3>Strange noises</h3>
<p>Household appliances can make a selection of weird and wonderful <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/guides/9-reasons-why-your-boiler-is-making-a-noise" rel="follow">noises</a> as they serve your home, but sometimes, rumbles and gurgles can shed light on a more significant issue with your combi boiler.</p>
<p>If you hear bubbling and gurgling from your combi boiler, air could be trapped in the system, limescale buildup, a damaged pump, or low water pressure.</p>
<p>Because a number of different things can cause these strange noises, there are several DIY fixes you can try before <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/boiler-repair" rel="follow">calling an engineer</a>, including bleeding the radiators, checking the water pressure or adjusting the temperature settings.</p>
<p>Read our full guide on <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/guides/9-reasons-why-your-boiler-is-making-a-noise" rel="follow">why your boiler might be making a noise</a>, or watch our troubleshooting video below for more information.</p>

center

<h3>Frozen condensate pipe</h3>
<p>If you have a modern condensing gas combi boiler, it will have a condensate pipe and flue. Sections of these pipes sit outside your property, leaving any liquids inside at risk of freezing in sub-zero temperatures. Frozen condensate pipes are a common boiler issue in the UK during the winter months.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Symptoms can include gushing sounds from the boiler, frequent lockouts and visible ice on the outside of the pipe itself.</p>
<p>If you suspect your condensate pipe is frozen, you can try to reset the system. Or, if your condensate pipe runs externally, you could try thawing it by pouring hot (not boiling) water onto it. If neither of these fixes works, contact an engineer.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Here, you can read our complete guide on <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/guides/how-to-fix-a-frozen-boiler-condensate-pipe" rel="follow">how to fix a frozen condensate pipe</a>.</p>
<h3>Kettling</h3>
<p><a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/guides/boiler-kettling" rel="follow">Kettling</a> is when water begins to boil inside the boiler. Even though this might not sound like a problem, the water inside your boiler (whether it&rsquo;s combi, system or standard) should never actually reach boiling point. If it does begin to kettle, it will generate steam inside the system and, as the name suggests, cause a loud rumbling or whistling noise, just like a kettle.&nbsp;</p>
<p>In terms of symptoms, you might notice a decreased efficiency with your system. This means it may cost more to heat your home, or your boiler won't be heating up as it should. It could also mean a potential fluctuation in boiler pressure.</p>
<p>The causes for kettling can vary, but some leading causes are limescale buildup, debris or sludge in the system, incorrect pump settings or a failure causing overheating.</p>
<p>If you're experiencing kettling in your combi boiler, don&rsquo;t try and fix it yourself. <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/boiler-repair" rel="follow">Contact a Gas Safe registered engineer</a> to come and service or repair the system.</p>
<h3>Cold radiators</h3>
<p>Everyone knows that sinking feeling when you think the heating is on, but your radiators aren't warming up as they should. Maybe you can feel cold patches on the bottoms of one or more of your radiators, or perhaps certain areas of your home feel warmer than the others.</p>
<p>If your <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/guides/radiator-cold-at-bottom" rel="follow">radiators are cold</a>, it can mean many things. If you have cold spots towards the bottom of your radiators, then there is more than likely magnetite or sludge in them, which has settled in the bottom, preventing correct heat transfer. This will require a <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/guides/power-flush" rel="follow">system flush</a> to remove the sludge and resolve the issue.</p>
<p>If they are cold at the top, this will more than likely be due to air trapped in them, and they need bleeding.&nbsp;</p>
<p>If air is trapped in your radiators this can be solved by bleeding your radiators. You can learn <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/guides/how-to-bleed-a-radiator" rel="follow">how to bleed a radiator</a> by reading our expert&rsquo;s guide.&nbsp;</p>
<p>If you've bled your radiators and they still aren't functioning as expected, then <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/boiler-repair" rel="follow">call an engineer</a> to take a closer look.</p>
<h3>Repeated lockouts</h3>
<p>Boiler manufacturers use the term boiler lockout when a boiler has shut down. When a boiler has a fault, the 'lockout' function shuts the system down to prevent further damage.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Depending on what kind of boiler you own, the interface may have a flashing light or an error code.</p>
<p>Combi boiler lockouts are usually because of one of the following reasons:</p>
<ul>
<li>Fan issues</li>
<li>Pump failure</li>
<li>Power cut</li>
<li>An ignition problem</li>
<li>A system blockage</li>
</ul>
<p>To fix a combi boiler lockout, you can try resetting the system and see if anything changes. Beyond this, frequent lockouts are a sign that your system needs to be examined, <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/home-cover" rel="follow">serviced</a> or repaired by a qualified boiler engineer.</p>
<h2>Explore your heating options with BOXT</h2>
<p>While an issue with your boiler might seem like the end of the world, many can be solved by a Gas Safe registered engineer in a single visit.</p>
<p>Here at BOXT, we strive to provide prompt, high-quality services nationwide. If you ever think your boiler needs fixing, contact our team, and we can arrange a callout.</p>
<p>If your combi boiler is over 15 years old, it might be time for a more energy-efficient replacement. Tell us a few details about your home and its heating needs, and we&rsquo;ll recommend top-performing <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers" rel="follow">boiler</a> models at fair, fixed prices.</p>

Common combi boiler problems and how to fix them

a male heating engineer in a black top installing a boiler

Wondering what an immersion heater is? They’re basically big kettles. Explore everything you need to know about immersion heaters, including the pros and cons.

<p>Immersion heaters are a common part of properties up and down the country, as they can service both small apartments and large properties, but what are they?&nbsp;</p>
<p>Here, we explore immersion heaters in more detail, looking at how they work, their pros and cons, and how they match up against gas boilers.&nbsp;</p>
<p>But first, let&rsquo;s take a look at how immersion heaters work&hellip;&nbsp;</p>
<h2>How do immersion heaters work?</h2>
<p>Immersion heaters heat water via a metal element inside a hot water cylinder. Essentially, it's like a giant kettle, using an electric resistance heater (a metal loop or coil) to heat the surrounding water.</p>
<p>Immersion heaters are usually connected to the electricity via a switch, so you can switch them on and off as needed. They can also be fitted to timers so you can control when they come on and off automatically.</p>
<h2>Which homes use immersion heaters?</h2>
<p>Immersion heaters are used in a wide range of homes, from small flats to those with multiple bathrooms. In smaller properties that don&rsquo;t have a gas supply, immersion heaters can be used to heat water stored in a hot water cylinder via the mains electric.&nbsp;</p>
<p>In larger homes and properties with a greater demand for hot water, an immersion heater will ensure you have a backup supply of warm water if your boiler breaks down. &nbsp;</p>
<p>Because they use electricity to heat water, immersion heaters are also used in homes connected to heating systems like heat pumps. If your home relies on a non-traditional heating system like this, you could explore using an immersion heater to meet your hot water needs.</p>
<h2>Are immersion heaters energy efficient?</h2>
<p>Immersion heaters run solely on electricity, so they do not use gas. This means that no exhaust fumes are created during the heating process, making immersion heaters extremely energy-efficient compared to standard boilers.</p>
<p>You can also fit timers and thermostatic controls to your immersion heater. These help you reduce the energy wasted heating hot water that you may not need and give you greater control over how hot the immersion heater gets.&nbsp;</p>
<p>You can also fit your hot water cylinder that's heated by an immersion heater with a &lsquo;jacket&rsquo; that insulates the appliance and improves heat retention.&nbsp;</p>
<p>If you&rsquo;re thinking of swapping your current combi boiler for a heating system including an immersion heater, however, there are some things you need to consider:&nbsp;</p>
<ul>
<li>Combi boilers produce hot water on demand, so there&rsquo;s no need to waste electricity storing hot water you might not need</li>
<li>As the hot water from a combi boiler is fresh, there&rsquo;s no risk of bacteria building up</li>
<li>The price of gas is cheaper than electricity&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<h3>How much does an immersion heater cost to run?</h3>
<p>According to research from <a href="https://www.which.co.uk/reviews/home-heating-systems/article/home-heating-systems/immersion-heaters-a9Jd38H0aHNq" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Which?</a>, most immersion heaters use 3kW of electricity per hour. This means that, based on the January 2024 energy price cap (&pound;0.29 per hour), an immersion heater costs &pound;0.87 for every hour of use.</p>
<p>Take an example case of a 3kW, 180-litre immersion heater that runs through a full heating cycle twice daily, once in the morning and once in the evening, so that your household can shower and do the washing up. An immersion heater of this capacity typically takes around 3 hours to come up to temperature, so it would need to be running for a total of 6 hours each day.</p>
<p><strong>6 x &pound;0.87 = &pound;5.22 </strong>✝</p>
<p>It&rsquo;s important to note that while this may represent a saving compared to heating your home all day, using your immersion heater in this way means you may not be able to access water as and when you need it, which can be impractical.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The actual price you can expect to pay when using your immersion heater will vary depending on:</p>
<ul>
<li>The size of the tank</li>
<li>The amount of water you use</li>
<li>The temperature the water is heated to</li>
<li>How well insulated your hot water tank is</li>
<li>When it&rsquo;s programmed to turn on (off-peak electricity tariffs may mean running your immersion heater at night is cheaper)</li>
<li>Whether you have temperature sensors installed to automatically turn the heater off once it reaches a set temperature (leaving it running at all times will, of course, be more expensive)</li>
</ul>
<p>If your immersion heater is connected to a home solar panel system, you can heat water without relying on energy from the National Grid, which will make it more cost-effective. Of course, the process of installing solar panels has costs of its own, so you&rsquo;ll need to factor in more than just the cost savings per unit of energy to work out whether such a hybrid heating system is right for you.</p>
<p>✝ This price is an estimate based on the current energy price cap and does not include daily standing charges or additional fees from your energy supplier.</p>
<h3>How to maximise the efficiency of your immersion heater</h3>
<p>To ensure you have hot water when you need it without overspending on energy bills, you should:</p>
<ol>
<li>Insulate the hot water tank to improve its heat retention - You can do this using foam tubing around any pipes and an immersion heater blanket around the cylinder itself</li>
<li>Use a thermostatic control - These will automatically turn the heat off once the intended temperature is reached</li>
<li>Use an immersion heater timer - Turn the heater on and off when you need it, or if you're on an economy 7 energy tariff, you can set the immersion heater to turn on during off-peak hours</li>
<li>Reduce the temperature - Your immersion heater might be providing water that&rsquo;s hotter than you actually need, meaning energy is being wasted. Provided it&rsquo;s still reaching a temperature of at least 50&ordm;C to kill off any bacteria, try reducing the shut-off threshold of your heater by 1 or 2 degrees.</li>
</ol>
<h2>What are the pros and cons of immersion heaters?</h2>
<p>Whether you're thinking of investing in an immersion heater or just researching alternatives to traditional central heating systems, it&rsquo;s useful to know the pros and cons of these appliances.</p>
<h3>Pros of immersion heaters</h3>
<ul>
<li>Immersion heaters are standalone heat sources, so if your central heating boiler breaks down, you'll still have access to hot water</li>
<li>If your hot water cylinder is insulated, the water will keep warm while the heater is turned off</li>
<li>If you're on an economy 7 energy tariff, you can use a timer to set the heater to come on when rates are cheaper</li>
<li>You can use your immersion heater with renewable energy sources, like solar panels</li>
<li>Easy to use, typically immersion heaters only feature an on-and-off switch and straightforward thermostat controls</li>
</ul>
<h3>Cons of immersion heaters</h3>
<ul>
<li>Immersion heaters only use electricity, which is more expensive than gas per unit</li>
<li>The immersion heater must heat water to a minimum temperature of 50&deg;C to kill any bacteria present in the water</li>
<li>Unless your heater has a thermostatic control and timer, it may be expensive to run</li>
<li>Immersion heaters can&rsquo;t supply radiators</li>
<li>They do not provide hot water on demand like a combi boiler</li>
<li>Immersion heaters cannot heat small amounts of water, making the process of accessing hot water time-consuming</li>
<li>Even with insulation, the water in the heater can quickly cool down</li>
</ul>
<h2>Immersion heaters vs gas boilers: which should you choose?</h2>
<p>While immersion heaters can be helpful, particularly as a substitute if your central heating boiler breaks down, they are not as effective as gas boilers. As they work separately from boilers, an immersion heater will not be able to heat radiators independently, which is why people use them as part of a combined central heating system.</p>
<p>For more information on the different types of boilers, check out our guide: <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/guides/types-of-boiler" rel="follow">Which type of boiler is right for your home?</a></p>

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What is an immersion heater?

Struggling to keep up with gas and electricity payments? Find the current government schemes and clever hacks to help with energy bills here.

<p>If you're struggling to pay your energy bills or just need a bit of a boost, help is out there.</p>
<p>In this guide, we explore some of the ways that you can get assistance with energy bills in 2024, including the government schemes available for older people and those on a low income and some of the smart home upgrade schemes and clever hacks that anyone can use to reduce their annual energy bills.</p>
<h2>What are the current government energy schemes?</h2>
<p>A range of help is available to certain groups of people in the UK who need support with gas and electricity bills. The schemes include:</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/cost-of-living-payment" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Low-Income Cost of Living Payments</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.gov.uk/winter-fuel-payment" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Winter Fuel Payments</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/cost-of-living-payment-2023-to-2024-management-information/cost-of-living-payment-2023-to-2024-management-information#:~:text=The%20Pensioner%20Cost%20of%20Living,300%20paid%20during%20autumn%202023" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Pensioner Cost of Living Payments</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/household-support-fund-guidance-for-local-councils" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">The Household Support Fund</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.gov.uk/the-warm-home-discount-scheme" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Warm Home Discount Scheme</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.gov.uk/cold-weather-payment" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Cold Weather Payments</a></li>
</ul>
<h3>Low-Income Cost of Living Payments</h3>
<p>A &pound;900 <a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/cost-of-living-payment" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Cost of Living Payment</a> has been available to specific households since spring 2023 and is paid in instalments.</p>
<ul>
<li>The first instalment of &pound;301 was paid during spring 2023</li>
<li>The second instalment of &pound;300 was paid during autumn 2023</li>
<li>The third instalment of &pound;299 will be paid by spring 2024</li>
</ul>
<p>The cost of living payment is paid automatically if you're eligible, so you don't need to complete an application. You may be entitled if you receive any of the following means-tested benefits or tax credits:</p>
<ul>
<li>Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance</li>
<li>Income-related Employment and Support Allowance</li>
<li>Income Support</li>
<li>Pension Credit</li>
<li>Universal Credit</li>
<li>Child Tax Credit</li>
<li>Working Tax Credit</li>
</ul>
<p>You will <strong>not</strong> be eligible if your benefits were reduced to &pound;0 between 18 August and 17 September 2023 or if your tax credit entitlement for the tax year is below &pound;26.</p>
<h3>The Winter Fuel Payment</h3>
<p>If you were born before 25 September 1957, you could get between &pound;250 and &pound;600 to help you pay your heating bills. This is known as a '<a href="https://www.gov.uk/winter-fuel-payment" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Winter Fuel Payment</a>'. If you&rsquo;re eligible, you&rsquo;ll get a letter in October or November telling you:</p>
<ul>
<li>How much money you&rsquo;ll receive</li>
<li>Which bank account it will be paid into - this is usually the same account as your State Pension or other benefits</li>
</ul>
<p>The winter fuel payment should be paid no later than 26 January 2024. Contact the <a href="https://www.gov.uk/winter-fuel-payment/report-change-circumstances" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Winter Fuel Payment Centre</a> if it hasn't been paid into your account by this date.</p>
<h3>Pensioner Cost of Living Payments</h3>
<p>Pension credit of between &pound;150 and &pound;300 will be paid automatically on top of the Winter Fuel Payment for eligible households. If you were born before 25 September 1957 and receive the Winter Fuel Payment, you will automatically receive the <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/cost-of-living-payment-2023-to-2024-management-information/cost-of-living-payment-2023-to-2024-management-information#:~:text=The%20Pensioner%20Cost%20of%20Living,300%20paid%20during%20autumn%202023" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">pensioner cost of living payment</a> at the same time.  </p>
<h3>The Household Support Fund</h3>
<p><a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/household-support-fund-guidance-for-local-councils" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">The Household Support Fund</a> helps households pay for essentials like food and energy bills. It differs from council to council, so it's worth checking what amount you can claim from your <a href="https://www.gov.uk/find-local-council" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">local council</a>. It's currently running until 31 March 2024.</p>
<h3>Warm Home Discount Scheme</h3>
<p>The <a href="https://www.gov.uk/the-warm-home-discount-scheme" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Warm Home Discount Scheme</a> offers &pound;150 off energy bills over winter 2023 to 2024. It's offered as a one-off discount applied to your electricity bill between early October 2023 and 31 March 2024.</p>
<p>It has not been announced yet whether this scheme will be available for winter 2024 to 2025.</p>
<p>You could be eligible if you:</p>
<ul>
<li>Get the <a href="https://www.gov.uk/the-warm-home-discount-scheme/guarantee-pension-credit" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit</a></li>
<li>Are on a low income</li>
</ul>
<p>And either:</p>
<ul>
<li>Have high energy costs. This is based on your property type, its age and floor area. You can <a href="https://www.gov.uk/check-if-youre-eligible-for-warm-home-discount" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">check your eligibility for the discount</a> through the government&rsquo;s website (England and Wales)</li>
<li>Fit your energy supplier's criteria (Scotland)</li>
</ul>
<p>You&rsquo;ll receive a letter and get the discount automatically if you&rsquo;re eligible. You only need to apply via your energy supplier if you&rsquo;re <a href="https://www.gov.uk/the-warm-home-discount-scheme/low-income-scotland" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">on a low income in Scotland</a>.</p>
<h3>The Cold Weather Payment</h3>
<p>A <a href="https://www.gov.uk/cold-weather-payment" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Cold Weather Payment</a> is a payment to help with fuel costs during periods of particularly cold weather.</p>
<p>The temperature where you live has to be 0⁰C or below for at least 7 consecutive days between 1 November and 31 March.</p>
<p>You should get a Cold Weather Payment if you receive any of the following benefits:</p>
<ul>
<li>Pension Credit</li>
<li>Income Support</li>
<li>Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance</li>
<li>Income-related Employment and Support Allowance</li>
<li>Universal Credit</li>
<li>Support for Mortgage Interest</li>
</ul>
<p>Payments will be automatically added to your existing benefits, and you'll get &pound;25 for each 7-day period of very cold weather between 1 November and 31 March. You don&rsquo;t need to apply, but you may need to tell Jobcentre Plus if you have a baby or if a child under 5 comes to live with you.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Please note, these payments will not affect your other benefits.</p>
<h2>What support can I get from my energy supplier?</h2>
<p>If you're struggling to pay your gas and electricity bills or think you may soon face some difficulty, contact your energy supplier as soon as possible.</p>
<p>Energy suppliers must work with you to agree on a payment plan you can afford.</p>
<p>You can discuss:</p>
<ul>
<li>Debt repayment payment breaks or reductions</li>
<li>A review of your payments and debt repayments</li>
<li>More time to pay</li>
<li>Advice on how to use less energy</li>
<li>Access to hardship funds</li>
<li><a href="https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/node/167402" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Priority Service registration</a> - a free support service</li>
</ul>
<h2>Energy efficiency improvements for your home</h2>
<p>There is also government help available for certain home improvements that will increase energy efficiency and, in turn, decrease your monthly bills.</p>
<p>You can apply for support from the <a href="https://www.gov.uk/apply-great-british-insulation-scheme" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Great British Insulation Scheme</a> for free or cheaper insulation. You can be a homeowner, landlord or tenant. If you're a tenant, you'll need your landlord's permission before installing insulation. You can <a href="https://www.check-eligibility-for-gb-insulation-scheme.service.gov.uk/4fbe00ad-c09c-4a9e-bb21-a2cee29501ec/country/" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">check if you're eligible on the Gov.UK website</a>, and if you are, your energy supplier will be in touch.</p>
<p>For additional grants to improve your home's energy efficiency, check out everything you need to know about <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/guides/boiler-grants-everything-you-need-to-know">boiler grants</a>, our <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/solar/guides/solar-panel-grants">updated guide to solar panel grants</a>, or read about the <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/heat-pumps/guides/government-grants-for-heat-pumps">government grants available to help you pay for heat pumps</a>.</p>
<p>For quicker, simpler solutions to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/guides/simple-ways-to-save-money-on-your-energy-bills">save money on your energy bills</a>, try implementing some of these tips and tricks at home to make your money go further.</p>

How to get help with energy bills

<p>At BOXT, our installations come with a one year guarantee to give you peace of mind that your new product is covered in the unlikely event something goes wrong. This guarantee covers you for 12 months for any faults directly related to how your new product has been installed, such as the pipework or connections on a new boiler. If the issue isn&rsquo;t as a result of our engineers' work, then it wouldn&rsquo;t come under the workmanship guarantee, however it might be covered by the manufacturer&rsquo;s warranty.</p>
<p>The <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/guides/is-my-boiler-still-under-warranty" rel="follow">manufacturer-backed warranty</a> covers any components and parts within the appliance, such as the pump or heat exchanger within your boiler. At BOXT, we register the warranty with the manufacturer for you when we complete the installation, so you don&rsquo;t have to worry about a thing.&nbsp;</p>
<p>We know it can be confusing to understand what's covered by guarantees and warranties, so we're here to explain when each one comes into play.&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>What does the workmanship guarantee cover?</strong></h2>
<p>The BOXT workmanship guarantee is to give you peace of mind that if you encounter a problem that's a result of the work done by our BOXT engineer within the 12 months following your installation, we&rsquo;ll fix it for you at no extra cost.&nbsp;</p>
<p>For example, this can include:</p>
<ul>
<li>The pipework leading to or from the boiler if it was installed by our engineer,&nbsp;</li>
<li>Hand applied seals, such as those around the boiler flue.</li>
</ul>
<p>If you get new radiators installed as part of your package, these will come with their own 15-year manufacturer-backed warranty, and they&rsquo;ll be covered by our one-year workmanship guarantee too! If you kept your existing radiators, then they won&rsquo;t be covered by our workmanship - as we won&rsquo;t have done any work on them.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The workmanship guarantee doesn&rsquo;t include your first annual <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/boiler-servicing" rel="follow">boiler service</a>, however for just &pound;8.99 a month you can sign up to a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/home-cover">Home Cover Service plan</a> to spread the cost of your boiler service. Then, when it&rsquo;s due, we&rsquo;ll send you a reminder to book online, or through the handy BOXT app, and one of our expert engineers will come to visit on a date that suits you.&nbsp;</p>

Your annual service completely covered for just £8.99 a month

<h2><strong>What does the manufacturer warranty cover?</strong></h2>
<p>The manufacturer's warranty covers any problems that arise due to a fault with the product itself, including the components inside.</p>
<p>For example, this can include faults with:</p>
<ul>
<li>The heat exchanger,&nbsp;</li>
<li>The boiler fan,&nbsp;</li>
<li>The temperature sensor.</li>
</ul>
<p>If you're not sure which of these your fault comes under, use our Live Chat to speak to one of our BOXT experts, who'll be able to advise if your issue is covered by the BOXT Guarantee or Manufacturer Warranty, and what to do next to get the problem sorted as soon as possible.&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>What isn't covered?</strong></h2>
<p>In some instances, faults can arise that unfortunately won't be covered by either our workmanship guarantee, or the boiler manufacturer's warranty.</p>
<p>For example, the radiators and other pipework in your heating system wouldn&rsquo;t be included in the manufacturer&rsquo;s warranty, as they only cover the boiler. These also wouldn&rsquo;t be covered by the BOXT Workmanship Guarantee as it&rsquo;s not something we&rsquo;ve worked on - unless we installed new radiators and corresponding pipework along with your boiler.&nbsp;</p>
<p>However products such as smart thermostats or radiators usually come with a warranty from their own manufacturer, and so if an issue arises while they&rsquo;re still within the warranty period then you could arrange a repair directly with them.</p>
<p>If you do have an issue that&rsquo;s not covered by a guarantee or warranty, or your workmanship guarantee or manufacturer&rsquo;s warranty have expired,&nbsp; then don&rsquo;t worry. At BOXT we offer <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/boiler-repair">boiler repair visits</a>, where for an &pound;89 fixed fee our engineer will visit your home to diagnose the problem, and if they can fix it there and then they will! 70% of the time our engineer can fix the problem within the one-hour visit, with no extra parts required and no extra charge beyond the initial &pound;89.&nbsp;</p>

70% of boiler problems, fixed for just £89

What is the BOXT Workmanship Guarantee?

Explore all of the must-know information relating to boiler flue position regulations, including where your flue can be placed and whether it can be moved.

<p>Whether you&rsquo;re a Gas Safe registered engineer or a homeowner researching boiler installations in preparation for buying a new central heating system, it&rsquo;s important to understand the rules in place to ensure your safety.&nbsp;</p>
<p>One of the most important parts of any gas boiler is the boiler flue. This is responsible for expelling water vapour, as well as any harmful gases, making it critical for ensuring the health and well-being of everyone living in the home.</p>
<p>To guarantee the proper installation of boilers, boiler flue regulations were introduced to help ensure waste gases are expelled safely.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Here, we delve into the boiler flue position regulations, explaining the key points of the regulations, including the rules around flue positioning and where you can move your flue pipe to.&nbsp;</p>
<h2>What is a boiler flue?</h2>
<p>A boiler flue essentially serves as an exhaust or chimney for gas boilers - safely removing all of the waste gases created during the combustion process. Harmful gases like carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, and nitrogen oxides are all expelled from the boiler through the flue, keeping the air inside our homes clean and safe.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Boiler flues are an essential part of the following types of boilers:</p>
<ul>
<li>Gas boilers, including combi, standard and system boilers</li>
<li>Back boiler units</li>
<li>Oil boilers</li>
<li>Biomass boilers</li>
<li>Wood-burning boilers and stoves</li>
</ul>
<h3>Where is a boiler flue usually located?</h3>
<p>Typically made from metal or plastic, the flue is directly connected to the combustion chamber of the boiler - running vertically or horizontally out of your home.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The precise location of your boiler flue will depend on where your boiler is positioned, but it can typically be found coming out of one of three locations, which we explore below.</p>
<h4>External wall</h4>
<p>A horizontal flue, coming out of an external wall, is most commonly used in the UK as it is usually the most direct route from the boiler to the outside.</p>
<p><img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/KcuiwL6WRVSXt6Cj3tvn" alt="diagram of a house showing the boiler flue placement" width="560" height="454" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"></p>
<h4>Roof</h4>
<p>A vertical flue is typically used when a horizontal flue can&rsquo;t be due to Gas Safe regulations.</p>
<p><img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/F6vccAWOSoqKgKC3dV3g" alt="undefined" width="560" height="455" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"></p>
<h4>Brick chimney</h4>
<p>If your boiler is a fire and back boiler unit, the flue normally runs inside the brick chimney that the boiler is fitted within directly to the outside.</p>
<h2>Why is a boiler flue important?&nbsp;</h2>
<p>The boiler flue is an important component of boilers for these reasons:&nbsp;</p>
<h3>1. Keeping you safe</h3>
<p>The main role of the boiler flue is to expel potentially harmful gases and prevent their build-up - essentially, keeping you and your family safe from things like <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/guides/carbon-monoxide-testing" rel="follow">carbon monoxide</a> poisoning.&nbsp;</p>
<h3>2. Ensuring compliance</h3>
<p>To help keep you safe, there are several boiler regulations in place relating to new and existing boiler flues, flue length, location, flue support and materials. &nbsp;</p>
<h3>3. Benefitting performance&nbsp;</h3>
<p>A properly installed and maintained boiler flue will benefit the overall efficiency and performance of your boiler system. By safely venting waste gases and condensation, the flue reduces the risk of damage to your boiler.&nbsp;</p>
<h3>4. Improving air quality</h3>
<p>A boiler flue&rsquo;s main purpose is to expel waste gas and maintain air quality in your home. By removing water vapour, carbon dioxide, and more, the boiler flue reduces the risk of health complications like respiratory issues.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Ensuring your boiler flue is in good working condition is of the utmost importance to your safety and your boiler&rsquo;s efficiency - making it vital you book an annual <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/boiler-servicing" rel="follow">boiler service</a> with a Gas Safe registered engineer.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Boiler flue regulations - key points&nbsp;</h2>
<p>In terms of fitting a new boiler flue, this work must always be completed by a Gas Safe registered engineer who will be fully trained on how to ensure a safe installation.&nbsp;</p>
<p>As no two properties are identical, the installation requirements will be unique to your home, with factors such as the location of your boiler and the proximity of nearby houses and public spaces all having a part to play in deciding how your flue needs to be installed.</p>
<p>Similarly, the specific rules and regulations relating to flue sizes and clearances depend on the manufacturer and model of boiler you have installed. Provided they are Gas Safe registered, the engineer undertaking the work will be aware of these requirements before they start.&nbsp;</p>
<h3>Flue support regulations</h3>
<p>As well as the rules regarding placement, there are other boiler flue regulations too, including the support regulations.&nbsp;</p>
<p>This stipulates that boiler flues must be adequately supported in the correct manner at certain intervals depending on the orientation, as well as before and after every change of direction to ensure they do not dip. Dipping within the flue could create condensation lying within it, which can impact your boiler&rsquo;s performance or even corrode the flue.&nbsp;</p>
<p>With some manufacturers, screws should be used to secure the flue and make sure it&rsquo;s fully supported. The flue support will be reviewed by a Gas Safe registered engineer as part of your boiler&rsquo;s service, so don&rsquo;t worry about fittings becoming loose over time.&nbsp;</p>
<h3>Where can you move your boiler flue?</h3>
<p>As long as your boiler flue complies with the positioning regulations above, a Gas Safe registered engineer can move it to a suitable location for you. If you currently have a horizontal flue and want to change it to a vertical flue, you should cover the flue to ensure nothing can fall into the pipe, like rain, snow or leaves.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Any work you want to do to your flue, including moving it, must comply with the relevant boiler flue regulations. To ensure that the work is carried out properly and safely, it should always be carried out by a Gas Safe registered engineer.&nbsp;</p>
<h2>More advice from BOXT &nbsp;</h2>
<p>Buying a <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/boiler-replacement" rel="follow">new boiler</a> or understanding how to <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/boiler-repair" rel="follow">maintain your current boiler</a> can be confusing, but the importance of getting it right cannot be overstated.&nbsp;</p>
<p>To help you navigate everything from choosing the right type of boiler for your home to making sure it&rsquo;s working safely and efficiently once installed, our central heating experts are on hand to provide tailored advice. Head over to our boiler guides, where you&rsquo;ll find tips and guidance on topics like <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/guides/how-much-does-it-cost-to-install-central-heating" rel="follow">how much it costs to install central heating</a>, <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/guides/clearing-an-airlock-from-your-central-heating-system" rel="follow">how to clear an airlock</a> from your central heating system, <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/guides/why-is-my-radiator-whistling" rel="follow">why your radiator is whistling and much more</a>.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Discover <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/guides?category=boilers" rel="follow">BOXT&rsquo;s boiler guides</a>.</p>

Boiler flue position regulations

Wondering what an EPC is and how to get one for your home? Explore this information and more in this comprehensive guide to energy performance certificates.


<p>If you're looking to buy, sell or rent a property, one thing you need to know about is energy performance certificates (EPC).</p>
<p>As well as offering an insight into how well insulated a home is, these certificates can help us understand how much our energy bills will cost and whether additional work is needed to make the house warmer and more energy efficient.</p>
<p>Here, we take a comprehensive look at EPCs, including what the ratings mean, how much they cost, what they say about your property, and more. First, let's explore what an energy performance certificate is.</p>
<h2>What is an energy performance certificate (EPC)?</h2>
<p>An EPC tells you how energy efficient a building is, rating it from G (inefficient) to A (very efficient). The certificate tells you how much it may cost to heat your home, its carbon emissions and recommends improvements you can make to increase the rating.&nbsp;</p>
<p>These improvements could be as straightforward as switching to low-energy light bulbs to larger jobs, like installing cavity wall insulation.</p>
<p>EPC ratings assess various aspects of a property, and then a score between 1 and 100 is given. The score banding is:</p>
<ul>
<li>A-rating: 92-100 points</li>
<li>B-rating: 81-91 points</li>
<li>C-rating: 69-80 points</li>
<li>D-rating: 55-68 points</li>
<li>E-rating: 39-54 points</li>
<li>F-rating: 21-38 points</li>
<li>G-rating 1-20 points</li>
</ul>
<h3>How can you get an EPC, and who needs one?</h3>
<p>You must find an accredited professional to assess your property and produce the energy report to get an EPC.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.gov.uk/get-new-energy-certificate">Find an energy assessor in England, Wales and Northern Ireland</a>.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.scottishepcregister.org.uk/">Find an energy assessor in Scotland</a>.</p>
<h4>Residential properties</h4>
<p>In residential properties, an EPC is needed whenever a property is built, sold or rented, and the certificate must be ordered before the property goes to market. You can be fined if you don't get an EPC when you need one.</p>
<h4>Commercial properties</h4>
<p>If you own commercial properties, you must have an EPC if:</p>
<ul>
<li>You want to rent out or sell the premises</li>
<li>A building under construction is finished</li>
<li>There are changes to the number of parts used for separate occupations, including providing or extending fixed heating, air conditioning or mechanical ventilation systems</li>
</ul>
<p>You must also display an EPC by fixing it to your commercial building if all of the following apply:</p>
<ul>
<li>The total useful floor area is over 500 square metres</li>
<li>The public frequently visits the building</li>
<li>An EPC has already been produced for the building's sale, rental or construction</li>
</ul>
<p>You can be fined between &pound;500 and &pound;5,000 if you do not make an EPC available to prospective buyers or tenants.</p>
<h4>Are any buildings exempt from having EPCs?</h4>
<p>The following residential buildings do not need an EPC:</p>
<ul>
<li>Places of worship</li>
<li>Temporary buildings that will be used for less than two years</li>
<li>Standalone buildings, like sheds and outhouses, with a total functional floor space of less than 50 square metres</li>
<li>Industrial sites, workshops and non-residential agricultural buildings that do not use a lot of energy</li>
<li>Some buildings that are due to be demolished</li>
<li>Holiday accommodation that's rented out for less than four months a year or is let under a licence to occupy</li>
<li>Listed buildings - seek advice from your council or local authority conservation officer if the work would alter the building's character</li>
<li>Residential buildings intended to be used less than four months a year</li>
</ul>
<p>In terms of commercial properties, you do not need an EPC if you can demonstrate that the building is:</p>
<ul>
<li>Listed or officially protected, and the minimum energy performance requirements would unacceptably alter the premises.</li>
<li>A temporary building that will only be used for two years or less.</li>
<li>Used as a place of worship or for other religious activities.</li>
<li>An industrial site, workshop or non-residential agricultural building that uses little energy.</li>
<li>A detached building with a total floor space of under 50 square metres.</li>
<li>Due to be demolished by the seller or landlord, and they have all the relevant planning and conservation consents.</li>
</ul>
<h3>How much are EPC certificates?</h3>
<p>The cost of having your house assessed and receiving an EPC varies from &pound;35 to &pound;120. The specific price will depend on several factors, like the size of the property, its location, and who will be conducting the assessment.</p>
<p>Similarly, an EPC for a commercial property can cost upwards of &pound;95. Again, the cost will vary based on details like the floor space of the premises.</p>
<p>Whether you're after a commercial or residential EPC, we recommend shopping around for the best deal.</p>
<h2>What do EPC inspections look at?</h2>
<p>Most EPC inspections take around an hour, and during this time, accredited domestic energy assessors will consider lots of factors before deciding on an energy rating. These include:</p>
<ul>
<li>The overall size of the property</li>
<li>The lighting used and how many low-energy light bulbs are fitted in your home</li>
<li>The type and amount of insulation used throughout the building</li>
<li>The heating systems located in the property, including fireplaces</li>
<li>The type of windows used throughout the house, e.g. single or double glazing</li>
</ul>
<h3>What does an EPC certificate say about your property?</h3>
<p>As well as a score out of 100, the EPC will feature recommendations to improve the home's energy efficiency rating and a potential rating that could be achieved if the assessor's advice is acted upon.</p>
<p>This approach informs the current and prospective property owners of what they can do to increase the home's energy performance.</p>
<h3>What are the minimum energy efficiency standards?</h3>
<p>The minimum energy efficiency standard was introduced on 1 April 2018. It was implemented to encourage landlords to raise low energy efficiency levels in their properties.</p>
<p>These energy efficiency requirements stipulate that privately rented properties must be at least E-rated to be rented out (this is changing to a minimum of C-rated from 2025). To bring the property up to this level, a landlord can spend &pound;3,500, but if the property cannot be improved without spending more than this, they may be able to apply for an exemption.</p>
<h3>Can you fail an EPC inspection?</h3>
<p>A property cannot 'fail' an EPC assessment but can be awarded a G rating, which is the lowest possible. This score highlights that a property is extremely inefficient, and serious work needs to be done to achieve an E-rating under the minimum energy efficiency standards.</p>
<h2>What is the EPC register?</h2>
<p>When you receive an EPC rating, it will be valid for ten years. These energy reports are kept on the EPC register, allowing homeowners to find someone who produces energy reports and organises a review of their home.</p>
<h3>Can you opt out of the EPC register?</h3>
<p>Yes, you can! If you don't want your property's Energy Performance Certificate to be accessible to other people through the EPC register, you can opt out by contacting the Department for Levelling Up, Housing &amp; Communities by email at <a href="https://www.gov.uk/get-new-energy-certificate">dluhc.digital-services@levellingup.gov.uk</a> or <a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/energy-performance-certificates-opt-out-of-public-disclosure">find more information here</a>.</p>
<h2>What are the benefits of improving your home's EPC rating?</h2>
<p>Whether you want to sell your home or you've just moved in, improving your home's EPC rating in line with the recommendations left by the assessor can have several benefits.</p>
<p>Firstly, reducing your home's energy consumption, i.e., installing loft insulation and retaining heat, can help you save money on your energy bills as you'll be less reliant on your central heating.</p>
<p>If you're considering selling your home, upgrading your home's rating can increase your property's value and make it more attractive to potential buyers. In fact, a 2013 report by the <a href="https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/207196/20130613_-_Hedonic_Pricing_study_-_DECC_template__2_.pdf">Department of Energy and Climate Change</a> into the effect of EPC ratings found those in the A or B bracket sold for at least 14% more than their counterparts.</p>
<p>As well as helping your wallet, improving your home's EPC rating will reduce your carbon footprint, which benefits the planet, too.</p>
<h2>How can you improve your home's EPC rating?</h2>
<p>There are many ways to improve your EPC rating, and you'll be pleased to hear that you won't have to spend thousands making upgrades. <a href="https://energysavingtrust.org.uk/tips-to-improve-the-epc-rating-of-your-home/">According to the Energy Saving Trust</a>, switching to LED light bulbs, for example, may cost &pound;180 but could save you up to &pound;60 per year. Likewise, investing in a hot water cylinder jacket costs around &pound;20 but could save you around &pound;50 every year.</p>
<p>Other common EPC recommendations also include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Installing smart controls to manage your central heating system</li>
<li>Replacing older heating systems with <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/boiler-replacement" rel="follow">new boilers</a></li>
<li>Upgrading single-glazed windows to double glazing</li>
<li>Installing or replacing loft insulation</li>
<li>Insulating floors and walls</li>
<li>Installing <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/solar">solar panels</a></li>
</ul>
<p>Check out our guide to explore more ways to improve your home&rsquo;s EPC rating.</p>
<p></p>

Get personalised quotes for A-rated replacement boilers

What is an EPC? Everything you need to know

Explore how to prepare your home for a boiler replacement in this BOXT guide, including four key things you should do before the engineer arrives.

<p>Installing a <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/boiler-replacement" rel="follow">new boiler</a> in your home can sometimes be a long and disruptive process, especially if it&rsquo;s being installed in a different location than your old boiler.</p>
<p>But, to minimise installation times and maximise efficiency, there are things you can do to help the Gas Safe registered engineer who'll be carrying out the work.</p>
<p>In this guide, we explore four tips to help you prepare for your <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/boiler-replacement" rel="follow">boiler replacement</a> and ensure the installation process is as smooth and straightforward as possible. But first, let's explore why preparing your home for its new heating system is a good idea.</p>
<h2>How to prepare for boiler installation</h2>
<p>Before the Gas Safe engineer fits your new boiler, complete the following tasks to ensure the <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/boiler-installation" rel="follow">boiler installation</a> process goes as smoothly as possible.</p>
<h3>1. Clear the area and a pathway to your boiler</h3>
<p>Whether you&rsquo;re having your new boiler installed in the same place as your old one or opting to have it moved to a new location, you need to make sure the area around your boiler is clear. You should also ensure the existing system, radiators, water stop tap, and gas meter are accessible and that the new boiler location is clean, too, if it&rsquo;s being relocated. Additionally, if the new boiler is to be installed in the loft, the floor in the loft would need to be boarded and also has a fixed light and a fixed loft ladder.</p>
<p>Once you've cleaned around where the boiler will be installed, you must ensure a pathway from there to the front or back door. The engineer will likely be nipping in and out to their van to fetch various tools, not to mention carrying the new boiler into your home. Guaranteeing ease of access reduces installation time and makes the process much easier and safer.</p>
<h3>2. Identify any areas of concern</h3>
<p>Before installing the boiler, you should identify additional concerns in your heating system. This could include rusty pipework, problematic radiators or inconsistent pressure levels. Basically, anything you'd like the engineer to look at, make them aware of it before they get to work installing your <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/boiler-replacement" rel="follow">replacement boiler</a>.</p>
<p>Flagging any issues will mean the engineer can advise or could even fix them while they install your boiler or organise a time to come back and resolve the issue.</p>

Find out more about common boiler problems and how to identify them.

Common boiler problems

<h3>3. Keep little ones out of the way</h3>
<p>As well as clearing space for your boiler to be installed, you need to make sure children and pets are kept out of the way. This is more of a health and safety concern as opposed to something that will increase productivity, but it may help the engineer concentrate on their work.</p>
<p>Pets, in particular, can be a hazard, so it's important you keep them away from the work area and ensure the engineer has enough space to work.</p>
<h3>4. Identify your home&rsquo;s fuse box or consumer unit</h3>
<p>Whether you&rsquo;re getting a system, standard or combi boiler installed, every boiler needs to be connected to your home&rsquo;s electricity supply. Contrary to popular belief, even gas and oil boilers rely on electricity to ignite, so you&rsquo;ll need to locate the boiler's electrical isolation point (fused spur) and potentially your property&rsquo;s fuse box before your engineer arrives.&nbsp;</p>
<p>If possible, make it easy for your engineer to access the boiler&rsquo;s fused spur or fuse box by clearing a safe pathway to the switch or fuse box then show them the specific switch that controls your boiler. Making sure the engineer only flips the necessary fuse will prevent other areas and appliances in your home from ending up without power.</p>

Learn how and why gas boilers need electricity to heat our homes in our expert's guide.

Do gas boilers use electricity?

<h2>What is the new boiler installation process?</h2>
<p>Once you've cleared the area where the boiler will be installed, found the fuse and any areas for concern, and got your pets or kids out of harm's way, the installation can begin. But what happens when the engineer arrives at your home with a new boiler? Here's what happens in seven simple steps:</p>
<p><strong>1. The boiler and/or system electricity supply needs switching off</strong>: Isolating the electrics before the installation ensures safe working, and the electricity supply may require turning off at different times during the installation to install new controls or even a new fused spur.</p>
<p><strong>2. The gas will need isolating and testing for leaks before the installation</strong>: Testing for gas leaks before installation is important to identify any unsafe situations with the supply and, where practical, resolve and/or repair.</p>
<p><strong>3. The system is drained and the old boiler removed</strong>: The existing system will be firstly drained of all water, and the old boiler will then be removed. Removing smaller appliances, like combi boilers, can be relatively straightforward, but larger heating systems, e.g. those with water storage tanks/cylinders, will take longer.</p>
<p><strong>4. The area is checked and prepared</strong>: During this process, the engineer will assess the boiler's flue system to ensure it complies with the manufacturer's instructions and building regulations or what needs to be done to ensure the new flue complies.</p>
<p><strong>5. The heating system is flushed and cleaned</strong>: Following British standards,&nbsp;engineers should&nbsp;<a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/guides/power-flush" rel="follow">flush</a> your central heating system each time a new boiler is installed.</p>
<p><strong>6. The pipework is upgraded</strong>: If you want your boiler to be moved or the pipework looks worse for wear, the engineer will upgrade some or all of the pipes, including the gas pipework, where necessary.</p>
<p><strong>7. The new boiler is installed, and accessories are fitted</strong>: Straightforward installations can be completed within a day, but more complicated work can be significantly longer. Once the boiler is installed, the engineer can work on fitting accessories, like <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/guides/magnetic-boiler-filters" rel="follow">system filters</a>, condensate pumps and additional required flue lengths.</p>
<p><strong>8. Checks are carried out</strong>: The boiler will be tested to ensure it works properly and should be commissioned in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.</p>
<p><strong>9. The boiler is registered</strong>: Once installed, the engineer will register your new boiler with Gas Safe, the relevant local authorities, and the boiler manufacturer to validate the appliance's warranty. At BOXT, we do this for you!</p>
<p>Check out our blog for a more detailed look at <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/guides/what-happens-when-a-new-boiler-is-fitted" rel="follow">what happens when a new boiler is fitted</a>, including whether your water and gas supply will need to be turned off.</p>
<h3>What is the average installation time for a new boiler?</h3>
<p>The time it takes to install a boiler depends on the size and scale of the installation, but it's typically between one and two days. Explore the factors that can prolong the process in our '<a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/guides/how-long-does-it-take-to-fit-a-new-boiler" rel="follow">How long does it take to fit a new boiler?</a>' guide.</p>
<h3>Is it better to repair your current boiler or replace it?</h3>
<p>Deciding whether to replace or repair your boiler is a tricky decision; on the one hand, the short-term cost of <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/boiler-repair" rel="follow">repairing your boiler</a> may be cheaper than a new model; on the other hand, a new appliance offers long-term peace of mind.</p>
<p>To help you make an informed decision, we explore the pros and cons of each side in our '<a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/guides/boiler-repair" rel="follow">New boiler vs boiler repair</a>' blog.</p>
<h2><strong>Get your next boiler from BOXT</strong></h2>
<p>Still on the search for your next appliance? Take a look at <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/guides/how-to-choose-your-perfect-boiler">how to choose your perfect boiler</a> for tips on making the right purchase.</p>
<p>Ready to get your new boiler? With BOXT, you could have a new appliance installed as early as tomorrow. Use our <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/find-a-boiler/">Find a Boiler</a> tool to get started and look forward to a more affordable, more comfortable home.</p>

Get fixed-price quotes for A-rated replacement boilers from BOXT

How to prepare your home for a boiler replacement

a BOXT engineer installing a new boiler and filter

Save money on your energy bills with a new boiler, and other tips to keep your bills down and improve your energy efficiency. 

<p>Heating and hot water account for over half of your annual spend on energy bills, and with current energy prices and the cost of living crisis, we&rsquo;re all looking for ways we can be more energy efficient in our homes.</p>
<h2>Cut your bills with a new boiler</h2>
<p>Depending on the efficiency rating of your current&nbsp;<a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers">boiler</a> and the type of home you live in, you could save over &pound;500 a year on your energy bills simply by upgrading to a <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/boiler-replacement" rel="follow">new A rated boiler</a> &ndash; without having to change the way you use it. Have a look at the graphs below to see what you could save based on your circumstances*.</p>
<h3>Detached house</h3>
<p>If you live in a detached house you could save up to &pound;540 a year on your energy bill if you're upgrading from a G-rated to an A-rated boiler &ndash; over a fifth of the cost of the average new boiler installation. And with the added energy-saving technology in the Google Nest Learning Thermostat, which comes in our tech bundle, you could <strong>save over &pound;700 per year by upgrading</strong>!</p>
<p><img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/7PXARXHcSjKOtBAoMCNh" alt="undefined"></p>
<h3>Semi-detached house</h3>
<p>Upgrading your boiler in a semi-detached house could save you &pound;342 annually, a massive 20% of the <a rel="follow" href="https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/publications/new-energy-price-cap-level-starts-today">average UK energy bill</a> which comes in at &pound;1,690 a year. Add to that the 10% saving from using a Google Nest Learning Thermostat, and you could save over &pound;460 a year on your energy bills!&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
<p><img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/nQY3LcHcSA7amvcbQ3td" alt="undefined"></p>
<h3>Bungalow</h3>
<p>If you live in a detached bungalow, you could save up to &pound;299 a year on your energy bill simply by upgrading your boiler to a new A-rated one, and if you add Google Nest Learning Thermostat to your package, you could save an additional 10% on your energy bills, taking the total savings to over &pound;400 per year!</p>
<p><img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/3MH5u4SMRBaKPpUVnu9u" alt="undefined"></p>
<h3>Flat</h3>
<p>Upgrading your boiler in a flat could save you up to &pound;125 a year on your energy bills &ndash; more than the average monthly energy bill for property this size! Plus, with the added energy-saving technology in the Google Nest Learning Thermostat, your annual energy savings could be up to &pound;175 per year.</p>
<p><img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/yRK6nI1ST22Zvf7VUqjX" alt="undefined"></p>
<h3>Mid-terrace house</h3>
<p>In a mid-terrace house you could see annual savings of up to &pound;280 simply by upgrading to a boiler with an A efficiency rating. Plus, if you add a Google Nest Learning Thermostat, you could save an extra 10% per year on your energy bills, taking the total saved to &pound;380!</p>
<p><img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/coZs3ZCKQDWndqErMzve" alt="undefined"></p>
<p><sup>*savings shown based on data from&nbsp;Ofgem for <a href="https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/information-consumers/energy-advice-households/average-gas-and-electricity-use-explained" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">typical energy consumption</a> and <a href="https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/energy-price-cap" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">energy unit rates</a>, and using data from</sup><sup>&nbsp;</sup><sup><a href="https://support.google.com/googlenest/answer/9254386?hl=en-GB" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Google</a></sup><sup>&nbsp;</sup><sup>on energy saving using a Nest Learning Thermostat</sup></p>
<p>While the cost of a new boiler may seem daunting, rising energy prices mean the savings you make on your energy bill will go a long way to offsetting this and you&rsquo;ll make your money back in energy savings in less time than you might think&hellip;</p>
<p>According to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.which.co.uk/reviews/boilers/article/buying-a-new-boiler/boiler-prices-how-much-does-a-new-boiler-cost" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Which</a>, the average cost of a new gas combi boiler including installation is &pound;2,597 &ndash; so if you live in a detached property and upgrade from a boiler with a grade G efficiency rating, you could have saved back the cost of your new A rated boiler in just over 4 years!</p>
<p>Even better, here at BOXT we offer a range of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/finance" rel="follow">finance options</a>** to help spread the cost of your new boiler, as well as a <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/the-boxt-price-promise">price promise</a>&nbsp;that if you find a like-for-like offer that&rsquo;s cheaper than we&rsquo;ve quoted you, we&rsquo;ll either beat the price or give you a &pound;50 Amazon voucher &ndash; it&rsquo;s win-win!</p>

See how much you could save with a new boiler

Cut your energy bills by up to £60/month with a new boiler & smart thermostat

<h2>Stay on top of the temperature in your home&nbsp;</h2>
<h3>Google Nest Learning Thermostat</h3>
<p>Using smart technology like the Google Nest Learning Thermostat can help with ensuring you aren't wasting any energy on heating your home, as you can set schedules around your usual routine and lifestyle to make sure your heating is only on when someone will be at home. Or, if you're not sure what the best times are to schedule the Nest Learning Thermostat can even learn from your routine and make changes to ensure you're being as energy efficient as possible. Data from Google suggests that you can save up to 10% annually on your energy bills by using a Nest Learning Thermostat! If you don't have a smart thermostat, still make sure you make full use of the thermostat controls to programme your boiler to only come on when you need it.&nbsp;</p>
<h3>Turn the temperature down</h3>
<p>When you do have your heating on, try turning the temperature&nbsp;<a rel="follow" href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/one-degree">one degree</a>&nbsp;lower than you usually would. You could saving over &pound;100 a year on your energy bill without feeling much of a difference, if any! You can also use&nbsp;<a rel="follow" href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/guides/radiator-valves">Thermostatic Radiator Valves</a>&nbsp;(TRVs) to control the temperature in each individual room. Experts recommend some rooms, such as the bedroom, are kept slightly cooler than others, and so by setting different temperatures throughout the home you can make sure there's no energy being wasting keeping rooms warmer than they need to be. Find out more about the ideal temperatures in your home with our&nbsp;<a rel="follow" href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/guides/optimal-boiler-calendar">Optimal Boiler Calendar</a>.&nbsp;</p>
<h3>Check the flow temperature</h3>
<p>You can also control the temperature of the water that's supplied to your radiators and hot water taps directly from the boiler and hot water cylinder, if you have one. If these are currently set pretty high, turning down the flow temperatures can help you make savings on your energy bills without feeling a difference to your comfort levels around the house! If you have a combi boiler, it's important that you don't set the temperature any lower than 55&deg;C, and if you have a system or standard boiler with a separate hot water cylinder then the minimum temperature is 60&deg;C. Any lower than these and there is a risk of bacteria forming which can be hazardous to yours and your family's health.</p>
<h2>How else can you reduce your energy usage?</h2>
<h3>Service your boiler and make savings</h3>
<p>Making sure you get a&nbsp;<a rel="follow" href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/boiler-service">regular boiler service</a> will ensure that it continues to run as efficiently as possible as well as helping to prolong the lifespan of your boiler, so you keep your energy bills low and don't have to think about paying for a new boiler for even longer. With our&nbsp;<a rel="follow" href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/home-cover">Service plan</a> you can spread the cost of your service and we'll arrange it for you, so once you've had your new boiler installed you can sit back and relax safe in the knowledge we've got you covered.&nbsp;</p>
<h3>Get a system flush and install a filter</h3>
<p>Having a&nbsp;<a rel="follow" href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/guides/magnetic-boiler-filters">magnetic filter</a>&nbsp;installed, if you don't have one already, will help keep your system clean and running efficiently as possible, as well as getting a&nbsp;<a rel="follow" href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/guides/power-flush">system flush</a>&nbsp;to give your system a really good deep clean. With BOXT when you get a&nbsp;<a rel="follow" href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/boiler-replacement">new boiler</a>&nbsp;we perform a chemical system flush and install a filter as standard.&nbsp;</p>
<h3>Benefit from a smart meter</h3>
<p>Installing a smart meter can help you better understand your energy usage - so you know when you're using the most energy, and which appliances are the biggest culprits of driving up your energy bill. Once you know this, you can look at ways you can makes small day-to-day changes to use less energy and keep your bills down.</p>
<h3>Top up the&nbsp;insulation</h3>
<p>Insulating&nbsp;elements of your heating system such as&nbsp;<a rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://energysavingtrust.org.uk/advice/insulating-tanks-pipes-and-radiators/" data-sk="tooltip_parent" delay="150" data-stringify-link="https://energysavingtrust.org.uk/advice/insulating-tanks-pipes-and-radiators/" target="_blank">water tank, pipes and radiators</a> is a quick and easy way to save money on your bills, as well as ensuring your roof, wall and floor insulation are up to scratch. Plus, with the Government charging <a rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/changes-to-the-vat-treatment-of-the-installation-of-energy-saving-materials-in-in-great-britain" data-sk="tooltip_parent" delay="150" data-stringify-link="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/changes-to-the-vat-treatment-of-the-installation-of-energy-saving-materials-in-in-great-britain" target="_blank">0%&nbsp;VAT&nbsp;on energy saving materials</a> like insulation until 2027, as well as the <a href="https://www.gov.uk/apply-great-british-insulation-scheme" rel="follow noopener" target="_blank">Great British Insulation Scheme</a> offering financial support, now is a great time to invest.</p>

Get a quote for your new boiler with next-day installation available

<p><sup>**finance options are subject to status, T&amp;Cs apply.</sup></p>

How much energy can you save with a new boiler?

When a new boiler is installed, by law, it must be commissioned. Here, we explore the commissioning process in this comprehensive guide.

<p>Boiler commissioning is an essential phase in the <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/boiler-installation" rel="follow">boiler installation</a> process that ensures the system is effective and safe.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Before use, the boiler must pass a series of checks, tests, and adjustments to meet all performance and safety criteria, which is known as boiler commissioning.</p>
<p>This comprehensive guide will lead you through the main procedures and concerns involved in boiler commissioning.</p>
<h2>What is boiler commissioning?</h2>
<p>When installing a <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/boiler-replacement" rel="follow">new boiler</a>, it must undergo a crucial phase known as commissioning. Boiler commissioning is essential to ensure your new boiler is installed and configured correctly, guaranteeing you get the most out of your heating and hot water products. It also ensures that precautions are in place to avoid <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/guides/boiler-not-working" rel="follow">common boiler issues</a> that could lead to the breakdown of your boiler.</p>
<p>Since April 2018, all boilers installed in the UK must achieve at least 92% energy ErP efficiency and have working timers and temperature controls. This legislation aims to improve the energy efficiency of UK homes.</p>

<h2>Who carries out boiler commissioning?</h2>
<p>A Gas Safe registered engineer should<strong> always</strong> carry out boiler commissioning and boiler services.&nbsp;</p>
<p>During commissioning, engineers will carry out all the required tests, checking the boiler and system and then make any necessary adjustments.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Moreover, they will ensure the boiler complies with all necessary regulatory requirements and manufacturer specifications.<br>It is important to note that you should always appoint a Gas Safe registered engineer when you require any boiler-related maintenance.</p>

<h2>What is the boiler commissioning procedure?</h2>
<p>The boiler commissioning procedure typically consists of several stages to ensure it is correctly installed, examined, and tested before turning it on. While the particular technique will differ depending on the kind and size of the boiler, as well as manufacturer standards - these are the general steps:</p>
<h3>Pre-commissioning checks</h3>
<p>Before starting the commissioning process, the installer or technician should verify that the boiler installation meets all applicable regulations, standards, and manufacturer requirements. This includes checking the integrity of the boiler's components, ensuring proper fuel supply and ventilation, and verifying that all safety devices are in place.</p>
<p>We will touch on the <a href="#h_13076817230161701354147218" rel="follow">boiler commissioning checklist</a> a bit later on, but for now, let's look at the further steps in the procedure.</p>
<h3>Initial inspection</h3>
<p>It is vital to thoroughly inspect the boiler to ensure it is free from any damage during transportation or installation. The engineer will check for leaks, loose connections, and potential issues affecting its operation.</p>
<h3>Mechanical completion</h3>
<p>All mechanical components, such as pumps, fans, valves, and controls, need to be installed correctly and properly connected. The engineer will also inspect the integrity of the system piping, venting of the system, and the route of the boiler flue and gas pipe.</p>
<h3>Electrical connections</h3>
<p>The power supply, control wiring, safety interlocks and sensors are all inspected during the boiler commissioning process. Wiring the electrical components correctly and securing the connections is extremely important when installing equipment.&nbsp;</p>
<h3>Water and fuel system check</h3>
<p>The engineer will ensure the system and pipework is water tight and, if it is a sealed system, they will check that it is pressurised to the correct pressure with all air bled from the system. The gas supply will also be tested for tightness making sure there are no leaks.&nbsp;</p>
<h3>Safety checks</h3>
<p>All the boiler safety devices will be checked during this phase of commissioning including flame supervision devices, low water pressure sensors etc. This step of the process is of paramount importance to confirm safe operation of your boiler and system.</p>
<h3>Functional testing</h3>
<p>The Gas Safe engineer conducts a series of functional tests to verify the proper operation of the boiler. This includes testing the ignition system, burner operation, gas working and standing pressure as well as other specific boiler features.</p>
<h3>Performance testing</h3>
<p>The Gas Safe engineer will also carry out performance tests, sometimes known as flue gas analysis to confirm the boiler is burning the gas correctly and safely ensuring its efficiency, combustion quality, and emissions. At this point, the engineer will also ensure the boiler is burning the correct amount of gas.&nbsp;</p>
<h3>Documentation</h3>
<p>Finally, a commissioning report is prepared to document the entire process, including any adjustments, test results, and safety checks. The report serves as a record of the commissioning procedure and could be required to ensure compliance.</p>
<h2>Boiler commissioning checklist</h2>
<p>So, now you know the process, let's look at the boiler commissioning checklist. These are all the steps the engineer must take before commissioning the boiler:</p>
<h3>1. Cleanse the system</h3>
<p>After installing the heating system, cleaning it according to the manufacturer's instructions is crucial. This involves flushing the &nbsp;system to prevent black magnetite (this is commonly known as sludge - a substance of dissolved and rusted metal from your central heating system's pipework) from flowing through your new boiler's heat exchanger.</p>
<p>Learn more about the <a href="https://www.boxt.co.uk/boilers/guides/power-flush" rel="follow">different types of boiler flushes</a> in our full guide.</p>
<h3>2. Add a corrosion inhibitor and refill</h3>
<p>After cleaning the system, add the corrosion inhibitor. This protects radiators, prevents hydrogen gas formation, increases boiler efficiency, and reduces the risk of corrosion and future repairs being required. We recommend installing a corrosion inhibitor to protect your boiler's long-term durability and help you to save money on repairs.</p>
<h3>3. Test the gas flue analyser</h3>
<p>Perform a flue gas analyser test to measure flue gases. It's mandatory to fill out the benchmark book that accompanies your new boiler installation and include all analyser readings. While boilers come factory set, occasional adjustments may be necessary. Your engineer will ensure the boiler runs correctly by taking readings and adjusting as needed.</p>
<h3>4. Take a gas reading to check the boiler&rsquo;s gas rate tolerance</h3>
<p>A Gas Safe Engineer may have connected the boiler to a new pipe. If this is the case, they must perform a gas reading to ensure everything fits correctly. This step also helps confirm that the pipe is not blocked and ensures smooth operation.</p>
<h3>5. Adjust the boiler output</h3>
<p>Set the boiler output according to the size of your house and the number of radiators. This ensures energy-efficient operation and proper heating for all radiators, avoiding excessive running time and unnecessary expenses.</p>
<h3>6. Gas tightness test</h3>
<p>Conduct a gas tightness test to check the gas pressure in the pipework from the meter to the boiler. This verifies that the pipes can hold the correct pressure and prevents leaks, reducing the need for future repairs.</p>
<h3>7. Register the boilers guarantee</h3>
<p>Let your engineer handle the guarantee registration, as they have the necessary apps. Once registered, they should explain the guarantee to you. After completing the boiler commissioning checklist and ensuring everything works correctly, the engineer will explain how your new boiler and its controls operate.&nbsp;</p>
<p>They will also review warranty details and provide information about regular boiler servicing and maintenance requirements.</p>

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