Which is the Best Condensing Boiler? [And Prices]

Are you looking for the best condensing boiler for your home?

When you first begin researching new boiler choices, you’ll probably have noticed that nowadays, it’s all about condensing boilers, as they’re so much more energy efficient than previous, old-fashioned Standard combustion models.

However, knowing exactly what to look for can become somewhat confusing, and as an experienced heating engineer, I’ve found many of my customers have come to me asking for a condensing boiler rather than a system, combi or regular boiler.

I’m going to explain more about condensing boilers and prices below, as well as some of the best brands available today.

What is a condensing boiler

With old, inefficient combustion boilers, the flue gases went into the atmosphere at around 110 degrees Celsius, with a lot of energy being lost through the combustion process. This meant there was a lot more waste, and so a more sustainable alternative was called for; cue the modern condensing boiler.

The good news is that all modern units are condensing boilers; they are named ‘condensing boilers’ simply because the boiler produces condensate. This happens as the flue gasses exit at a lower temperature and the latent heat is used to provide more energy.

These newer models are much more energy efficient for domestic use, however, many people get mixed up between a combi boiler and a condensing boiler.

As we know, there are three types of boilers; regular, system and combi. All of these are now technically condensing regular, condensing system and condensing combi boilers. So, whether you’re choosing a combi, regular or system boiler, you’re always going to be buying a condensing model.

What makes a good condensing boiler?

I may sound controversial here, but for me, the number one most important thing to look for in a modern condensing boiler is reliability. I’d place efficiency second (as there’s no point in having efficiency when a boiler is unreliable), and third would be quietness when running.

Finally, you’re also going to want a condensing boiler that is able to run with any of the vast assortment of energy efficient smart control systems now available.

Which are the best condensing boiler brands?

Now, let’s take a look at some of the best condensing boiler brands available:

1. Worcester Bosch

There’s no hiding the fact that I am a huge Worcester Bosch fan, and for very good reason. They were a little slower than other brands getting their condensing models to the market, however when they did they were well-researched and very reliable.

That’s why they’ve been voted Which’s ‘Best Buy’ six years running by homeowners and engineers alike, and also have a market-leading guarantee so that you’re covered for all eventualities.

2. Vaillant

German-engineered Vaillant boilers are extremely good quality, and just like Worcester Bosch, they have fantastic guarantees and their own dedicated engineers to attend call-outs if necessary. They also produce the quietest boilers on the market (they’ve won an award).

Despite this being a German brand, parts are always readily available in the UK, and in my opinion they are right up there as one of the best premium brands on the market at the moment.

3. Baxi

Finally, we have good old British manufacturer Baxi. Like others, their first condensing boilers were not the best or most reliable, however they’ve now overcome this with well-developed new models that offer superb performance and great guarantees.

Baxi is a good choice if you’re in need of a quality product that’s also good value for money. Baxi have filled a slight gap in the market, and are offering more for less when it comes to better outputs and flow rates than other brands.

How much should a condensing boiler cost?

The price you can expect to pay for a condensing boiler will depend on a number of factors, including your current home set-up, and whether or not you want a direct replacement to your old model (it can be more complicated if you wish to swap a regular boiler and tanks for a condensing combi boiler).

TIP: Always ask for a couple of fixed price quotes from registered Gas Safe engineers, who will be able to tell you exactly what needs done and how much it will affect cost.

Below is a brief outline of the average price you can expect to pay:

• Direct replacement condensing regular boiler swap – from approx. £1950 incl. VAT and fitting
• Direct replacement condensing system boiler swap – from approx. £2090 incl. VAT and fitting
• Direct replacement condensing combi boiler swap – fromapprox £2190 incl. VAT and fitting

The main thing that will affect the overall price you pay is how close and accessible your boiler is to an existing drain, as a condensate pipe will have to be fitted from your boiler to the drain. In some cases, a pump may be required at added expense.

Other things which may also affect cost include:

• If your gas pipe needs to be upgraded
• If your flue has to be altered to make it neighbour-friendly (as a constant plume of steam passing their window could lead to disputes)

TIP: If you opt for a well-made condensing boiler from a reputable manufacturer, you should be looking for anywhere between a 7 – 10 year guarantee. Don’t scrimp on £100 when you could get an extra three to five years added to your guarantee – it will be worth it!

Conclusion

I hope you’ve found this blog helpful when researching condensing boilers and prices. Remember, there are various factors that will affect the price you can expect to pay for a new condensing boiler, supplied and fitted, so always check with a reputable Gas Safe registered engineer who will provide you with a quote.

Got any questions about choosing a condensing boiler? Leave a comment below and I’ll reply as soon as I can.