Pros & Cons of Replacing Existing Combi with Condensing

[brotchaq]

I've had many problems with my boiler that was installed about 8 years ago (replacement PCB, diaphragm, PRV, expansion vessel) in my 4 bed semi (2 adults, 3 kids)

I'm seeking opinions/advice on whether to replace it or keep repairing as necessary.

My existing combi is a Halstead Ace I'm advised that it will probably need a new PCB within months.

I consulted a heating engineer about various issues with the heating and controls and they have suggested a new Vaillant Ecotec Pro 28 condensing boiler. I've read this forum a lot and Vaillant seem to have a good rep so I'm not worried about his selection.

He states that it should save around 40% of gas bill (£200/year) but will cost around 2k to install - again seems an OK price.

I will take a fair few years to recoup the cost so just wondering what you would do? Conitnue to fix Halstead or switch now and reap the benfits of a much more efficient and better boiler?

 

[petit_pablo]

40% saving

Closer to 10-15% i would say, the halstead isnt that inefficient compared to a modern combi.

Your Halstead Ace Assessment Report

Boiler efficiency is rated on the SEDBUK efficiency scale as per the image shown.

A rated boilers are the most efficient and will use more than 90% of the energy that you pay for.
G rated boilers are very inefficient actually WASTING more than 30% of the expensive energy purchased.



Your Halstead Ace boiler is rated at 76 % efficiency which is in the E band.

Whilst E band boilers do not qualify for the Boiler Scrappage Scheme it could be worth your while reviewing the other grants or offers available from the major boiler installers as your boiler is wasting up to 24 % of the gas that you buy.

The Energy Savings Trust advise that the typical savings which can be achieved by replacing E band boilers with new A-rated condensing models and installing a full set of heating controls is £110 per annum.

http://www.boiler-scrappage.info/?namedboiler=8184&boilername=Halstead Ace

 

[Boilerman2]

Given that you rotten old halstead will have spent half of the year not actually working your gas consumption may rise!!
but at least you will be warm and have reliable hot water

 

[brotchaq]

40% saving

Closer to 10-15% i would say, the halstead isnt that inefficient compared to a modern combi.

Your Halstead Ace Assessment Report

Boiler efficiency is rated on the SEDBUK efficiency scale as per the image shown.

A rated boilers are the most efficient and will use more than 90% of the energy that you pay for.
G rated boilers are very inefficient actually WASTING more than 30% of the expensive energy purchased.



Your Halstead Ace boiler is rated at 76 % efficiency which is in the E band.

Whilst E band boilers do not qualify for the Boiler Scrappage Scheme it could be worth your while reviewing the other grants or offers available from the major boiler installers as your boiler is wasting up to 24 % of the gas that you buy.

The Energy Savings Trust advise that the typical savings which can be achieved by replacing E band boilers with new A-rated condensing models and installing a full set of heating controls is £110 per annum.

http://www.boiler-scrappage.info/?namedboiler=8184&boilername=Halstead Ace

Hmm - thats quite a difference from the 40% quoted. Doesn;t quite make the sums add up then....

 

[Agile]

Perhaps the sums do add up for you to get him to fit a new boiler if you did believe a 40% gas saving.

I would agree with about 10-15% saving!

If you were local I would install it cheaper than that too!

Tony