The way we heat our homes is changing, and it is driven by the drive to reduce carbon emissions. By 2025, gas boilers will no longer be allowed in new developments and by 2035 all installations of gas boilers will have been phased out. By changing how we heat our buildings, banning gas boilers will be just one strategy to reduce carbon emission.
This article will cover one alternative – Electric Boilers, and whether they are really a viable option to gas.
Who is a good candidate for an electric boiler?
Electric boilers have become popular in homes without access to gas mains. Electric boilers have become a more viable option in traditional homes that would otherwise have used gas. The boilers can be easily integrated with existing heating systems.
You may find an electric boiler to be the best option for you if you:
Gas grid off?
Looking for an alternative oil boiler?
You want to reduce your carbon footprint and are environmentally conscious
You don’t have enough outdoor space to install a heat pump. You may have a limited amount of outdoor space.
What is the working of an electric boiler?
Electric boilers are similar to gas boilers. Electric boilers heat water by passing electric current through a heating element. Cold water comes from the mains and is heated using electricity. The heat is transferred when the cold water passes the heating element. This hot water can be used to warm the entire house or stored. The way an electric boiler stores and works can differ depending on which type you choose.
What are the different types of electric boilers?
Electric boilers are similar to gas boilers in that they come in a variety of types. Electric combi boilers, system boilers and heat-only boilers are the three most common types.
Electric combi boilers
It looks similar to a combi gas boiler and provides hot water for both your taps as well as electric central heating boilers. Electric combi boilers heat water on demand, which consumes more energy than the two other options. Electric combi boilers are great because they do not require hot water cylinders, which is a good thing for homes with limited space.
Boilers that only heat with electricity
This type of electric boiler, also known as flow boilers or a high-demand hot water boiler, is ideal for larger properties with a greater demand. Heat-only boilers are different from electric combi boilers. They heat the water and then store it in a tank to be used when necessary. Motorised valves and pumps are used to distribute the heated water throughout a house. Heat-only electric heaters require a cold water feed tank which is filled from the mains supply. This means that a heat only electric boiler will take up more room in your home.
Electric boilers
Imagine putting the external components, such as a pump, from a heat only boiler system into the body of the system boiler. The system boilers are also smaller because they require only a small hot water tank. Some system boilers do not require a hot-water cylinder, as they are integrated into the boiler.
What are the benefits of electric boilers?
Almost 100% efficient!
Electric boilers are more efficient than gas boilers at heating and providing hot water. Electric boilers do not use flue gas, so they use no combustion.
Reduce carbon emissions
Electric boilers are a great option for those who want to reduce their carbon footprint. To make an electric heating system emission-free it is important to ensure that the electricity powering the system comes from 100% renewable sources, such as solar or wind.
Maintenance-free Minimalist
Gas boilers lose money on ongoing maintenance. One-time annual boiler services can cost between PS80 and PS120. There are also products like Home Plan from Corgi that provide boiler and home emergency coverage.
Electric boilers don’t require annual maintenance or much upkeep.
No flue needed!
Electric boilers do not produce waste gases and so they don’t require a flue. This gives you more flexibility in terms of installing one.
Gas leaks are not a concern
Faulty gas heaters can emit carbon monoxide, a poisonous gas that is silently deadly. Gas boilers should be serviced every year for this reason. Electric boilers do not emit harmful gases.
Compact & quiet
Electric boilers tend to be smaller than gas alternatives, which can help to solve any space issues. Electric boilers are quieter because they have fewer moving components. This is ideal if you want to install them in a room which is frequently used.
Compatible with existing heating systems
Electric boilers are compatible with all existing heating systems, including central heating, wet underfloor heating and thermostats.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of electric heating systems?
Running costs
Electricity is currently more expensive per kWh than gas. However, this difference could shrink over time.
People often consider renewable energy sources such as PV when considering an electric heating system. It is a great way to complement an electric heating system, as it reduces the operating costs and offers a high return on investment.
All homes are not suitable
In general, the output of electric boilers is not the same as that of the gas boilers which they replace. In larger homes, the required size (kW), can place too much pressure on the incoming electricity supply. In the future, it is likely that the Distribution Network Operator will provide larger electrical supplies for domestic properties in order to facilitate micro-generation.
Warranty Duration
You’ll notice that the warranties of electric boilers are usually shorter than those for gas boilers. Typically, electric boilers have warranties lasting only 2 or 3 year. Gas boilers may be more competitive, which would encourage manufacturers to provide longer warranties.
What size electric boiler is right for you?
The general rule is that for a boiler used only to heat radiators, you should allow 1.5kW per radiator. If you have eight radiators, you will need a boiler with a power of 12kW. It’s important to keep in mind that some radiators will be larger than others, and they may also be used at different times. It’s important to consider whether your home needs 1.5kW of power per radiator.
You can save money by using less electricity. For example, you may not need more than 500W for a small bathroom towel rail or radiator.
The popular belief is that you should add 3kW to your boiler’s output if it will be used to heat water and provide hot showers. It is a failsafe but not necessary, even if your electric combi boiler is a gas one. We’ve explained why in detail under’Is it possible to replace a gas or an oil boiler with an electric boiler? ‘.
You may need to choose a boiler with a lower heat output if you’re replacing an oil or gas boiler. Your installer will determine the size of electric boiler that you need based on a heat loss calculation. Your energy bill could rise unexpectedly if your electric boiler is too large. Your electric boiler may struggle to provide enough heat and hot water if its output is too low.
What is the price of electric boilers?
Electric boiler prices vary according to the manufacturer and type. Smaller and lower output models cost between PS600 and just over PS1,000. Electric boilers with higher output and power can cost as much as PS2,500.
Consider the cost of installation as well. The cost of replacing a gas system will be much higher than if you were to replace an electric boiler. Installer costs can vary so compare three quotes and make sure you’re getting a fair deal.
Is an electric boiler the right choice for you?
Electric boilers may not be for everyone. Electric boilers are great if you’re off-grid or want to find a real alternative to gas. We recommend that you get a heat loss calculator to ensure you do not over- or under-specify your heating system.
