If you find that the following points reflect your current situation, electric boilers are worth considering.
- For boiler repair/service, you don’t want tradesmen.
- While you would prefer to save money on boiler installation (100s of Pounds), expect to pay slightly more for your annual energy bills
- It is essential that you choose an eco-friendly central heating system
- Noise can be a deal breaker
- Access to mains gas is not available
- You want to make your home more space-efficient
Installation costs for an electric boiler
The good news is: The good news? Electric boilers don’t require a lot of parts. This makes them faster and easier to install than gas or oil boilers.
For the most expensive models, such as the Comet Electric Combi Boiler by EHC, an average electric boiler installation will cost about £1,800, which includes labour.
Multiple quotes from different installers can help you get the best deal. You can also compare prices with the top oil and gas boilers available by requesting a fixed, free quote.
Combi Boilers that are Energy-Efficient
The Climate Change Committee has found that the UK is not meeting its goals to reduce carbon emissions. UK homeowners are encouraged to upgrade their boilers to improve energy efficiency in order to help them meet green targets.
Because they emit no carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, electric combi-boilers can be considered cleaner than other heating systems.
These boilers do not burn fuel so they lose less energy. This means you only pay for what you use, and not for what you use. Electric combi boilers are estimated to be 99% efficient.
Gas boilers, on the other hand, are between 89-95% and 93% efficient. Oil-fired boilers consume between 85%-93% of their energy. Therefore, electric combination heaters are the best option for the environment and future-proofing UK homes.
Electric Combi Boilers: The disadvantages
You should consider the pros and cons of installing an electric combi boiler before you decide whether or not to do so. They are not the best solution for everyone.
Higher running expenses
The cost of electricity for daytime consumption is higher than that of gas at the time of writing. This means that electric boilers can result in significantly higher energy bills.
The day rate for electricity in the UK is 16p/kWh. Comparatively, kerosene heaters are priced at 4.8p/kWh while LPG heaters are 5.8p/kWh. However, the price fluctuates depending on the oil price. Gas prices average 4.2p/kWh.
You can use an electric storage heater to beat other boiler types with the Economy 7 tariff. Electricity at night costs only 6-8p/kWh. The day rate of electricity is 16p/kWh so people who are home during the day will notice a significant rise in their electricity bills.
Hotter Water
Electric boilers heat water upon demand. It can take some time for hot water to arrive and there is a limit to the hot water available.
The electric combi boilers are better suited for smaller homes with low hot water demands. Gas or oil boilers may be a better choice if you have a large house.
Different types of electric boiler
It is important to compare the various types before you decide to invest in the best residential electric boiler in the market today. Some are better suited for certain property types, budgets, and specific needs.
Direct Electric Boilers
The boiler heats water on demand, not stores. This means there’s a slight delay in hot water getting through. They are also less expensive than other boiler types and require little space.
Storage
The most cost-effective and practical storage heaters are available. They heat water immediately and allow you to take advantage of the Economy 7 tariff. They take up more space and are more costly than direct boilers.
Electric CPSU
Combined Primary Storage Units can store a lot of hot water to meet high demand. These units are heavy and take up much space, so they are best suited for larger homes that have two or more bathrooms.
Dry Core Storage
These boilers heat bricks overnight and then release heat into the water. This allows you to heat water at a lower rate on the Economy 7 tariff. While cost-effective, you have a greater chance of running out of hot water. This boiler is best suited for small homes that do not require hot water.
Solar Compatible boilers
In homes with an immersion heater, electric heaters can be used in conjunction with solar energy. You can take advantage of the nighttime rates by using the solar panels, which provide heat during the day.
Electric Boiler Prices
An electric combi boiler’s price will vary depending on its size, power (in Kilowatts) and manufacturer. The entry models are priced at around £500, while the top-of-the-line electric combi boilers start at around £2500. The average price is around £1500.
You should note that models with lower prices may not be as efficient or cost-effective to run.
Electric Boiler Reviews
Electric combi reviews tend to be positive. They are still relatively new and the technology has advanced significantly in the past few years. However, some manufacturers make claims that are not supported by facts.
The typical running cost of a boiler powered by fossil fuels is much higher than that of gas or oil. Although initial costs may be lower, the long-term costs can still be higher. However, electric combi heaters which store water overnight and can be used the next day to reduce running costs are a good investment.
Keep in mind, however, that oil and gas prices will rise as more resources are available. The use of renewable fuels that are compatible with electric boilers could reduce heating costs.
Electric heaters may not be as environmentally friendly as they might seem. While electric combi boilers are more efficient at home, they are also more environmentally friendly. Electricity is generated by burning fossil fuels, which is the largest contributor to climate change.
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