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3. Boiler types 11 8.9 What type and size of heat emitters are
required? 40
3.1 Condensing boilers 11
8.10 What controls are needed? 40
3.2 Regular boilers 12
3.3 Combination boilers 12
9. Installing central heating systems 41
3.4 Range Cooker boilers 13
9.1 Competent person requirements 41
9.2 Installing the boiler 41
4. Systems and components 14
9.3 Installing the condensate drain pipe 42
4.1 Sealed and open-vented systems 14
9.4 Condensate drain termination 44
4.2 Domestic hot water 15
9.5 Controls 47
4.3 Solar hot water systems 17
9.6 Water treatment 48
4.4 Passive Flue-Gas Heat Recovery Devices
(PFGHRD) 18
10. Commissioning and handover 49
4.5 Upgrading systems 18
10.1 Commissioning 49
4.6 Flue types 19
10.2 Advising householders 49
4.7 Heat emitters 21
10.3 Servicing 49
4.8 Circulator pumps 21
Appendix A – Notes to CHeSS 2008 50
5. Controls 22
5.1 Individual controls 22 Appendix B – Definitions of boiler types 53
5.2 Selecting controls 26
Appendix C – Definitions of heating controls 55
5.3 Further control improvements 27
2 Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition)
1. Introduction to best practice
Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition) 3
Introduction to best practice
The advances in boiler technology mean that when 1.2 Energy consumption and emissions
older boilers are replaced, substantial efficiency Boilers consume far more energy than household
improvements can be expected from newer appliances. In the UK the average dwelling with
equipment. Manufacturers now design for maximum central heating uses about 23,000 kilowatt-hours
efficiency consistent with durability. The greatest (kWh) of energy each year, of which about 85% is
energy efficiency benefits are obtained from installing for heating and hot water. To reduce fuel costs and
condensing boilers. These are always more efficient emissions it is important to choose the most efficient
than non-condensing models. It is now a requirement boilers and install them in suitably designed and
of the building regulations that newly installed gas- controlled systems.
Figure 1: Heating and hot water as a proportion of total energy usage in homes heated by natural gas
4 Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition)
Introduction to best practice
Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition) 5
2. UK building regulations
2.1 Introduction Other parts of the regulations deal with the related
This section outlines the minimum standards issues of the safety of heating installations and with
for heating efficiency as set out in the building fuel storage. They are Part J (England and Wales),
regulations. The remainder of this guide then Section 3: Environment (Scotland) and Technical
concentrates on best practice – a higher standard. Booklet L (Northern Ireland). Requirements for sealed
(unvented) systems are in Part G (England and Wales),
The building regulations set a legal requirement to Section 4: Safety (Scotland) and Technical Booklet P
make ‘reasonable provision… for the conservation (Northern Ireland).
of fuel and power in dwellings’. However, the
approved guidance makes clear that there may well 2.2 General requirements
be alternative ways of achieving compliance, and Calculation of carbon emissions
different strategies can be adopted provided it can The Government’s Standard Assessment Procedure
be shown they are at least as good as those already (SAP), see below, is used to calculate the energy
accepted as reasonable provision. and environmental performance ratings and carbon
emissions of individual dwellings. To comply with
There are different building regulations* in England building regulations, a new dwelling must have carbon
and Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. They emissions that do not exceed a target value. Compliance
restrict the types of heating system that may be is established by calculating a Dwelling Emission Rate
installed in both new and existing dwellings. The (DER) and Target Emission Rate (TER) – see box on
different regulations in each country are summarised page 7. There are some differences in the way that DER
in later sections, but for details reference should and TER are calculated and applied in each country, and
always be made to the official documents(18,19,20). for more information reference should be made to the
respective regulations or standards(18,19,20).
For new dwellings the general approach is to
demonstrate compliance by showing that the Whilst this guide is concerned with gas-fired heating
carbon emissions are below a given threshold for a and hot water systems, renewable energy should also
particular dwelling. There are also minimum SEDBUK be considered. The use of technologies such as solar
efficiencies that apply to gas and LPG boilers. The water heating (see Section 4.3) will reduce the DER.
efficiency of the particular make and model of boiler
installed is used in the calculation of carbon emissions
Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP)
for individual dwellings.
SAP is the UK government’s procedure for the
energy rating of homes(22). The properties of a
For existing dwellings there are minimum
building, such as the insulation, determine its heat
requirements for boiler efficiency, hot water storage
requirements, while the type of heating system
vessels, pipe insulation, controls, and commissioning
and heating fuel determine the energy use, cost
that apply when heating systems are replaced or
and CO2 emissions under standard occupancy
modified.
conditions.
6 Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition)
UK building regulations
Environmental Impact (CO2) rating, and Dwelling emission rate (DER) and target
Environmental Impact (CO2) band emission rate (TER)
The Environmental Impact (EI) rating is a number The DER and TER are calculated as part of the
representing the annual CO2 emissions, calculated as SAP procedure. The DER gives the CO2 emissions
part of the SAP procedure. Higher numbers represent per unit of floor area, expressed in kg/m2/year. To
lower emissions, with 100 representing zero net comply with building regulations in England and
emissions. Numbers above 100 are possible if the Wales, the DER of a new dwelling must not exceed
dwelling is a net exporter of energy. The number a target value (TER). The TER is calculated for a
range is divided into bands labelled A to G that are notional dwelling of the same size and shape, and
intended for use on building energy certificates. varies with choice of fuel.
Boiler efficiency
Condensing boiler exceptions
SAP 2005 uses SEDBUK (Seasonal Efficiency of
To determine the conditions under which a non-condensing boiler
Domestic Boilers in the UK) boiler efficiencies to
is accepted as reasonable, an assessment of the property should be
calculate the energy required to meet the heating
carried out. Details are given in (19,21). There is an assessment form,
demand of the building. Only SEDBUK efficiency
with instructions for completion, and a technical guide(23,24). Key
figures are acceptable and the best source of this
points include the following:
information is the Government’s Boiler Efficiency
Database. See www.boilers.org.uk • The assessment considers fuel type, dwelling type, boiler position,
flue options, flue terminal positions and condensate drain points.
The current minimum efficiencies for gas fired boilers
• The lowest cost installation position must be found, as defined by
are shown in table 1.
the procedure.
Condensing boilers are required in most cases • Standardised costs and benefits are assumed, which will not be
except where the installation would be impractical or the same as actual costs and benefits in any particular property.
excessively costly. In these cases it may be reasonable
• The installation position is based on the characteristics of the
to install a non-condensing boiler instead (see box
empty building, ignoring furniture and fittings as well as any
– condensing boiler exceptions). The procedure
position preferred by the owner.
is referred to as ‘Assessing the case for a non-
condensing boiler’ in England, Wales and Northern • A simple points system determines whether the lowest cost
Ireland and ‘Condensing Boiler Installation Procedure’ installation option exceeds a fixed threshold.
in Scotland.
• The assessment form must be completed and signed by a
competent person and a copy given to the building owner, who
Table 1: Minimum efficiency (SEDBUK) should retain it as evidence an assessment has been carried out.
requirements – UK building regulations
• If confirmed by the assessment, a non-condensing boiler may
New Existing then be installed. The assessment form may be needed as
dwellings dwellings evidence when the building is sold.
Regular boilers 86% 86% • Even when an exception is allowed, a condensing boiler is
preferable and a grant may be available to the householder to
Combination boilers 86% 86% assist with the extra installation cost.
Range cooker/boilers* 75% 75% • The boiler installed, whether condensing or non-condensing, does
not have to be installed in the position evaluated for the purpose
* The cooker and boiler must have two
of the assessment.
independently controlled burners
Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition) 7
UK building regulations
Separate timing control should be provided for hot Further information is available from the Communities
water, unless this is provided by a combi boiler. and Local Government (CLG) planning portal website
www.planningportal.gov.uk
Boiler interlock (see Section 5.1) is needed to ensure
that the boiler and pump is switched off when Hot Water
neither heat nor hot water is wanted. Thermostatic Hot water storage vessels should be insulated
radiator valves (TRVs) alone do not provide boiler in accordance with BS 1566, BS 3198 or BS EN
interlock. They must be supplemented by a room 12897(25,27,28), and the internal heat exchanger should
thermostat or similar device to turn off the boiler and be sized accordingly. There should be pumped
prevent unnecessary boiler cycling. circulation through the primary circuit to the heat
exchanger. If a thermal store is used, it should meet
A bypass circuit of specified minimum length should the requirements of the Waterheater Manufacturers’
be provided if the boiler manufacturer’s instructions Association 1999 performance specification(29).
require it, in which case it should be fitted with an
automatic bypass valve. They must also have a label showing type, capacity,
heat loss and performance.
Pipework
Pipes should be insulated wherever they pass Electrical works
outside the heated living space. In addition, all hot In addition to the requirements of BS 7671, certain
water pipes connected to the hot water cylinder electrical works are regarded as controlled services
(including the vent pipe and the primary flow and and should only be carried out by a competent
return) should be insulated for at least 1m from the person and notified by the competent person
connection. Pipework in unheated areas must be scheme to which they belong.
insulated to meet requirements to limit heat loss.
8 Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition)
UK building regulations
Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition) 9
UK building regulations
The installation, alteration or replacement of any The technical booklets refer to the Communities
heating system must comply with the relevant and Local Government (CLG) publication ‘Domestic
regulations. All new heating systems should be Heating Compliance Guide’(21) for requirements on
notified to building control, and any alteration to an controlled services, insulation of pipes, ducts and
existing heating system where a structural alteration storage vessels.
is involved. Where an existing heating system is
extended, the extension to the system must be Hot Water
insulated to comply with regulation F4. Hot water storage vessels should be insulated
in accordance with BS 1566, BS 3198 or BS EN
‘Technical Booklet F1: Conservation of fuel and 12897(25,27,28), and the internal heat exchanger should
power’(20) gives provisions that are deemed-to- be sized accordingly. There should be pumped
satisfy the requirements of regulations F3 and F4. circulation through the primary circuit to the heat
Although it is not essential to follow Technical exchanger. If a thermal store is used, it should meet
Booklet F1, it is obligatory to comply with building the requirements of the Waterheater Manufacturers’
regulations F3 and F4. Association 1999 performance specification(29).
Further information is available from the Department They must also show a label detailing type, capacity,
of Finance and Personnel, Northern Ireland website heat loss and performance.
www.dfpni.gov.uk
Commissioning
Existing buildings Upon completion of the installation, the
A new boiler (whether or not it replaces an existing system should be inspected and then brought
unit) should meet or exceed the minimum efficiency into service so that it operates efficiently and
requirements given in table 1 (page 7). Where meets its specified performance levels. Local
the installation of a condensing boiler would be authority building control must be notified
impractical or excessively costly, it may be reasonable of any gas firing, storage, installation and
to install a non-condensing boiler instead (see commissioning works.
panel – condensing boiler exceptions on page 7).
Replacements should as specified for new systems A building notice confirming that all fixed building
and no worse than 2 percentage points lower than the services have been commissioned by a suitably
boiler being replaced. Further requirements apply if the qualified person is required and a copy given to the
replacement involves fuel change. district council and the dwelling owner.
10 Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition)
3. Boiler types
While this guide describes all types of gas-fired Features of condensing boilers
boilers, it concentrates on condensing units which in • SEDBUK efficiencies between 86% and 97%
most cases must be fitted since building regulations (with natural gas as the fuel).
specify them as a minimum requirement.
• Typically a new condensing gas boiler will have
Condensing boilers provide optimum performance an efficiency of 90%, compared with 80% for
with low running costs and reduced CO2 emissions. a new non-condensing boiler and 55-65% for
older types.
Natural gas produces the lowest CO2 emissions per
unit of heat delivered and also offers low running • The system does not need to be designed to
costs for a wide range of dwellings. LPG boilers make the boiler condense all the time to achieve
are similar in design and efficiency, but the fuel is improved efficiency.
considerably more expensive. The additional cost of
storage tanks (usually rented from the fuel supplier) • Available in regular and combi models.
also needs to be considered.
• Mostly wall-mounted, although some larger
When seeking estimates of installation costs for output models are floor standing.
LPG-fired boilers, ensure that the provision and
installation of an adequate LPG gas storage tank is • Only room-sealed, fan-flue models available for
taken into account as well. domestic applications.
In most households, a single boiler provides both • Most have extended flue options.
space heating and hot water, either:
• Suitable for replacing most existing boilers (but
• Indirectly, through a regular boiler and separate not back boiler units (BBUs) in the same position).
hot water tank (which is usually a copper cylinder
with a heating coil inside); Installation considerations for condensing boilers
Or • They are as easy to install as non-condensing
• Directly, using a combination boiler with no boilers, but need a connection from the
separate tank. condensate outlet to a drain.
Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition) 11
Boiler types
12 Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition)
Boiler types
Space heating
The power (rate of heat output) of combi boilers is Hot
usually governed by hot water service requirements, water
and often exceeds that needed for space heating.
Consequently most combi boilers are designed
with modulating burners; i.e. they reduce the firing
rate to match the lower heat output requirements
for space heating. In some cases the boiler design
heat output for space heating is lower than that for
domestic hot water.
Space
Hot water heating
Factors to consider are:
• The time taken for hot water to reach an
acceptable temperature.
• How long this rate can be sustained. Combined primary storage units
CPSUs are a special category of storage combi boiler.
• Can hot water be drawn off at more than one
They include a very large store of water (a minimum
point simultaneously?
of 70 litres) designed to buffer both the hot water and
space heating requirements. The store is sufficiently
These factors will be influenced by the following:
large to reduce frequent boiler cycling. CPSUs allow
• The size of the internal hot water store. A store radiators to warm up very quickly and are capable of
can reduce the delay in delivering hot water. providing hot tap water at a high flow rate.
There are four different types:
–– Instantaneous: no internal hot water store. 3.4 Range Cooker boilers
–– Keep-hot: small or no internal hot water Some gas-fired cookers have a hot water boiler
store, keeps water within the boiler (either integral or separate).
permanently hot to reduce warm-up time
at boiler start-up (sometimes called ‘warm- The latest units have two burners: one is for heating
start’). and hot water; the other is for cooking and has
–– Medium store: sufficient to meet small hot independent control. The casings of these cooker
water requirements without delay, but boilers have relatively high heat loss, which can be
insufficient for a bath. useful in winter but not in summer. Condensing units
–– Large store: sufficient for a bath or multiple are now being introduced.
simultaneous draw-off without delay.
–– Combined Primary Storage Units (CPSU): see
figure 5.
Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition) 13
4. Systems and components
Open-vented
The majority of existing systems with a regular boiler
and an indirect hot water cylinder are open vented.
Figure 7: Open system ‘Open vent’ refers to the separate vent pipe which is
open to the atmosphere. The system also needs a
feed-and-expansion cistern to allow for changes in
water volume with temperature. This cistern has to be
at the highest point of the system, usually in the loft
space where it must be protected against freezing.
14 Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition)
Systems and components
Cold
water
main
Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition) 15
Systems and components
Feed and
expansion cistern
Hot water
taps
Cold water
main
Medium-duty cylinders have inferior performance Mains-fed systems such as combi boilers, unvented
and do not meet CHeSS basic requirements or those cylinders and thermal stores can supply hot water at
of the building regulations, and so should not be mains pressure. This is extremely beneficial when high
used for either new or replacement installations. pressure is needed at the outlet, e.g. for showers. It
is therefore important to ensure that the incoming
Thermal stores can be obtained that hold water water supply pressure and flow to the dwelling are
at high temperatures, heated by the boiler directly. adequate and that all showers have the hot and
These are available for ‘hot water only’ or ‘hot water cold water supply at the same nominal pressure. This
and space heating’. eliminates the need for a shower pump.
16 Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition)
Systems and components
4.3 Solar hot water systems high but costs can be recouped through reduced
The use of solar water heating provides the heating bills. When systems are being upgraded
opportunity to reduce running costs and carbon and the hot water cylinder is being replaced,
emissions when used in conjunction with wet central consideration should be given to installing a larger
heating systems. There is now a large choice of cylinder containing a solar heating coil. This facility will
systems available and the technology is improving then save cost and disruption if it is decided to install
all the time. Depending on system design a thermal solar heating panels at a later date.
solar system can provide most of the average
dwelling domestic hot water requirement in the Solar hot water systems can also be used in
summer and up 50% all the year round. conjunction with some combi boilers. However, this
should only be considered where the combi boiler
There are a range of different systems available, is part of an integrated solar package since systems
but the general principle is that roof-mounted solar based on ad-hoc components may not achieve
collectors are heated by the sun, and the heated water good energy savings and boilers may not operate
is passed to a special hot water storage cylinder. This correctly. When considering this option the boiler
water is then further heated to raise the temperature, if manufacturer’s advice should always be obtained.
necessary, by the gas-fired boiler system.
Separate guidance and advice on solar systems
Figure 10 shows a typical open vented system with should be sought(34,46). Also where appropriate, low
a large cylinder containing an additional solar heat carbon supplementary heat sources such as heat
exchanger, usually referred to as twin-coil. Sealed pumps or wood burning stoves can be considered.
solar primary systems (i.e. to collectors) are commonly Where these are combined with gas-fired systems,
used and unvented ‘twin-coil’ cylinders are also expert advice should be sought to ensure both safety
available. The capital costs of systems are relatively and energy efficiency is optimised.
Solar
collector
Controller
To
boiler
Figure 10: Solar water heating system for connection to a boiler (safety controls not shown)
Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition) 17
Systems and components
PFGHRD
Cold inlet
Space heating
Hot water
18 Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition)
Systems and components
4.6 Flue types New condensing boilers can have the following
Most new boilers installed will be of the condensing flue types, straight-through-the-wall; extended
type and in most cases they will be replacing non- concentric or extended twin pipe (figure 13);
condensing units. The different flue arrangements or extended non-balanced which is sometimes
of the existing model may affect the sitting of the referred to as a plume management option
new boiler. All domestic gas condensing boilers are (figure 14). In addition some flues offer a
room-sealed or fanned. Existing non-condensing directional terminal which can be used to minimise
boiler flues can be open-flue or room sealed, natural plume nuisance. e.g. adjacent to an internal corner
draught or fanned (figure 12). (figure 15).
Secondary
air
Air Air
inlet inlet
Fan Air
inlet
Horizontal concentric
Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition) 19
Systems and components
20 Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition)
Systems and components
Underfloor heating is an attractive alternative in Circulator pumps are built into combi and system
the right circumstances, but it needs to be installed boilers and it must be ensured that the pump has
by specialists(36). It also requires careful control in adequate head and flow rate to meet the system
accordance with the manufacturer’s guidance. design.
Other important points regarding heat emitters Pumps that are installed separately (i.e. not supplied
include the following. as part of the boiler unit) and that have automatic
speed control should only be used in heating systems
• Radiators sited under windows counteract cold
with TRVs if the design of the pump and system
downdraughts and so give a more comfortable
ensures that the minimum flow rate through the
environment in the room.
boiler (as specified by the boiler manufacturer) is
• Radiators should be installed close to the floor, certain to be maintained under all conditions.
preferably 100-150mm above finished floor level.
Multiple pumps (one for each water circuit) may
• Wide, low radiators will be more effective at
be used as an alternative to a single pump with
heating the room evenly than tall, narrow
motorised valves, provided that each water circuit
designer styles.
has a non-return valve. Advice on pump sizing can
• Enclosures around radiators reduce the heat be obtained from the British Pump Manufacturers’
output. Association (BPMA) website at www.bpma.org.uk
Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition) 21
5. Controls
22 Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition)
Controls
Room
temperature
Figure 16: A programmable room thermostat offers greater flexibility in setting temperatures and times than a
standard room thermostat, producing greater savings
Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition) 23
Controls
Thermostatic hot water temperature limit valve valve is removed (programmer off-period, or
These self-acting valves without motors are used to thermostat is satisfied) the motorised valve will
limit hot water temperature in domestic hot water close, the end switch will open and the boiler
cylinders. Some units sense primary water (boiler) and pump will stop.
temperature, others have a separate remote sensor
for stored water temperature. Cylinder controls • Regular boiler with two separate pumps for heating
should not be used with these unless they also and hot water. Where separate pumps are used,
operate an electrical switch to provide boiler interlock. advice from the manufacturer is needed in regard to
Otherwise the boiler will cycle unnecessarily. the correct use of relays, check valves, etc.
Motorised valve (best practice) • Combi boiler. This only requires a time switch
These control water flow from the boiler to heating and room thermostat (or programmable room
and hot water circuits. Two-port valves can also be thermostat) connection to provide interlock as
used to provide zone control e.g. allowing lower hot water delivery is controlled directly by the
temperatures to be set for sleeping areas or different boiler. A boiler energy manager may need a
heating times. An explanation of the different types different wiring arrangement, achieving interlock
is given in Appendix D. Multiple pumps are an by an alternative method.
alternative to motorised valves (see Section 4.8).
Automatic bypass valve (best practice)
Boiler interlock (best practice) This controls water flow according to the differential
This is not a device, but rather a wiring arrangement pressure of the water across it. It is used to maintain
to prevent the boiler firing when there is no demand a minimum flow rate through the boiler and to limit
for heat. The boiler is interlocked when it is switched the circulation pressure when alternative water paths
on and off by thermostats containing electrical are closed. A bypass circuit must be installed if the
switches. All thermostats in the heating system fitted boiler manufacturer requires one, or specifies that a
with electrical switches should be wired in this way. minimum flow rate has to be maintained while the
This includes room thermostats, programmable room boiler is firing. The installed bypass circuit must then
thermostats, cylinder thermostats and some types of include an automatic bypass valve, not a manual
boiler energy managers. In many cases, the interlock (fixed position) valve.
is also applied to the operation of the pump, although
any requirements for pump overrun stipulated by The use of an automatic bypass is important where
the boiler manufacturer must be observed. Without the system includes a large number of TRVs. When
interlock, a boiler is likely to cycle on an off regularly, most of these are open, the automatic bypass
wasting energy by keeping hot unnecessarily. remains closed, allowing the full water flow to
circulate around the heating system. As the TRVs
Achieving interlock depends upon the boiler type and start to close, the automatic bypass starts to open,
the controls fitted. Typical examples of boiler interlock maintaining the appropriate water flow through the
are as follows. boiler. It also helps to reduce noise in the system
caused by excess water velocity.
• Regular boiler with one 3-port or at least
two 2-port motorised valves. The interlock is An automatic bypass is always preferable to a fixed
usually arranged so that the room or cylinder bypass. With a fixed bypass, there is a constant
thermostat switches the power supply to the flow of hot water coming out of the boiler, which is
boiler (and sometimes the pump) through the fed directly into the return at all times. This means
motorised valve end switches. In other words, that the boiler operates at a higher temperature,
electrical power from the programmable room reducing efficiency and restricting the amount of heat
thermostat (or separate programmer and room transferred to the system.
thermostat) and the cylinder thermostat will
drive the valve motor to the open position. It is very important that both automatic and fixed
Once the motor is fully open, the end switch bypasses are correctly adjusted. Poor adjustment will
will close and electrical power is then passed give rise to increased boiler return temperatures and
to the boiler and pump. Once the power to the reduced boiler efficiency.
24 Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition)
Controls
End
230 V Neutral
switch
HW
Cylinder
SH thermostat
HW
Programmable
motorised
room thermostat Boiler
valve
with timing for
hot water
End
switch
Pump
SH
motorised
valve
Programmable room
thermostat for each End
additional space switch
heating zone
Repeat for SH
each additional
heating zone SH motorised valve
for each additional
space heating zone
Figure 17: Boiler interlock in a system with two, 2-port valves (this shows the general logic and should not be
interpreted as an installation instruction, as the actual wiring will depend on the particular products used).
Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition) 25
Controls
Table 4: Control functions commonly built into boilers and control units
Compensator Reduces boiler water temperature for space heating according to internal/external air
temperature. It should increase the efficiency of condensing boilers by reducing the average
water temperature of the system.
Delayed start Reduces energy use by delaying the heating start time to after the programmed time when
the weather is mild.
Night Allows a low temperature to be maintained at night, providing improved comfort and
setback reduced warm-up time in the dwelling in cold weather. In this way it can reduce the risk of
hypothermia. A programmable room thermostat can fulfil this function.
PI or PID The letters stand for Proportional/Integral, or Proportional/Integral/Derivative. These control
functions can be built into room thermostats to reduce variations in room temperature.
Anti-cycling Delays boiler firing in order to reduce cycling frequency, but is unlikely to produce significant
control energy savings. In some circumstances consumption may be reduced, but normally at the
expense of performance or comfort. Standalone units (i.e. those not supplied as part of the
boiler) are not generally recommended as they provide little or no improvement over the basic
level of control detailed in CHeSS.
• Cylinder thermostat.
• Boiler interlock.
26 Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition)
Controls
Hot water
Mains water
Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition) 27
Controls
8 Home automation
Whole house control systems are now available,
integrating the operation and control of a wide range
of systems and appliances. Of particular relevance for
energy efficiency is:
5 6 7 8 9 10
• Time and temperature control of individual
Time (hours)
rooms.
Typical settings
• Features to permit remote setting and operation
• Maximum heat up period, e.g. 6am to 8am
of time switches, i.e. programmers and
• Normal occupancy period, e.g. 8am to 10am
thermostats.
28 Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition)
6. Central Heating System Specifications (CHeSS)
CHeSS provides a series of ready-made specifications The main elements are reproduced in the following
for purchasing the components that critically affect tables and the explanatory notes can be found at the
the energy efficiency of wet central heating systems. end of this document. The complete specification is
Following them will improve energy efficiency and available in a separate Energy Efficiency Best Practice in
reduce carbon emissions. Housing document(38). That publication also contains
quantified energy, carbon and cost savings for the
Purchasers should use these specifications to ensure different specifications.
their heating installations will meet best practice or
basic requirements. Installers can use them to quote The basic specifications HR7 and HC7 are sufficient
for systems of defined quality, comparable with those to comply with the building regulations. The two best
of their competitors. practice specifications HR8 and HC8 are to be preferred
(see table below).
Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition) 29
Central Heating System Specifications (CHeSS)
30 Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition)
7. Energy efficiency
A boiler’s SEDBUK efficiency is an indicator of the ‘Seasonal efficiency (SEDBUK) = [x]% The value is
average annual boiler efficiency determined by the used in the UK Government’s Standard Assessment
amount of heat delivered to the primary (boiler Procedure (SAP) for energy rating of dwellings. The
water) heating circuit. It is assumed that the boiler is test data from which it has been calculated have
installed in a fully-pumped system which has been been certified by [name and/or certification of
correctly designed and which has adequate controls. Notified Body].’
The claimed SEDBUK efficiency level will not be
achieved otherwise. Energy efficiency figures calculated by other methods
may not be consistent with SEDBUK, and should be
The SEDBUK calculation process (which can be disregarded.
found in Appendix D of the SAP[22]) uses actual
boiler test data, the measurements being taken by Figure 23 shows typical SEDBUK efficiencies for
methods defined in European standards to meet both new and older boilers. In practice there are
the requirements of the European Boiler Efficiency limits both to the minimum efficiency due to the
Directive(39). This provides manufacturers with an requirements of the Boiler Efficiency Directive, and to
incentive to make their products as efficient as the maximum permitted value based on theoretical
possible. considerations.
Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition) 31
Energy efficiency
Combi (old)
Back boiler
Regular
Combi
CPSU
Condensing regular
Condensing combi
Condensing CPSU
50 54 58 62 66 70 74 78 82 86 90 94
Efficiency (%)
Note: Grey sections indicate additional range of boilers with permanent pilot ignition.
7.2 The Standard Assessment 7.3 Energy consumption and running costs
Procedure (SAP) Table 5 gives typical annual fuel costs for some of
Home energy ratings are designed to give an the more common types of dwelling found in the
indication of the energy efficiency of a dwelling and UK – both existing properties and new buildings.
so allow householders to compare different homes. Existing housing is typical of the existing housing
The SAP is the Government’s chosen rating system stock(40). New housing has the same floor areas for
and indicates the running costs of space and water comparison, but is built with insulation levels that
heating. The building regulations procedures require would satisfy the latest building regulations. The flat
all new dwellings to be assessed in this way. is on the top floor (a top floor flat has an energy
consumption intermediate between a ground and
The current version of SAP is SAP 2005. The ratings mid-floor flat). Hot water costs are related to a typical
are expressed on a scale of 1-100, with higher figures number of occupants for the size of property.
representing greater efficiency and lower running
costs. Ratings above 100 are possible when the Figures shown assume average UK weather
dwelling is a net exporter of energy. The actual figure conditions (the Midlands). Consumption would be
depends on certain characteristics of the building and around 3-6% lower in the south and 3-6% higher in
its heating systems, in particular: the north.
• Building design.
• Insulation levels. Typical energy consumption has been calculated
• Solar heat gains. using the Building Research Establishment (BRE)
• Ventilation. Domestic Energy Model, BREDEM-12(41). This
• Heating and hot water efficiency (SEDBUK) and estimates annual domestic energy usage associated
controls. with house design, insulation levels, local climate
• Energy export. and type of heating system (including efficiency
and heating usage). The model is widely used for
calculating domestic fuel running costs.
32 Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition)
Energy efficiency
Fuel costs of 1.63 and 3.71 pence per kWh are used 7.4 Carbon dioxide emissions
for natural gas and bulk LPG as given in the 2005 Table 6 gives typical values of annual CO2 emissions
edition of the SAP (Table 12). These costs do not for the same types of dwelling. Carbon intensity
include standing charges, maintenance or circulating values are taken from SAP (2005) Table 12.
pump running costs.
Table 5: Annual fuel (gas or LPG) costs for heating and hot water in different property types
Existing housing New housing
Boiler type SEDBUK
F B T SD D F B T SD D
Gas - old boiler (heavy weight) 55% £287 £361 £383 £434 £575 £92 £116 £116 £145 £172
Gas - old boiler (light weight) 65% £243 £305 £324 £368 £486 £78 £98 £96 £123 £146
Gas - new, non-condensing 79% £200 £251 £266 £302 £400 £65 £81 £81 £101 £120
Gas - new, condensing 90% £175 £220 £234 £266 £351 £56 £71 £71 £89 £105
LPG - old boiler (heavy weight) 57% £630 £792 £840 £954 £1,262 £203 £255 £255 £318 £378
LPG - old boiler (light weight) 67% £536 £674 £715 £812 £1,074 £173 £217 £217 £271 £322
LPG - new, non-condensing 81% £443 £557 £591 £672 £888 £143 £180 £180 £224 £266
LPG - new, condensing 92% £390 £491 £521 £591 £782 £126 £158 £158 £197 £234
F Flat
B Bungalow
T Terraced
SD Semi-detached
D Detached
Table 6: CO2 emission (tonne/yr) for gas or LPG heating and hot water in different property types
Existing housing New housing
Boiler type SEDBUK
F B T SD D F B T SD D
Gas - old boiler (heavy weight) 55% 3.41 4.29 4.55 5.17 6.84 1.52 1.91 1.91 2.38 2.83
Gas - old boiler (light weight) 65% 2.89 3.63 3.85 4.38 5.79 1.28 1.62 1.62 2.02 2.40
Gas - new, non-condensing 79% 2.38 2.99 3.17 3.60 4.76 1.06 1.33 1.33 1.66 1.97
Gas - new, condensing 90% 2.09 2.62 2.78 3.16 4.18 0.93 1.17 1.17 1.46 1.73
LPG - old boiler (heavy weight) 57% 3.97 4.99 5.30 6.02 7.96 1.77 2.22 2.22 2.77 3.30
LPG - old boiler (light weight) 67% 3.38 4.25 4.51 5.12 6.77 1.50 1.89 1.89 2.36 2.80
LPG - new, non-condensing 81% 2.80 3.52 3.73 4.24 5.60 1.24 1.57 1.57 1.95 2.32
LPG - new, condensing 92% 2.46 3.09 3.28 3.73 4.93 1.09 1.38 1.38 1.72 2.04
F Flat
B Bungalow
T Terraced
SD Semi-detached
D Detached
Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition) 33
Energy efficiency
In addition to the database, the website also has two 7.6 Saving energy with better controls
interactive programs. The first is an annual fuel cost It is better to replace both boiler and controls when
estimator for boilers of known efficiency in different upgrading a heating system. However, in some
types of housing. The second is a whole-house circumstances, it may be appropriate to leave an
boiler sizing calculator to help estimate a suitable existing boiler in place and upgrade the controls.
replacement boiler size for individual properties Table 7 shows what savings could be obtained by
where dimensions and other relevant data are fitting new controls (to CHeSS standards) to older
known. (See also Section 8.2). types of boiler.
34 Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition)
Energy efficiency
Table 7: Typical energy savings achievable by upgrading the controls on existing systems
Approximate
average
Existing system has Add the following1 for
savings2
the following controls: best practice controls
(% of the existing
fuel consumption)
Older boiler with gravity DHW
18
13
3 12
10
10
Key:
Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition) 35
8. System selection: practical issues
When choosing which best practice system to install 7. Will it be an open or sealed system?
the following questions should be addressed.
8. What type of hot water system is most suitable?
1. Which boiler type is most suitable?
9. What type and size of heat emitters are required?
2. What size boiler is required?
10. What controls are needed?
3. Where will the boiler be positioned?
4. What will be the flue terminal position and CHeSS (see Section 6) specifies the main components
arrangement? needed to achieve best practice in wet central
heating systems, but there are many additional
5. Where does the condensate drain go?
aspects of the installation to consider. The following
6. Are there any special ventilation requirements? tables outline the key points.
36 Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition)
System selection: practical issues
Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition) 37
System selection: practical issues
8.4 What will be the flue terminal position and arrangement? (32,47)
Condensing boilers
Plume A plume is present most of the time that the boiler operates. Avoid terminal
positions where a plume would be directed:
• Towards or across a door or window.
• Towards a frequently used area (e.g. patio, access route or car parking
space).
• Across a neighbouring dwelling or boundary.
• In close proximity to an opposite wall or surface.
Freezing Avoid situations where:
• Condensate from a terminal may drip onto a path, then freeze and cause
a hazard.
• The plume may condense then freeze, damaging a wall or surface.
Terminal guards Usually required where terminal is less than 2m from ground level. These need
to withstand corrosive effect of condensate.
Extended flues If the plume may cause a nuisance, consider an extended vertical/horizontal
flue, plume management option, a ‘directional’ terminal or alternative boiler
position.
38 Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition)
System selection: practical issues
Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition) 39
System selection: practical issues
8.9 What type and size of heat emitters are required? (31,35)
Heat emitter type Panel radiators offer the lowest cost option. Use Low Surface Temperature
(LST) radiators where young children or elderly are likely to be present and may
be at risk. Where underfloor systems are being considered refer to specialist
advice(36).
Size Avoid undersizing as it will result in unsatisfactory heating performance and
may give rise to reduced boiler efficiency from excessive boiler cycling. If
radiators are oversized ensure boiler controls are set to operate at suitable
temperatures. Use a full design heat loss calculation method(19). An example
can be found at www.centralheating.co.uk
When used with Increasing radiator sizes can reduce average boiler operating temperatures
condensing boilers and therefore increase efficiency. However, care should be exercised when
oversized radiators are installed in a room with a controlling room thermostat.
If radiators in other rooms are not similarly oversized, the controllability of the
whole system may be affected.
System upgrades The heat emitters and system should be cleaned to remove deposits and
sludge which reduce heating performance.
40 Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition)
9. Installing central heating systems
Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition) 41
Installing central heating systems
Refer to the condensing boiler exceptions procedure • A rainwater hopper that is part of a combined
before the boiler/flue terminal position is decided. In any system (i.e. sewer carries both rainwater and foul
event particular care is required where it is intended to fit water).
a flue terminal which will be positioned less than 2.5m
• A purpose-made small soakaway.
from a facing wall, boundary fence or neighbouring
property. Where the plume from a terminal may cause
Internal drain points are to be preferred as they are
a nuisance, consider an extended vertical or horizontal
less likely to become blocked by leaves, or by frozen
flue or moving the boiler to an alternative position which
condensate(45).
may provide a more acceptable terminal position. Also
consider a ‘plume management’ option and/or using a
9.3 Installing the condensate drain pipe
flue terminal in which the direction in which the jet of
Condensate traps
flue products can be adjusted.
Building regulations require a trap to be installed in
the condensate pipe from the boiler:
The plume should not cross:
• If this goes straight to a gully or rainwater hopper,
• A frequently used access route.
a water seal of at least 38mm is required.
• Any frequently used area (such as a patio or car
• If connected to another waste pipe, the water
parking space).
seal must be at least 75mm to prevent foul
• A neighbouring dwelling. smells entering the dwelling.
Nor should it be directed towards a window or door, Internal traps already fitted within the boiler may
or be sited close to a facing wall or other surface. not always satisfy the building regulations. Unless
otherwise stated by the manufacturer’s instructions,
There are also other aspects to consider when an additional trap of either 38mm or 75mm
planning the flue terminal position: (depending on the proposed connection) will be
required. An air break between the traps is also
• A free passage of air is needed at all times to
necessary (see figure 25).
aid plume dispersal, which may be difficult in
sheltered locations.
Pipe runs
• In cold weather, the condensate could cause a These should be as short as possible. If a condensate
safety hazard if it freezes on pathways, or if it drainpipe runs outside the dwelling, this external
results in frost damage to surfaces. run should be restricted to a maximum of 3m in
order to reduce the risk of freezing. If the boiler is
• The plume could trigger infra-red security lighting
installed in an unheated space such as a garage, all
if sited in the wrong place.
the condensate drainpipes should be regarded as
• Ensure terminals do not obscure security camera ‘external’.
field of vision.
Pipe slope
• The terminal guards must be able to resist
A minimum of 2.5 degrees away from the boiler.
corrosive properties of the condensate.
Bends
Condensate drain point
These should be kept to a minimum. Similarly, the
The amount of condensate produced by a condensing
number of fittings or joints outside the dwelling
boiler depends upon a number of factors but four litres
needs to be minimised in order to reduce the risk of
a day is not unusual. The liquid is slightly acidic (a pH
condensate being trapped.
value of between three and six) and must be disposed
of correctly. Suitable drain points include:
Fixings
• An internal stack pipe. These must be sufficient to prevent sagging. A
maximum spacing of 0.5m for horizontal and 1.0m
• A waste pipe.
for vertical sections is recommended.
• An external drain or gully.
42 Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition)
Installing central heating systems
Boiler Boiler
Air break
Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition) 43
Installing central heating systems
9.4 Condensate drain termination pipes of at least 110mm on a 100mm diameter stack,
Connecting to an internal stack or 250mm on a 150mm stack.
This is the preferred method of connection. The stack
must be made of a material resistant to the corrosive Connecting to an external stack
effect of the condensate, such as the plastics In addition to the requirements detailed above,
recommended for condensate pipes. care must be paid to reducing any risk of the drain
blocking due to the condensate freezing. The length
A trap with a minimum condensate seal of 75mm of pipe external to the dwelling should be kept as
is required. The boiler may incorporate a trap of short as possible and certainly less than 3m. Traps
this size, if not one will have to be fitted to the in the drainpipe must be inside the building. In
condensate drainpipe. A visible air break is required exposed locations, the pipe should be protected with
between this and any other trap. waterproof insulation.
For single dwellings up to three stories high, the Connecting to an internal waste pipe
condensate drainpipe should discharge into the stack The most convenient (and most frequently used)
at least 450mm above the invert of the tail of the bend method of connection is via an internal discharge
at the foot of the stack. If this point is not visible, then branch to a kitchen sink, washing machine or
the height should be measured from the bottom of the dishwasher drain. It can be connected up or down-
lowest straight section of stack to be seen. This height stream of the relevant waste trap and if practical
should be increased for buildings of more storeys. should be mounted onto the top of the pipe. If
connected upstream of the waste trap an air break
The stack connection should not cause cross flow is necessary between this trap and the boiler’s own
into any other branch pipe, nor should it allow flow trap. This is usually provided by the sink waste pipe
from that branch into the condensate pipe. This can itself, as long as the sink has an integral overflow (see
be ensured by maintaining an offset between branch figure 27).
44 Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition)
Installing central heating systems
SINK
If, on the other hand, the condensate drain is In either case the trap and airbreak should be above
connected downstream of the sink (or other appliance) the level of the sink to prevent flows into the boiler
waste trap, and the boiler does not have an integral or airbreak. It is preferable to connect to a washing
trap with a seal of at least 75mm, an additional trap machine drain rather than a kitchen sink. This reduces
with that seal must be fitted. An air break must be the likelihood of solid waste and fats blocking or
included between the traps (see figure 28). restricting the condensate drain entry point.
SINK
Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition) 45
Installing central heating systems
Connecting to an external drain point connections. The external pipework must be kept
If the condensate cannot be drained via an internal to a minimum and not more than 3m in length. The
route, then direct connection to an external gully or pipe may be taken below or above the ground level.
rainwater hopper can be considered. A rainwater
hopper must be connected to a combined system Figure 29 shows a suitable small soakaway design. It
(i.e. sewer carries both rainwater and foul water). should be sited around 1m away from the building
The open end of the pipe should be below the grid (at least 0.5m) and clear of building foundations and
level but above the water level in the gully or hopper. other services. The size of the soakaway will depend
Condensate must not be disposed of in grey water to a large extent on the soil conditions. Unlike the
systems. case of a rainwater soakaway, the soil does not
have to accommodate large water volumes over
Connecting to a small soakaway short periods. A soakaway container approximately
If none of the previous solutions are possible then a 200mm diameter and 400mm deep will normally
purpose made soakaway can be used. It should be be sufficient. The soakaway should be backfilled
located as close as possible to the boiler but clear with limestone chippings. Note that where the soil
of the building foundations and not in the vicinity is poorly drained, e.g. clay, this option may not be
of other services such as gas, electricity or water practical.
0.5 to 1.0 m
Ground level
Section of plastic
drain pipe
46 Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition)
Installing central heating systems
9.5 Controls
There are a number of points to be considered when Cylinder thermostat
installing commonly-used central heating controls. CHeSS best practice specification
This control is usually strapped onto the cylinder about
Programmable Room Thermostat one third of the way up from the base. The strap
CHeSS best practice specification needs to be tight to ensure good thermal contact and
If fitted with a regular boiler, this must have a hot be adjusted to about 60°C. If set too high, it may result
water timing capability. In larger dwellings, where in scalding, but if too low it can increase the risk of
separate time/temperature zones are required, only legionella bacteria which could result in serious health
one programmable room thermostat needs this problems.
hot water timing capability. A programmable room
thermostat should be located in a regularly heated
area. While free movement of air is important, it Motorised valve
should be mounted away from draughts, internal CHeSS best practice specification
heat sources and direct sunlight. It should not The most common types of motorised valves are two
be fitted in a room where supplementary room and three-port. How each will be used depends on
heating, e.g. electric heaters or open fires can affect pipework layout and preference – as displayed in the
it. So do not site one in a kitchen or combined following examples.
kitchen and living room. Only install one in a main
living room if it is certain that no supplementary • Three-port valves can provide separate heating
heating is used there. Suitable positions would be and hot water circuits. Most three-port units
in the hall or a living room without supplementary feature a mid-position which allows shared flow.
heating.
• Where there is more than one heating zone, as
The unit should be readily accessible to the well as a hot water zone, use a separate two-
householder, not hidden away in a cupboard or port valve for each zone.
behind furniture. It should be located at a height of
about 1.5m above floor level unless the occupants • Valves of 22mm can be used on boilers up to
include wheelchair users. In this instance a suitable around 20kW. Beyond that, 28mm or larger
height in excess of 1m should be agreed with the should be used.
homeowner.
Note: motorised valves must not be positioned in the
Time switch/programmer line of the open safety vent pipe or the feed-and-
CHeSS basic systems only expansion pipe.
Time switches can only switch one circuit (such as
combi heating), while programmers can control two
(e.g. heating and hot water). Ensure that the unit is Thermostatic Radiator Valve (TRV)
suitable. CHeSS basic and best practice specifications
TRVs must be used in systems meeting either
These controls should be installed where they can specification. They should be installed in all rooms
be easily reached, read and altered. Do not fit them except those in which a controlling room thermostat
in places inconvenient for the householder (e.g. in an provides a boiler interlock. Many TRVs can be fitted
airing cupboard). on the flow or return to the radiator and many are
bi-directional. If not, the direction of the water flow
must be taken into account when installing them.
Room thermostat
CHeSS basic systems only
Installation considerations are the same as for the
programmable room thermostat.
Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition) 47
Installing central heating systems
48 Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition)
10. Commissioning and handover
10.1 Commissioning • How to set the programmer clock and adjust for
For safe and energy-efficient operation, all parts of a GMT and BST.
new central heating and hot water system need to
• The use of the time control override function.
be checked to ensure they are working properly. In
particular: • How to set summer hot water only.
• The boiler and system should be cleaned using a • How to separate space heating and domestic hot
recognised flushing procedure (see BS 7593:2006). water time settings (regular boilers only).
• A suitable corrosion inhibitor should be used in the • How to set room and cylinder thermostats.
boiler primary water circuit to minimise corrosion
• How to set TRVs.
and the formation of scale and sludge (subject to
recommendations by the boiler manufacturer).
The installer will also need to explain:
• The key system components must be checked for
• The function of room thermostats and TRVs and
correct and safe operation.
the need to set them carefully to avoid wasteful
• The controls should be set to their optimum heating. They should be altered when the needs of
settings. the household change, and should not be treated
as on/off switches.
• The customer should be instructed on how to
operate the controls, and the importance of regularly • That the cylinder thermostat needs to be left at
servicing the system needs to be made clear. approximately 60°C, since setting it higher may
result in scalding while setting it lower can allow
In England and Wales, a CORGI registered installer will the growth of legionella bacteria.
carry out this work and they will send details to CORGI
• That the radiator lockshield and automatic bypass
who will send certificates to the householder and the
valve should not be adjusted once set by the
local authority Building Control. Alternatively installers
installer.
or their customers can use the local authority Building
Control route for notification. • Why it is best to switch space and water heating
off when not required.
To raise the standard of the installation, commissioning
• Why it is best to turn the room thermostat down to
and servicing of central heating systems in the UK,
frost protection levels (approximately 12°C) unless
the Benchmark scheme has been introduced. It is
a separate frost protection system has been fitted.
intended to ensure that all new boilers are both safe
and energy efficient throughout their working life. • That sealed boiler systems must have adequate
Most new boilers will have a log book. This should be system pressure and what to do if re-pressurising
signed by a CORGI registered installer to confirm the is needed.
boiler has been fitted and commissioned in accordance
with the manufacturer’s instructions. Householders will 10.3 Servicing
be encouraged to ask the installer for this log book Users should be made aware of the importance of
and to retain it for evidence of correct installation, regular servicing, both of the boiler and the system as
commissioning and servicing of the boiler and systems. a whole. This will help maintain its safety and efficiency.
In particular, users should consider taking out a regular
10.2 Advising householders service contract where a competent service engineer
Installers must instruct the householder how to set and (registered with CORGI) will clean and maintain the
use the controls properly and effectively. In particular, boiler, check the operation of the system and controls,
the operation of programmers can be difficult to as well as completing the record of servicing in the
understand and homeowners will gain little or no Benchmark log book.
benefit from an incorrectly set device. In fact, they will
probably end up wasting energy. Note that homeowners in England and Wales can now
ask for a energy rating for their boiler with advice on
As a bare minimum, the manufacturer’s instructions how to cut fuel bills, whenever an engineer makes a
should be left with the householder. However, it will regular service visit. An example of the form used in
usually be necessary to demonstrate: shown in Appendix D.
Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition) 49
Appendix A – Notes to CHeSS 2008
2. Design, installation and commissioning 5. Boiler size and type
Heating systems should be designed to match the The whole house boiler sizing method for houses
heating needs of the buildings in which they are and flats gives guidance on boiler size and is
installed, using methods such as those described in available on the Energy Saving Trust website at
Ref [5]. They should be installed in accordance with www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/housingbuildings/
relevant safety regulations, manufacturers’ instructions, calculators/boilersizing
the Benchmark scheme (see Ref [10]), building
regulations (see Refs [1], [2], [11]), the Domestic Heating A regular boiler does not have the capability to
Compliance Guide (see Ref [16]), and British Standards provide domestic hot water directly, though it may do
(see Refs [12], [13], [17], [18]). For oil boilers the OFTEC so indirectly via a separate hot water store.
forms CD/10 and CD/11 (or similar) for installation and
commissioning should be completed. More detailed A combination (combi) boiler does have the
advice on domestic wet central heating systems is given capability to provide domestic hot water directly, and
in the Energy Saving Trust guides (see Refs [3] and [4]), some models contain an internal hot water store.
and the CIBSE guide (see Ref [5]). Commissioning and
handover of information on operation and maintenance A combined primary storage unit (CPSU) is a
is a requirement of building regulations and a suitable boiler with a burner that heats a thermal store directly.
commissioning certificate should be issued.
Each of these may be either a condensing or non-
3. Water treatment condensing boiler, and condensing boilers are always
Water treatment is important as it prolongs effective more efficient. Condensing boilers are fitted with a drain
and trouble-free operation. Three types of water to dispose of the liquid condensate. Building regulations
treatment should be considered: require all new gas and oil boilers to be condensing,
whether installed in new or existing housing, unless
• Cleaning and flushing of the system before use
there are exceptional circumstances that would make
• Corrosion inhibition the installation impractical or excessively costly. All boilers
in the CHeSS specifications HR7, HC7, HR8 and HC8 are
• Softening of the water supply to combi boilers for
condensing boilers.
hot water service in hard water areas.
50 Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition)
Notes to CHeSS 2008
www.boilers.org.uk. Although SEDBUK is expressed High performance cylinders shall comply with
as a percentage, an A to G scale of percentage the heat exchanger performance and labelling
bands has also been defined below. requirements of basic cylinders, as set out in Note 7.
Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition) 51
Notes to CHeSS 2008
52 Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition)
Appendix B – Definitions of boiler types
Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition) 53
Definitions of boiler types
54 Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition)
Appendix C – Definitions of heating controls
As given in SAP Appendix D(22) The list of definitions Boiler modulator (water temperature)
has been discussed and agreed with industry A device, or feature within a device, to vary the fuel
representatives, and, for completeness, includes some burning rate of a boiler according to measured water
controls for heating systems other than gas central temperature. It is often fitted within the boiler casing. The
heating. boiler under control must have modulating capability.
Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition) 55
Definitions of heating controls
Night setback A full programmer allows the time settings for space
A feature of a room thermostat that allows a lower heating and hot water to be fully independent.
temperature to be maintained outside the period
during which the normal room temperature is Pump modulator
required. A device to reduce pump power when not needed,
determined by hydraulic or temperature conditions or
On/off-peak hot water controller firing status of the boiler.
A control to switch the electrical supply to the main
immersion heater from the off-peak electricity supply. Pump over-run
It may also include a boost function so that some of A timing device to run the heating system pump for a
the stored water can also be heated using on-peak short period after the boiler stops firing to discharge
electricity. very hot water from the boiler heat exchanger.
56 Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition)
Appendix D – Energy efficiency checklist
This is part of an initiative to help homeowners cut their fuel bills and reduce their carbon emissions.
Installation Address
Date of assessment
Does the hot water cylinder have spray foam insulation or a jacket with a
Yes No
thickness greater than 75mm?
Does the hot water cylinder have a thermostat and boiler interlock ? 1
Yes No
1
Boiler interlock ensures the boiler and pump shuts down when heating and/or hot water are at the required temperature
Section 4 – Boiler
Manufacturer Approximate Age
Model name/number
High efficiency (A-C rating) D rated E rated F rated High G rated Low G rated
In any of the following cases you are strongly advised to obtain a more thorough examination of your boiler
and complete heating system by a competent heating engineer.
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heating system has not been carried out in the last 15 years.
4JHOBUVSFPGTFSWJDFFOHJOFFS
Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition) 57
Energy efficiency checklist
Insulating hot water pipes connected to the hot water cylinder £10 70 kg/yr
Insulating your hot water cylinder with a jacket thicker than 75mm b 160 kg/yr
Changing from a D rated boiler to an A rated boiler could save you: £54 ,HZS
Changing from an E rated boiler to an A rated boiler could save you: £77 ,HZS
Changing from an F rated boiler to an A rated boiler could save you: £104 ,HZS
Changing from a High G rated boiler to an A rated boiler could save you: £157 UPOOFTZS
Changing from a Low G rated boiler to an A rated boiler could save you: b UPOOFTZS
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b UPOOFTZS
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b UPOOFTZS
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£110 LHZS
The savings shown are approximate and are provided as an illustration only. They are based on a natural gas heated semi-detached
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An Energy Performance Certificate will give you an energy rating for your home and specific recommendations and savings for your
property. Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) are a legal requirement within a Home Information Pack for the marketed sales of
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DBMM0800 512 012
or visit www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/myhome
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For a more thorough inspection of your heating system you should contact a competent heating engineer with an energy efficiency
qualification.
Contact CORGI if you have any concerns about the safety of your gas appliance or to check your installer is CORGI registered on
0800 915 0485 or visit www.trustcorgi.com.
Address Details
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58 Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition)
Appendix E – Heating controls: simple explanations for
householders
Simple explanations of the purpose and principles Room thermostats need a free flow of air to sense
of domestic heating controls are necessary to help the temperature, so they must not be covered by
householders understand them, and encourage curtains or blocked by furniture. Nearby electric fires,
more effective usage. The following pages have been televisions, wall or table lamps may prevent the
written in conjunction with control manufacturers thermostat from working properly.
to accompany the installation and commissioning
instructions for individual products, and are included 2. What is a cylinder thermostat?
with heating controls that carry the Energy Saving A cylinder thermostat switches on and off the heat
Recommended logo. supply from the boiler to the hot-water cylinder. It
works by sensing the temperature of the water inside
1. What is a room thermostat? the cylinder, switching on the water heating when
A room thermostat simply switches the heating the temperature falls below the thermostat setting,
system on and off as necessary. It works by sensing and switching it off once this set temperature has
the air temperature, switching on the heating when been reached.
the air temperature falls below the thermostat
setting, and switching it off once this set temperature Turning a cylinder thermostat to a higher setting will
has been reached. not make the water heat up any faster. How quickly
the water heats up depends on the design of the
Turning a room thermostat to a higher setting will not heating system, for example, the size of boiler and
make the room heat up any faster. How quickly the the heat exchanger inside the cylinder.
room heats up depends on the design of the heating
system, for example, the size of boiler and radiators. The water heating will not work if a time switch or
programmer has switched it off. And the cylinder
Neither does the setting affect how quickly the room thermostat will not always switch the boiler off,
cools down. Turning a room thermostat to a lower because the boiler sometimes needs to heat the
setting will result in the room being controlled at a radiators.
lower temperature, and saves energy.
Cylinder thermostats are usually fitted between one
The heating system will not work if a time switch or quarter and one third of the way up the cylinder. The
programmer has switched it off. cylinder thermostat will have a temperature scale
marked on it, and it should be set at between 60°C
The way to set and use your room thermostat is and 65°C, then left to do its job. This temperature is
to find the lowest temperature setting that you are high enough to kill off harmful bacteria in the water,
comfortable with, and then leave it alone to do its job. but raising the temperature of the stored hot water
The best way to do this is to set the room thermostat any higher will result in wasted energy and increase
to a low temperature – say 18°C – and then turn it the risk of scalding.
up by one degree each day until you are comfortable
with the temperature. You won’t have to adjust the If you have a boiler control thermostat, it should
thermostat further. Any adjustment above this setting always be set to a higher temperature than that of
will waste energy and cost you more money. the cylinder thermostat. In most boilers, a single boiler
thermostat controls the temperature of water sent
If your heating system is a boiler with radiators, to both the cylinder and radiators, although in some
there will usually be only one room thermostat to there are two separate boiler thermostats.
control the whole house. But you can have different
temperatures in individual rooms by installing 3. What is a programmer?
thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs) on individual Programmers allow you to set ‘On’ and ‘Off’ time
radiators. If you don’t have TRVs, you should choose periods. Some models switch the central heating
a temperature that is reasonable for the whole house. and domestic hot water on and off at the same
If you do have TRVs, you can choose a slightly higher time, while others allow the domestic hot water
setting to make sure that even the coldest room is and heating to come on and go off at different
comfortable, then prevent any overheating in other times.
rooms by adjusting the TRVs.
Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition) 59
Heating controls: simple explanations for householders
Set the ‘On’ and ‘Off’ time periods to suit your own The way to set and use your programmable room
lifestyle. On some programmers you must also set thermostat is to find the lowest temperature settings
whether you want the heating and hot water to run that you are comfortable with at the different
continuously, run under the chosen ‘On’ and ‘Off’ times you have chosen, and then leave it alone to
heating periods, or be permanently off. do its job. The best way to do this is to set low
temperatures first, say 18°C, and then turn them up
The time on the programmer must be correct. Some by one degree each day until you are comfortable
types have to be adjusted in spring and autumn at with the temperatures. You won’t have to adjust the
the changes between Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) thermostat further. Any adjustments above these
and British Summer Time (BST). settings will waste energy and cost you more money.
You may be able to temporarily adjust the heating If your heating system is a boiler with radiators,
programme, for example, ‘Override’, ‘Advance’ or there will usually be only one programmable
‘Boost’. These are explained in the manufacturer’s room thermostat to control the whole house. But
instructions. you can have different temperatures in individual
rooms by installing thermostatic radiator valves
The heating will not work if the room thermostat has (TRVs) on individual radiators. If you don’t have
switched the heating off. And, if you have a hot- TRVs, you should choose a temperature that is
water cylinder, the water heating will not work if the reasonable for the whole house. If you do have
cylinder thermostat detects that the hot water has TRVs, you can choose a slightly higher setting
reached the correct temperature. to make sure that even the coldest room is
comfortable, then prevent any overheating in other
4. What is a programmable room rooms by adjusting the TRVs.
thermostat?
A programmable room thermostat is both a The time on the programmer must be correct. Some
programmer and a room thermostat. A programmer types have to be adjusted in spring and autumn at
allows you to set ‘On’ and ‘Off’ time periods to suit the changes between GMT and BST.
your own lifestyle. A room thermostat works by
sensing the air temperature, switching on the heating You may be able to temporarily adjust the heating
when the air temperature falls below the thermostat programme, for example, ‘Override’, ‘Advance’ or
setting, and switching it off once this set temperature ‘Boost’. These are explained in the manufacturer’s
has been reached. instructions.
So, a programmable room thermostat lets you Programmable room thermostats need a free flow
choose what times you want the heating to be on, of air to sense the temperature, so they must not be
and what temperature it should reach while it is on. It covered by curtains or blocked by furniture. Nearby
will allow you to select different temperatures in your electric fires, televisions, wall or table lamps may
home at different times of the day (and days of the prevent the thermostat from working properly.
week) to meet your particular needs.
5. What is a timeswitch?
Turning a programmable room thermostat to a A timeswitch is an electrical switch operated by a
higher setting will not make the room heat up any clock. It allows you to set ‘On’ and ‘Off’ time periods
faster. How quickly the room heats up depends on for either central heating or hot water. It can be
the design of the heating system, for example, the arranged to control both central heating and hot
size of boiler and radiators. Neither does the setting water together, but will turn them both on and off at
affect how quickly the room cools down. Turning a the same times. If you want to control both central
programmable room thermostat to a lower setting heating and hot water and turn them on and off
will result in the room being controlled at a lower at different times, you should have a programmer
temperature, and saves energy. instead of a timeswitch.
60 Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition)
Heating controls: simple explanations for householders
Set the ‘On’ and ‘Off’ time periods to suit your own They should be set at a level that gives you the
lifestyle. On some timeswitches you can choose room temperature you want. These settings may
whether you want the system to run continuously, have to be different in each room, and you should
run under the chosen ‘On’ and ‘Off’ periods, or be set the TRVs to suit each room and then leave
permanently off. You may also be able to adjust them to do their job.
the on and off timing temporarily, e.g. ‘Override’ or
‘Advance’. These are explained in the manufacturer’s Turning a TRV to a higher setting will not make
instructions. the room heat up any faster. How quickly the room
heats up depends on the boiler size and setting,
The clock in the timeswitch must be set to the correct and the radiator size. Turning a TRV to a lower
time. Some types have to be adjusted in spring and setting will result in the room being controlled at a
autumn at the changes between GMT and BST. lower temperature, and saves energy.
The heating system may have other controls TRVs need a free flow of air to sense the
that switch it on or off. For example, the room temperature, so they must not be covered by
thermostat will switch off the heating when the curtains or blocked by furniture.
room has warmed up. And, if you have a hot water
cylinder, the cylinder thermostat will switch off the TRVs cannot turn off the boiler when the whole
water heating when it detects that the hot water house is warm. To do that, you will need a room
has reached the correct temperature. thermostat as well. The radiator in the room
with the room thermostat should not normally
6. What is a thermostatic radiator have a TRV, but, if it does, keep the TRV on the
valve (TRV)? maximum setting and adjust the room thermostat
TRVs sense the air temperature around them and as explained with the instructions.
regulate the flow of water through the radiator which
they are fitted to. They do not control the boiler.
Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition) 61
References
62 Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition)
References
[29] Waterheater Manufacturers’ Association [40] Domestic Energy Fact File 2006, J.I Utley
Performance Specification for Thermal Stores, and L D Shorrock, BRE.
1999. [Shortly to be superseded by a revised [41] BREDEM-12, Building Research Establishment
2008 specification from the HWA (Hot Water Report BR315. BRE, Garston, 1996.
Association)]. [42] Boiler Efficiency Database: see website
[30] The Building Regulations (Northern Ireland) www.boilers.org.uk
2000. Technical booklet F1, Conservation of fuel [43] BS EN 12828:2003 Heating Systems in Buildings.
and power (2006). Design for water based systems.
See website www.dfpni.gov.uk [44] DCLG website www.planningportal.gov.uk
[31] Domestic Heating Design Guide, CIBSE, May See ‘Building Regulations’ then ‘Technical
2007. guidance’ then ‘Approved documents’.
[32] BS 5440:Part 1 and Part 2:2000, Installation of [45] BS 6798:2000 Specification for installation of
flues and ventilation for gas appliances of rated gas-fired boilers rated not exceeding
input not exceeding 60kW (1st, 2nd and 3rd 70kW net.
family gases. [46] Solar Heating, Design and Installation Guide),
[33] BS EN 483:2000 Gas-fired central heating boilers CIBSE, 2007.
– Type C boilers of nominal heat input not [47] The Building Regulations 2000. Approved
exceeding 70kW. Document J, Combustion Appliances & Fuel
[34] Solar hot water installation guide: Energy Storage Systems.
Efficiency Best Practice Programme in Housing [48] Section 3: Environment, Domestic Technical
CE131 [2005]. Handbook, Guidance on achieving the
[35] BS EN 12831:2003 Heating Systems in Buildings. standards set in the Building (Scotland)
Method for calculation of design heat load. Regulations 2004, Scottish Building Standards
[36] Under floor Heating, Design and Installation Agency, 2007. See website www.sbsa.gov.uk
Guide), CIBSE, 2004. [49] SR2006 No.335 The Building (Amendment)
[37] Taking Control, A Guide to buying or upgrading Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2006.
central heating controls, Ricability. [50] BS EN 14336:2004 Heating Systems in buildings.
See www.ricability.org.uk Installation and commissioning of water based
[38] Central Heating System Specifications (CHeSS) – systems.
Year 2008 (CE51). [51] BS 7593:2006, Code of Practice for Treatment
[39] Council Directive 92/42/EEC on efficiency of water in domestic hot water central heating
requirements for new hot water boilers fired systems.
with liquid or gaseous fuels. Official Journal of
the European Communities No L/167/17. 21 May
1992, p. 92.
Domestic heating by gas: boiler systems – guidance for installers and specifiers (2008 edition) 63
CE30
CE30 © Energy Saving Trust February 2005. Revised June 2008. E&OE
This publication (including any drawings forming part of it) is intended for general guidance only and not as a substitute for the
application of professional expertise. Anyone using this publication (including any drawings forming part of it) must make their own
assessment of the suitability of its content (whether for their own purposes or those of any client or customer), and the Energy Saving
Trust cannot accept responsibility for any loss, damage or other liability resulting from such use.
All technical information was produced by BRE on behalf of the Energy Saving Trust.