If you have an open fireplace in your home, you may have heard of a back boiler unit. A back boiler is a compact boiler that is installed at the back of an open fireplace hearth. It provides hot water and central heating to the property and is often used as the central heating system for heating the whole house and for heating water.
Back boilers were popular in the UK in the 1960s with the launch of the original Baxi Bermuda. They are still found in many homes today, but they are becoming increasingly outdated and inefficient. If you have a back boiler unit in your home, you may be wondering whether it’s time to replace it with a more modern and efficient heating system.
In this article, we will explore what a back boiler unit is and how it works. We will also look at the alternatives to back boilers and the costs involved in replacing them. Whether you are considering a back boiler replacement or simply want to learn more about this type of heating system, this article will provide you with all the information you need.
What is a Back Boiler Unit?
If you have an open fireplace in your home, you might want to consider installing a back boiler unit. A back boiler is a small, compact boiler that is fitted at the back of an open fireplace hearth. It sits behind a gas fire and provides hot water and central heating to the property.
The back boiler unit is a conventional heating system that was popular in the 1960s. It is a water-filled heat exchanger that is enclosed at the rear of the burning chamber. It has a hot water output at the top of the chamber and a cold water feed at the bottom. The device is designed to enable your heating stove or open fireplace to provide both room heat and domestic hot water or central heating.
Back boilers can be quite messy when taking them out and replacing them with a combi boiler. However, they were the most used boiler in the past. Interestingly, these units were present in most homes until the Government changed the Building Regulations in 2005.
Components of a Back Boiler Unit
If you have a back boiler unit, it is important to understand its components. Here are the main components that make up a back boiler unit:
Heat Exchanger
The heat exchanger is an essential component of a back boiler unit. It is responsible for transferring heat from the fire in the fireplace to the water in the central heating system. The heat exchanger is usually made of metal and is located at the back of the fireplace.
Pump
The pump is responsible for circulating the water in the central heating system. It is usually located near the heat exchanger and is powered by electricity. The pump helps to ensure that the water in the central heating system is evenly distributed and heated.
Expansion Vessel
The expansion vessel is a small tank that is connected to the central heating system. It is designed to accommodate the expansion of water as it heats up. The expansion vessel helps to prevent damage to the central heating system by absorbing any excess pressure.
Safety Valve
The safety valve is an important safety feature of a back boiler unit. It is designed to release pressure from the central heating system if it becomes too high. This helps to prevent damage to the central heating system and ensures that it operates safely.
Temperature Control
The temperature control is an essential component of a back boiler unit. It is responsible for regulating the temperature of the water in the central heating system. The temperature control is usually located near the pump and can be adjusted to ensure that the central heating system operates at the desired temperature.
Understanding the components of a back boiler unit is important for ensuring that it operates safely and efficiently. If you have any questions about your back boiler unit, it is recommended that you seek the advice of a qualified heating engineer.
Working Principle of a Back Boiler Unit
A back boiler unit is a type of heating system that is installed behind an open fireplace hearth. It is designed to provide hot water and central heating to the property. Here’s how it works:
- Heat source: The back boiler unit is connected to the heat source, which is usually a stove or fireplace. The heat generated by the fire is used to heat the water in the back boiler.
- Water circulation: The hot water produced by the back boiler unit is circulated around the property through a network of pipes. This provides central heating to the property.
- Hot water supply: The hot water produced by the back boiler unit is also stored in a hot water cylinder. This provides a supply of hot water for domestic use.
- Control system: The back boiler unit is controlled by a thermostat, which regulates the temperature of the water in the back boiler. This ensures that the water is heated to the desired temperature and that the system is operating efficiently.
One important thing to note is that back boilers require that the hot water or central heating system be able to disperse all of the heat captured from the fire, otherwise boiling or overheating of the water can occur. This is why back boilers are strictly regulated in Ireland and the UK following explosions relating to incorrectly serviced or installed back boilers.
Overall, a back boiler unit is a reliable and efficient way to provide heating and hot water to a property. However, it is important to ensure that the system is installed and serviced correctly to avoid any safety issues.
Types of Back Boiler Units
If you are considering installing a back boiler unit, it’s important to know the different types available. Two main types of back boilers exist: gas and electric back boilers.
Gas Back Boiler Units
Gas back boilers are the most common type of back boiler unit. They are powered by natural gas and use a fire to heat up water, which is then pumped to your radiators and taps. Gas back boilers are generally more efficient than electric back boilers, making them a popular choice among homeowners.
One of the benefits of gas back boilers is that they are relatively easy to maintain. They require an annual service to ensure they are working correctly, but this is a simple process that can be carried out by a Gas Safe registered engineer.
Electric Back Boiler Units
Electric back boilers use electricity to heat up water, which is then circulated around your home. They are typically less efficient than gas back boilers, but they do have some benefits. For example, they are often cheaper to install than gas back boilers, and they do not require a flue or chimney.
Electric back boilers are also easier to install in homes where gas is not available. However, they are generally more expensive to run than gas back boilers, so they may not be the best choice for everyone.
When choosing a back boiler unit, it’s important to consider your individual needs and circumstances. If you have access to gas, a gas back boiler may be the best choice for you. However, if you do not have access to gas or you are looking for a cheaper installation, an electric back boiler may be a better option.
Install a Carbon Monoxide Detector
It is important to install a carbon monoxide detector when a back boiler unit is present. Carbon monoxide is a colourless, odourless gas that can be deadly if it builds up in your home. A carbon monoxide detector will alert you to any dangerous levels of gas.
Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance is essential to ensure that your back boiler unit is working safely and efficiently. It is important to have your unit serviced by a professional at least once a year. This will help to identify any potential issues before they become serious problems.
Overall, installing a back boiler unit can be a great way to heat your home and save money on your energy bills. However, it is important to ensure that the installation is carried out correctly and that the unit is maintained properly to avoid any potential hazards.
Maintenance and Safety of Back Boiler Units
Maintaining and ensuring the safety of your back boiler unit is essential to ensure its longevity and prevent any potential hazards. Here are some tips to help you keep your back boiler unit in top condition:
Regular Inspection
It is important to inspect your back boiler unit regularly to ensure that it is working correctly and efficiently. Check for any signs of wear and tear, leaks, or damage to the pipes or valves. If you notice any issues, it is important to address them promptly to prevent further damage.
Cleaning
Regular cleaning is essential to prevent the build-up of soot and other debris in the chimney or flue. This build-up can cause blockages, which can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning or even a fire. It is recommended to have your back boiler unit cleaned by a professional at least once a year.
Safety Features
Your back boiler unit should have safety features such as a safety valve and a pressure relief valve. These valves are designed to relieve pressure in the event of a malfunction, preventing damage to the unit and potential hazards. It is important to ensure that these safety features are working correctly and are regularly inspected.
Professional Maintenance
It is recommended to have your back boiler unit serviced by a professional at least once a year. A professional can inspect and clean the unit, ensuring that it is working efficiently and safely. They can also identify any potential issues and address them promptly.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your back boiler unit is working efficiently and safely, providing you with reliable heating for years to come.
Disadvantages of Back Boiler Units
- Safety concerns: Back boiler units can pose safety concerns if they are not installed or maintained properly. They require that the hot water or central heating system be able to disperse all of the heat captured from the fire, otherwise boiling or overheating of the water can occur. It is important to have your back boiler unit serviced regularly by a qualified professional to ensure that it is operating safely and efficiently.
- Limited heat output: Back boiler units may not be suitable for larger homes or for homes that require a high level of heating output. They are typically designed to provide heat to one or two rooms, which means that they may not be sufficient for larger homes.
- Less efficient than modern heating systems: Back boiler units are not as efficient as modern heating systems, such as combi boilers. This means that they may not be the most cost-effective option in the long term, as they can be less efficient and more expensive to operate over time.
Overall, back boiler units can be a good option for some homes, but it’s important to weigh the advantages and disadvantages before making a decision. It’s also important to have your back boiler unit installed and maintained by a qualified professional to ensure that it is operating safely and efficiently.
Environmental Impact of Back Boiler Units
If you have a back boiler unit, it is important to understand its environmental impact. Back boilers are outdated heating systems that were commonly installed in the 1960s and 1970s. They are typically found behind fireplaces and are connected to a hot water tank. While they may have been efficient at the time, they are now considered inefficient and environmentally harmful.
Carbon Emissions
Back boiler units are known to emit high levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) into the atmosphere. This is because they burn solid fuels such as coal, wood, and peat. These fuels are not only expensive but also contribute to air pollution and climate change. In fact, according to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), solid fuel combustion is responsible for over 38% of the UK’s particulate matter emissions.
Energy Efficiency
Back boiler units are not energy-efficient and have a low efficiency rating. This means that they use more fuel to produce the same amount of heat as a modern heating system. In addition, they require frequent maintenance and repairs, which can be costly and time-consuming.
Waste Disposal
Back boiler units produce ash and other waste products that need to be disposed of properly. If not disposed of properly, these waste products can be harmful to the environment. It is important to follow local regulations and guidelines when disposing of back boiler waste.
Upgrading to a Modern Heating System
Upgrading to a modern heating system can greatly reduce your carbon footprint and save you money on energy bills. Modern heating systems are designed to be energy-efficient and environmentally friendly. They also require less maintenance and repairs than back boiler units.
In conclusion, if you have a back boiler unit, it is important to understand its environmental impact. Back boiler units are outdated and inefficient heating systems that emit high levels of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. Upgrading to a modern heating system can greatly reduce your carbon footprint and save you money on energy bills.
