What is a Heat Only Boiler? - Ideal Heat Solutions

Home Blog What is a Heat Only Boiler?

An electric boiler is a type of boiler that uses electricity to heat water. It is a popular choice for homes and businesses that do not have access to natural gas or propane. Electric boilers are also a good option for people who want to reduce their carbon footprint.

Electric boilers work by passing electricity through a heating element, which heats the water. The heated water is then circulated through a system of pipes to heat the home or business. Electric boilers are typically more efficient than traditional boilers that use gas or oil, and they produce no emissions.

Here are the basic steps of how an electric boiler works:

Electricity is passed through a heating element.
The heating element heats the water.
The heated water is circulated through a system of pipes.
The hot water heats the home or business.
The cooled water returns to the boiler and the process repeats.

Electric boilers are a reliable and efficient way to heat your home or business. They are also a good option for people who want to reduce their carbon footprint. However, they can be more expensive to operate than boilers that use gas or oil.

Advantages and disadvantages of an electric boiler

Electric boilers are a type of boiler that uses electricity to heat water. They are a popular choice for homes and businesses because they are relatively quiet, clean, and efficient. However, they can be more expensive to operate than other types of boilers, such as gas boilers.

Here are some of the advantages of electric boilers:

Quiet: Electric boilers are very quiet, making them a good choice for homes with young children or people who are sensitive to noise.
Clean: Electric boilers do not produce any emissions, making them a good choice for people who are concerned about air quality.
Efficient: Electric boilers are very efficient, meaning that they use less energy to heat water than other types of boilers.
Compact: Electric boilers are typically smaller and lighter than other types of boilers, making them easier to install and maintain.

Here are some of the disadvantages of electric boilers:

Expensive to operate: Electric boilers can be more expensive to operate than other types of boilers, such as gas boilers. This is because the cost of electricity is typically higher than the cost of gas.
Not suitable for all homes: Electric boilers are not suitable for all homes. They require a dedicated electrical supply, which may not be available in some homes.
Not as powerful as other types of boilers: Electric boilers are not as powerful as other types of boilers, such as gas boilers. This means that they may not be suitable for homes with large hot water demands.

Overall, electric boilers are a good choice for homes and businesses that are looking for a quiet, clean, and efficient way to heat water. However, they can be more expensive to operate than other types of boilers.

Is an electric boiler right for me?

Whether an electric boiler is right for you depends on your individual needs and circumstances. Electric boilers are a good option if you have a small home or flat with low heating demands. They are also a good option if you live in an area with a high cost of gas or oil. However, electric boilers can be more expensive to run than gas or oil boilers, so you need to factor this in when making your decision.

How much do electric boilers cost?

The cost of electric boilers in the UK can vary depending on the size and efficiency of the boiler, as well as the brand and model. However, in general, you can expect to pay between £1,000 and £3,000 for an electric boiler.

Here is a breakdown of the average costs of electric boilers in the UK:

Small electric boilers (2-4kW): £1,000-£1,500
Medium electric boilers (5-9kW): £1,500-£2,500
Large electric boilers (10kW+): £2,500-£3,000

It is important to note that these are just average prices and the actual cost of an electric boiler may be higher or lower. It is also important to factor in the cost of installation, which can add another £500-£1,000 to the total cost.

If you are considering an electric boiler, it is important to compare prices from different suppliers before making a decision. You should also make sure that the boiler is Energy Saving Trust (EST) approved, as this will ensure that it is efficient and meets the latest standards.

How long do electric boilers last?

Electric boilers in the UK typically last for 15-25 years. However, the lifespan of an electric boiler can vary depending on a number of factors, including:

The quality of the boiler: A high-quality boiler will typically last longer than a low-quality boiler.
The maintenance of the boiler: A boiler that is properly maintained will last longer than a boiler that is not maintained.
The frequency of use: A boiler that is used frequently will wear out faster than a boiler that is used less frequently.
The climate: Boilers in colder climates will wear out faster than boilers in warmer climates.

If you are concerned about the lifespan of your electric boiler, you can ask a qualified installer for advice. They can assess your needs and recommend a boiler that is likely to last for a long time.

Here are some tips for extending the lifespan of your electric boiler:

Have your boiler serviced regularly by a qualified installer.
Drain the boiler every year to remove sediment.
Flush the boiler every two years to remove scale.
Replace the heating elements every five years.
Replace the expansion tank every 10 years.

By following these tips, you can help to ensure that your electric boiler lasts for many years to come.

What size electric boiler do I need?

The size of electric boiler you need in the UK will depend on the size of your home and your hot water needs. As a general rule, you should allow 1.5kW for every radiator in your home. So, if you have eight radiators, you will need a boiler with a minimum output of 12kW.

You also need to consider your hot water needs. If you have a family of four and you like to take long baths, you will need a boiler with a higher output. A good rule of thumb is to allow 3kW for every person in your household. So, a family of four will need a boiler with a minimum output of 12kW.

It is important to consult with a qualified heating engineer to determine the exact size of electric boiler you need for your home. They will be able to assess your needs and recommend the best boiler for your specific circumstances.

Here are some additional tips for choosing the right size electric boiler for your home:

Oversizing your boiler: Oversizing your boiler can lead to wasted energy and higher energy bills. It is important to choose a boiler that is the correct size for your needs.
Undersizing your boiler: Undersizing your boiler can lead to discomfort for your family and guests. It is important to choose a boiler that is large enough to meet your heating and hot water needs.
Considering future growth: If you plan on expanding your family or home in the future, you will need to choose a boiler that is large enough to accommodate your future needs.

By following these tips, you can choose the right size electric boiler for your home and avoid costly mistakes.

Electric boiler hire

Electric mobile boiler

Boiler maintenance

Do electric boilers need radiators?

No, electric boilers do not need radiators in the UK. Electric boilers can be used to heat underfloor heating systems, which can provide a more comfortable and even heat than traditional radiators. Electric boilers can also be used to heat the air in a room directly, without the need for radiators.
However, if you already have radiators in your home, you can still use an electric boiler to heat them. Electric boilers are a good option for homes that are not connected to the gas grid, as they do not require a flue. They are also a good option for homes that are looking to reduce their carbon emissions.
If you are considering installing an electric boiler in your home, it is important to speak to a qualified installer to get advice on the best system for your needs.

Do I need a hot water tank with an electric boiler?

No, you do not need a hot water tank with an electric boiler in the UK. Electric boilers can heat water directly, so there is no need for a hot water tank. This can save space and money, as hot water tanks can be bulky and expensive to install.
However, there are some situations where you may want to have a hot water tank with an electric boiler. For example, if you have a large family or if you use a lot of hot water, you may find that an electric boiler cannot keep up with demand. In this case, a hot water tank can provide additional hot water storage.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to have a hot water tank with an electric boiler is up to you. If you are looking for a space-saving and energy-efficient option, then an electric boiler without a hot water tank is a good choice. However, if you have a large family or use a lot of hot water, you may want to consider having a hot water tank as well.

Are electric boilers worth it?

Electric boilers are not as common in the UK as gas boilers, but they can be a good option for some homes. They are more efficient than older models, and they can be a good choice for homes that are not connected to the gas grid. However, they can be more expensive to run than gas boilers, and they may not be suitable for all homes.
Here are some of the pros and cons of electric boilers in the UK:
Pros:
Efficient: Electric boilers are more efficient than older models, and they can save you money on your energy bills.
No gas supply needed: Electric boilers can be a good option for homes that are not connected to the gas grid.
Quiet: Electric boilers are quiet, which can be important if you live in a noisy area or if you have young children or babies.
No flue: Electric boilers do not have a flue, which can save space.
Cons:
Expensive to run: Electric boilers can be more expensive to run than gas boilers.
Not suitable for all homes: Electric boilers may not be suitable for all homes, especially those with a large hot water demand.
Not as common: Electric boilers are not as common as gas boilers, so it may be difficult to find a qualified installer.
Overall, electric boilers can be a good option for some homes in the UK. They are efficient and quiet, and they do not require a gas supply. However, they can be more expensive to run than gas boilers, and they may not be suitable for all homes.