Combi gas boilers are a popular choice for heating and hot water in Ireland, offering several benefits and advantages. These compact and efficient units provide instant hot water on demand, making them a preferred option for many homeowners. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the details of combi gas boilers in Ireland, covering their benefits, types, installation considerations, and technical specifications.
Benefits of Combi Gas Boilers in Ireland
Cost-Effective Heating
Natural gas combi boilers are the most popular choice in Ireland due to their lower running costs compared to electricity, oil, or LPG. According to the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI), the average annual running cost for a natural gas combi boiler is around €800, while the cost for an oil-fired boiler can be as high as €1,500 per year.
Exceptional Energy Efficiency
Combi boilers are designed to be highly efficient, converting up to 98% of the natural gas they consume into usable heat. This high efficiency helps to reduce energy bills and lower the carbon footprint of your home. The latest A-rated combi boilers can achieve efficiency levels of up to 98%, making them a more environmentally-friendly heating solution.
Compact and Space-Saving Design
Combi boilers are compact in size and do not require bulky hot water storage cylinders or tanks, making them an ideal choice for homes with limited space. The average dimensions of a combi boiler are around 700mm (height) x 400mm (width) x 300mm (depth), allowing for easy installation in tight spaces such as under stairs or in airing cupboards.
Instant Hot Water on Demand
One of the key benefits of combi boilers is their ability to provide instant hot water on demand, without the need for a separate water cylinder or tank. This eliminates the waiting time associated with traditional boiler systems and ensures a constant supply of hot water for your household.
Separate Heating Zones
Modern combi boilers often feature the ability to control separate heating zones within your home. This allows you to set different temperatures for different rooms or areas, providing greater flexibility and energy efficiency in your heating system.
App-Controlled Options
Some combi boilers on the Irish market are compatible with heating apps, enabling you to control and monitor your heating and hot water remotely using your smartphone, tablet, or computer. This feature provides added convenience and allows you to optimize your energy usage.
Types of Combi Boilers in Ireland
Natural Gas Combi Boilers
Natural gas combi boilers are the most common type in Ireland, with an estimated 80% market share. These boilers are fueled by the natural gas supplied through the national gas network, offering lower running costs compared to other fuel types.
Oil Combi Boilers
Oil combi boilers are less prevalent in Ireland, with a market share of around 15%. These boilers are typically found in homes not connected to the natural gas network and have higher installation and running costs compared to natural gas models.
LPG Combi Boilers
LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) combi boilers are suitable for homes that are not on the national gas network. These boilers use a stored LPG supply and have running costs that are higher than natural gas combi boilers.
Electric Combi Boilers
Electric combi boilers use electrical elements to heat water, making them less efficient and more expensive to run than gas-powered models. However, they can be a viable option for homes without access to the natural gas network.
Installation Considerations
Consult a Registered Installer
It is essential to always consult a Registered Gas Installer (RGI) for the installation of natural gas combi boilers and an OFTEC (Oil Firing Technical Association) registered installer for oil combi boiler installations. These professionals have the necessary expertise and certifications to ensure the safe and proper installation of your new heating system.
SEAI Grants
Homeowners of homes built before 2006 may be eligible for grants from the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) for boiler replacements. These grants can help offset the initial cost of upgrading to a more energy-efficient combi boiler.
Phasing Out of Oil and Gas Combi Boilers
It’s important to note that the Irish government has announced plans to phase out the installation of gas combi boilers in new builds from 2025 onwards. Additionally, oil combi boilers are already banned in new builds, as part of the country’s efforts to transition towards more sustainable heating solutions.
Technical Specifications and Prices
Price Range
The average cost of a combi boiler in Ireland ranges from €1,100 to €3,000, depending on the brand, model, and features. Factors such as the boiler’s output capacity, energy efficiency rating, and additional smart controls can significantly impact the final price.
Popular Models
Some of the most popular combi boiler models in Ireland include:
- Worcester Bosch 30kW Combi Boiler: Prices start from around €2,450
- Ideal Logic 30kW Combi Boiler: Prices start from around €2,200
- Glow-worm Combi 30kW Combi Boiler: Prices start from around €2,100
These models offer a range of features, such as high energy efficiency, built-in smart controls, and compact dimensions, making them a popular choice among Irish homeowners.
References
- Selectra. (2023). What Is a Combi Boiler and How Do They Work? Retrieved from https://selectra.ie/energy/guides/boilers/combi-boiler
- Precision Heating. (n.d.). Combi Boilers Ireland – Gas combi boilers provide both heating and hot water on demand. Retrieved from https://precisionheating.ie/combi-boilers/
- Duffy Heating. (n.d.). Combi Gas Boiler Installation In Dublin – Duffy Heating. Retrieved from https://www.duffyheating.ie/combi-gas-boilers/
- Gasworks.ie. (n.d.). Best Combi Boilers 2024 – Dublin – Gasworks.ie. Retrieved from https://www.gasworks.ie/services/combi-boilers/
- Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI). (2023). Boiler Replacement Grants. Retrieved from https://www.seai.ie/grants/home-energy-grants/boiler-and-heating-controls-grant/
- Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications. (2022). Climate Action Plan 2023. Retrieved from https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/b5a9c-climate-action-plan-2023/