Most UK homes are connected to the electricity and gas supply, so running appliances with these energy sources is simple and straightforward. However, for those who live in more rural locations or without access to gas, oil-fired boilers should be given consideration.
Alternative, renewable energy sources are also growing in popularity and may have an impact on your choice of boiler and heating system.
Mains gas
In the UK, mains gas is the most common fuel type, supplied to over 85% of UK homes (more than 21 million homes) and is the most popular fuel for heating and cooking. A gas-fired boiler requires a constant supply and although gas is not environmentally friendly, as a non-renewable fossil fuel, it is the cleanest type of fuel creating less than half of the CO2 emissions of oil.
Oil
Approximately 15% of households in Great Britain rely on non-gas fuels for heating. Currently used by an estimated 4.3 million UK households, oil is the most common alternative for properties that are not connected to the gas network. Unlike gas combi-boilers, oil fired boilers tend to be non-condensing, are floor standing, and therefore may require more space. They also tend to offer a lower hot water flow rate in comparison.
Biomass
An alternative eco-friendlier choice, biomass boilers are powered by a renewable fuel source. Typically fuelled by wood pellets or chips they can have a reduced environmental impact and provide cost saving on energy bills. By converting agricultural, industrial, and domestic waste into solid, liquid and gas fuel, biomass generates power at a reduced cost with minimal environmental impact.
Alternative energy
Other alternative approaches to boiler energy sources that are seeing increasing popularity are heat pumps and fuel cell technology which are increasingly compatible with modern boiler designs.
Future energy sources
Also worthy of consideration is whether a new boiler is designed with future energy sources in mind. Some advanced gas boilers are now made to be compatible with solar energy, whilst oil systems can be equipped to be partially run-on bio-oil mixes, helping to make them future proof and more environmentally friendly.
