Author: NBS Admin

Unfortunately, this isn’t a yes or no question. It’s more of a ‘yes with an asterisk’. Proper maintenance with boiler spare parts can allow a boiler to last well past 20 years with minor losses in efficiency. There are other factors which can either increase or decrease the lifespan of your boiler though. 

In this blog, we’ll cover how boiler replacement parts can improve the longevity of household heating systems, how boilers lose efficiency, and why this is important. 

 

What Impacts a Boiler’s Lifespan?

The consensus is residential boilers last between 15-20 years. However, this can easily be extended with a little knowledge and application. This is because the lifespan of a boiler is conditional on its environment and how well it’s being maintained. For example, boiler overuse or prolonged periods of inactivity can lead to degradation. Here are some other factors to be aware of: 

Equipment Quality 

The boiler manufacturing process directly impacts how long vital system parts will last. Equipment created using low-quality materials is more likely to require replacement with heating spares. While a boiler containing high-quality equipment will cost more upfront, it’s likely to need less work long-term. 

Environmental Conditions 

A boiler can have years taken off its lifespan by extreme environmental conditions. This includes high levels of heat, moisture, dust, and debris. In these environments boilers are subjected to higher levels of stress, resulting in equipment wear. Environmental boiler damage can be identified by discolouration, warping or corrosion.  

Introducing a controlled environment can extend a boiler’s lifespan. This can be done by installing weatherproofing measures and performing regular cleaning.   

Frequency of Boiler Maintenance 

Every boiler, regardless of quality, needs maintenance checks to keep it running efficiency. One of the main reasons for this is limescale build-up, which occurs naturally over time. Conducting regular boiler maintenance allows potential issues to be identified ahead of time. This helps prevent major boiler malfunctions, while also working to ensure safe use. 

Maintenance that can be performed by an owner includes: 

• Calibration 
• Water treatment and topping up 
• Cleaning  
• Inspection and testing of various parts(valves, gaskets, surfaces) 

Boiler Upgrades 

An old boiler can have its lifespan extended with the addition of modern upgrades. Up to date heating spares are a cost-effective option compared to getting a brand-new boiler installed. Parts that improve running reduce the risk of wear and tear. 

NBS offers a range of boiler replacement parts for both old and new models. Our big list of brands means with us you’ll be able to upgrade your heating system no matter what. 

 

The Importance of Boiler Efficiency 

Loss of boiler efficiency can cost you a ton in bills. For a high efficiency, look for an operational percentage of between roughly 85-95%.  

All the factors discussed above, when addressed, can improve boiler efficiency and drive costs down. Retrofitting your boiler with newer parts can make it more environmentally friendly through lower energy consumption. 

 

Conclusion 

If you’re looking for boiler spare parts UK, you can’t do better than NBS. We deliver all over the UK, EU, and the rest of the world with next day delivery available. 

We also offer a refurbishment service to bring your old boiler parts back up to factory specification. Contact us today. 

You might have heard of a boiler filling loop but may not know just how important it is, and the headaches it can save, when it comes to repressurising your boiler. That’s why we’ve put together this guide covering what a filling loop is, the different types, and how to use them. Read on to get started… 

Defining a boiler filling loop 

A boiler filling loop is a hose that enables a connection between the boiler, central heating system and mains water supply. Depending on the type of boiler you have you will need either an internal or external filling loop. Once all components are linked, water can be added to the system to bring it up to the desired pressure. There will usually be two valves on either side of the hose to allow access when they are open and to cut it off when they are closed. This ensures that you can repressurise the boiler to the exact level you need it, without the risk of topping it up too much as you can easily shut off the water supply. 

How to use your filling loop

It might seem daunting if you’ve never used it before but using your filling loop effectively is very straightforward. Before you get started, it’s important to ensure that the valves are in the ‘off’ position. If the boiler has only been installed quite recently, your filling loop might be attached using blank caps. 

• First, fix the filling loop firmly into place on both ends 
• Rotate one valve so that it’s the same as the direction of the pipe 
• Slowly turn the other filling loop valve so water starts coming through the water mains and into the system 
• As water comes through, check the pressure gauge display, it should be rising as the pressure increases 
• When the gauge reaches 1.4 bar, turn both the valves so the supply is closed off 

Whilst it would seem more convenient to keep the filling loop attached to the boiler or leave it next to it, you’re not allowed to do this. Regulations state that when it’s not in use, the filling loop has to be completely disconnected from the boiler. Plus, if you did leave it connected, you’re running the risk of significant damage to the filling loop. 

In addition, depending on the location of your boiler in the home, if someone knocks into it accidentally it could allow water to start trickling into the system again and cause the boiler pressure to rise too high – resulting in more problems and potential damage. If you find that you’re using your filling loop frequently to repressurise, it’s likely that you have a problem somewhere in the boiler system that needs addressing. 

Types of boiler filling loops 

Depending on what will best suit your needs, there are different types of filling loops that can be used to repressurise your system. 

Internal filling loop 

Internal filling loops can often be found within the boiler. It is also commonly referred to as a combi boiler filling loop, as it used in this type of system. One valve on the loop connects to the boiler and the other to the mains water supply. This is because they both have different roles with one valve controlling water flow and the other stopping water from going back into the mains (called the double check valve). If you’re repressurising your boiler for the first time and need to know where the loop is, you can access it behind a flap or hatch. There should be an area for the filling loop key to be inserted here. 

External filling loop 

An external filling loop also has two control valves, one for water flow and the other for the main lines. The key difference between this loop and the internal one is given away by the name. It is fitted to the outside of the boiler instead of inside it. To repressurise the boiler you will need to look underneath the unit for the valve connection. An external loop connects the mains water supply to the central heating system. 

What if your filling loop isn’t working? 

The filling loop is essential in keeping the boiler operating at peak performance for as long as possible. If the loop is not functioning correctly, it is probable that there is an issue with the boiler that needs to be addressed. Alternatively, it could be that one of the valves has become stuck and is not allowing the water to pass through. 

If the valve is stuck and you think you can free it, do so carefully as to not cause any damage to the loop. In the event that the boiler is the source of the issue, get in touch with a Gas Safe engineer to take a look at it and diagnose the problem and go from there.  

Conclusion 

If you’re having trouble with your filling loop and need a boiler filling loop replacement, NBS can help. We provide high quality new and refurbished boiler replacement parts at affordable prices. Explore our online shop to find the exact boiler loop you need for your system to get it back up and running quickly and efficiently whilst saving you money. Contact us if you have any questions. 

If you’ve got your heating on but aren’t feeling the benefits of the heat in your home, there can be a few reasons for this. One thing to check if you know your boiler is working as it should be is the radiators. It might be that your radiators feel nice and warm on the top but ice cold on the bottom. When this happens, you’ll want to resolve the issue as soon as possible – not only so that your house will feel warm again and you can prevent wasted heat, but also to save you money on your energy bills. See how to fix radiators that are cold at the bottom in this guide. 

First, what causes radiators to be cold at the bottom?

The most common cause of radiators being cold at the bottom when they’re switched on is a build-up of sludge. When sludge starts to gather within the radiator and in its internal elements it causes a blockage so water can’t pass through and move round the system as it should. Due to the weight of the sludge it typically sinks to the bottom of the radiator where the entry and exit points are, hence, why it will be hot at the top and cold at the bottom. 

Why does sludge form in radiators? 

Radiators and their associated pipework are made from metallic components, normally either iron or steel. The persistent contact with water as it passes through the system results in natural debris forming from stagnant water and compounds like the iron oxide magnetite. As these accumulate alongside other mineral deposits like limescale they start to create the sludge and ultimately block the water flow. 

How to fix radiators that are cold at the bottom

A blockage in your radiators caused by sludge isn’t going to solve itself. In fact, the longer you leave it the worse the problem will become as you are giving the sludge more time to form and block more of the system. Not only that but it can eventually lead to issues with your boiler if your radiators aren’t fixed and the blockage cleared. So, if you suspect your radiators are blocked don’t ignore it, or you could end up paying out for heating replacement parts for your boiler and radiators. 

There are a few ways to fix your radiator issue and if you’re experienced in DIY, you can probably do this yourself. If not, you’ll want to contact a heating engineer. In any case the below options will give you an insight into how the blockage can be removed and your system can be working effectively again. 

Chemical flush 

A chemical flush combines strong chemicals together which you can introduce to your radiator to break down the sludge blockade. Similar to when you have a blocked drain and pour chemical cleaner down it. The chemicals usually take around an hour to get through the radiator system, but it can be left there for up to week if you think it hasn’t fully rectified the issue. This type of flush is best done by a plumber or heating engineer. 

Powerflush the radiators 

A powerflush involves pushing highly pressurised water through the heating system and radiators. The idea behind this is that it will apply a significantly stronger force to the blockage than the normal water flow and break it down so the water can pass through. If you have more than one radiator that is cold at the bottom, then a powerflush will probably be your best option. Again, you will likely need a professional plumber for this as a powerflush can lead to a lot of mess if it isn’t done correctly. 

Manual flush/bleed the radiators 

Bleeding and manually flushing the radiator is the main way you can get rid of a blockage yourself and will likely be the best option if you only have one that is cold at the bottom. If you aren’t too sure how to manually flush your radiator the steps below will give you a quick overview: 

• Make sure your heating is fully switched off and you leave enough time for the radiator to get cold. 
• Put an old towel or sheet down underneath the radiator to protect your floor and a bowl to collect the water during the process. 
• Use the bleeding key to open the valve at the top of the radiator so air can flow through, and water can drain out. 
• When the water has all drained out, undo the valves, and take the radiator off its brackets. 
• Take the radiator outside and flush it with your garden hose until clean water comes out of the other side. 
• Bring the radiator back in and put it on its brackets, re-attaching all the necessary components. Have your bleeding key ready to close the valve when water starts to escape. 
• If you have a pressurised system that won’t repressurise itself, you might need to use the loop and add extra water to build up more pressure to the right level. 

Conclusion 

Hopefully this guide has given you the information you need to be able to effectively fix your radiators when they’re cold at the bottom – whether you’re doing it yourself or using a professional plumber or engineer. If you’re having problems with your boiler or heating system and need a specific part to fix the issue, NBS can help. We provide high quality new and refurbished boiler parts at affordable prices from a wide range of brands. Find the boiler spare you need from our online shop today. 

Radiator heating is one of the most common types of heating, making up many traditional central heating systems. They are a reliable and efficient way of keeping your property warm. Knowing how they work will be beneficial if you ever have a problem with your radiators as you can get a better understanding of the steps required to fix it. Also, you can get a good insight into why your home heats up in the way that it does, which could help you become more energy efficient – lowering your carbon footprint and heating bills. 

How radiators work 

Radiators rely on a process called convection which involves heat transfer within the system. So, when the water is heated, the air around it is heated up as well by convection. The now hot air is then transferred around the room as the air circulates. Usually, radiators have pipes that connect them to the central heating system and hot water flows through them to access the radiator and spread the heat. From there the hot water in the radiator heats up an area using convection. 

It’s important to note that the hot water doesn’t stay in the radiator, it moves through the radiator and out so it can move to the next radiator and so on. As it passes through the system it starts to cool down. When it gets back to the boiler, it is then reheated, and the process starts again for as long as the central heating is on. 

All the radiators in the system are linked in a chain, meaning the radiator closest to the boiler will have the water pass through when it’s at its hottest. Whereas the last radiator in the chain will have the coolest water, which isn’t ideal when you want to heat all the rooms in your home to the same temperature. Therefore, a process known as balancing is used to help all radiators operate at a similar temperature. Balancing restricts water flow into the radiator and is achieved by turning a valve called the ‘lockshield valve’. This can restrict or open the flow of water into the radiator depending on your needs. 

Do gas heated radiators work differently to electric ones?

Gas heaters work in the traditional convection method detailed above, but electric radiators are very different and as a result, are a lot more energy efficient. Instead of depending on water to heat the radiator and the air within in to circulate heat into a room, electric radiator systems typically have a non-porous, ceramic core containing up to 20 heat plates. 

This means that the radiator can heat up more quickly through the heating element that is fitted in the core. Not only that but heat can also be better retained in the core, so the radiator can keep emitting heat for a long time after the system has been switched off. 

Electric radiators can reach maximum heat in an impressive five minutes and stay warm for a while after because the heat isn’t required to travel through a network of radiators. Testing has shown that when the temperature outside is 6 degrees, an electric radiator only needs to be on a third of the time to keep a room at a temperature of 21 degrees.  

Conclusion

We hope this article has helped you get a better understanding of how radiators work. If you’re having a problem with your boiler or central heating and need UK boiler parts to have it fixed, NBS can help. We stock a wide range of new and refurbished boiler parts and heating spares from many different manufacturers – so you can find the exact part for your needs. Explore our online shop today and contact us if you have any questions. 

 

A diverter valve is an important part of modern combi boiler design. Knowing how this valve works in a Vaillant boiler will give you a better understanding of what you will need to do if you encounter a problem with it. That’s why in this blog we’ll be exploring how a Vaillant diverter valve works, how you’ll know if it’s not working as it should be, and the steps you should take to resolve the problem and get your boiler up and running effectively as quickly as possible. 

What is a Vaillant diverter valve and how does it work? 

The role of a diverter valve in a Vaillant, and any other type of boiler, is direct where the hot water goes in your heating system – whether that be the radiators, taps or showers. It is only found in combi boiler systems not conventional ones as the latter stores hot water in a storage cylinder. So, the valve is not required like it is in a combi system that heats water on demand. 

If you turn on a tap while your central heating is on, the diverter valve will prioritise sending water to the tap until it’s turned off. This is a prime example of how diverter valves work. They send the water to where it needs to go as and when you require it. When the water is being directed to the heating system it will go to the primary heat exchanger. If it’s needed for your hot water supply, it is diverted to the plate heat exchanger.

How can you tell if there’s a problem with your diverter valve? 

The diverter valve in a Vaillant combi boiler is known for being somewhat of a weak point in a generally good system. Its design centres around a pin that moves in and out to activate a small pin via a small motor. The O ring seal that surrounds the pin has a tendency to leak, which results in pressure dropping and problems for homeowners. 

This type of diverter valve is part of a combi boilers with an indirect design, and it’s not just Vaillant that has used this approach. In fact, most combi boilers available today are based on an indirect design, meaning they have diverter valves and like Vaillant’s are prone to leaking. You will know that your diverter valve is faulty if you experience one of the problems below: 

• You have access to hot water, but your radiators are cold – your valve might not be working properly if water is getting to your taps but not your central heating. 
• There’s no hot water coming from your taps – another indicator of a problem with your diverter valve is that you’re only getting lukewarm water from your taps. If this is the case, it’s likely that the valve is stuck and only a small amount of hot water is getting through to your taps. 
• The hot water only comes on when the central heating is on – sometimes a problem with the diverter valve doesn’t get discovered until the warmer months when you’re not using your central heating. If hot water is only coming out of the taps when the boiler is on, your valve is likely not diverting water properly. 

What to do if you suspect your diverter valve is faulty

If you have a problem with your diverter valve, you will need a qualified engineer to either repair or replace the part depending on the age of your boiler and the severity of the fault. In the case of older Vaillant boilers it might not be worthwhile repairing the valve and instead just buying a new one. However, if your boiler system is still relatively young you could buy a Vaillant diverter valve repair kit from NBS. We specialise in providing high quality new and refurbished boiler parts at affordable prices. Find the diverter valve product you need from our online store today. 

Any problem you have with your boiler is frustrating, but the good news is there are some faults that are fairly common with boilers, especially older ones so they can be straightforward to fix by a professional engineer or even by you. We’ve put together this list of the most reported boiler faults so you will know the correct steps to take if you encounter any of these issues and have them resolved, quickly, efficiently, and without breaking the bank. 

 

Boiler kettling

This fault is so named because the noises it makes resemble that of a boiling kettle. If you start hearing sounds like this it is likely because sludge or limescale has started to build up in parts of the boiler, which slows down the flowing water and results in the system heating up too much. Kettling is more of a common problem in locations with hard water, but it can affect soft water areas too. If your boiler is kettling then you will need to contact an engineer to come and check the system. The engineer will probably start by flushing the system to get rid of the debris that has developed, which should get the boiler back up and running effectively. 

 

No heating or hot water

Being left without heating or hot water is a big issue that will need to be fixed as quickly as possible. There isn’t one root cause for why you wouldn’t be getting heating or hot water but there are multiple possibilities that could explain why your boiler isn’t providing heating or hot water including: 

• The boiler isn’t getting fuel or water, check with your suppliers in case there has been an outage in the area or if the connection has been switched off unintentionally. 
• Low boiler pressure will lead the boiler to switch off, so you won’t get heating or hot water. 
• Older boiler models have a pilot light, if that goes out and stops working then the boiler won’t be able to fire up. 

A Gas Safe engineer will be able to find the cause of why you don’t have heating or hot water and get your boiler working. However, make sure you check the boiler first before contacting an engineer as if it is a pressure issue you can sort that yourself. See the next fault in this list to learn more about low boiler pressure. 

 

Low boiler pressure

If your boiler pressure is too low, it will typically switch off and display an error code on the front of the unit. Normal boiler pressure will be somewhere between 1 and 2, so if you can see that the gauge has dropped to less than 1 you will know that it is too low. A sudden drop in boiler pressure can be caused by a potential leak in the system or if you have bled your radiators recently, the pressure can be affected. You can top up the boiler yourself but if you notice that the pressure is continuously dropping then you should look out for a possible leak and contact and engineer. 

 

Boiler keeps turning itself off

Like with other faults in this list, there can be a number of reasons why your boiler might turn itself off. Some of the most common causes are: 

• Problems with the thermostat 
• Debris build up in the system 
• Low boiler pressure 
• Too much air in the boiler system 

Make sure you check your thermostat and boiler pressure and ensure your radiators have been bled. If everything appears normal, then contact an engineer to come and check the boiler. 

 

Abnormal noises from the boiler

Aside from the normal noises you would hear when your boiler is switched on and working which you have likely become accustomed to, if you are hearing unusual noises coming from your unit it could mean there is an issue. These noises can range from banging to gurgling or whistling and each one will indicate what is wrong with the system. 

Gurgling suggests there is trapped air within the system, banging is likely to be caused by loose pipework or internal parts or potentially a sign that the pump is starting to fail and whistling like kettling is when there is a build-up of sludge and debris on the heat exchanger. Re-pressurising the boiler can help with some of the noises you might hear and alter the settings if the boiler is vibrating or humming. 

 

Conclusion: Where can I find boiler spares near me?

These are just a few examples of common boiler faults there are other problems that your boiler might encounter throughout its lifespan. If you need replacement parts for your boiler you can find the exact make and model you need at NBS. We provide high quality and affordable national boiler spares to help your boiler get back up and running without costing a fortune, and using refurbished spare parts is better for the environment too.

When you have a problem with your boiler it can be tempting to simply start looking for a new one. Sometimes this can be the right decision depending on your circumstances, such as the age of the boiler, and if you have had the problem more than once. However, it can be the case that we give up too easily with boilers and choose to replace a perfectly good boiler that only requires a small repair to start working effectively. So, how will you know whether your boiler is worth replacing or if you should buy a new one? That’s what we will be exploring in this guide. 

 

What to consider when your boiler has a problem

If your boiler is still relatively young, the first thing you will want to find out when it starts having a problem is if it is still under warranty from the manufacturer. Several manufacturers have warranties that last ten years or longer so it is always worth find out if your boiler is covered as it will likely cover the cost of having the boiler repaired or at least the price of the replacement parts you might need to purchase even if it doesn’t cover the labour costs. 

The other main consideration when your boiler encounters an issue is if it is a small enough problem that you could resolve yourself. Sometimes boilers encounter minor faults that can be solved on a DIY basis. With so many comprehensive videos and guides available online to fix certain boiler problems, it is always worth checking to see if it is something you can do yourself before calling out an engineer and potentially giving up on the boiler. 

 

Common boiler issues and fixes you could do yourself

• Check your boiler pressure – this is one of the most common causes of a boiler breakdown. When your pressure is too high or too low your boiler will lock down and won’t start working until you repressurise it. Getting your boiler pressure back to within its normal range is something that you can do yourself. 
• Try bleeding your radiators – when air gets into the boiler and heating system it can result in your radiators not heating up as much as they should be. Bleeding the radiators can resolve this. 
• Look out for leaks – if your boiler pressure is dropping consistently even after you have repressurised it, you may have a leak. Even though you would need a Gas Safe engineer to fix the leak if you found one, it can be helpful if you can locate it our rule out the possibility of a leak if you can’t find one. 
• Make sure your condensate pipe isn’t frozen – cold weather and low temperatures can lead frost to form on your condensate pipe, which will prevent your boiler from working properly. If you experience this issue, simply pouring some warm water on the pipe should be enough to fix the problem. 

 

Are you replacing your boiler for the right reasons?

As we’ve seen above, some boiler problems can easily be fixed by you, and if your boiler is still under warranty then it will be much easier to have it repaired when required. With that in mind, it’s important to ask yourself whether replacing your boiler is truly the right option, see some of the factors below to help you make the decision. 

 

Reliability and efficiency

Good quality boilers whether they are older or newer are designed and built with longevity in mind. This means that even if they do encounter a problem and breakdown, in many cases it will be easy to fix. A lot of boilers might start needing repairs or new parts after roughly 10-15 years, but the age of the boiler is not a reason to automatically rush into replacing it as soon as you have a problem. However, older boilers will have been manufactured with older technology and parts, which likely means they will be less efficient. Therefore, deciding to replace your boiler could be more likely to be based on seeking higher levels of efficiency rather than how reliable your current boiler is. 

 

Plans for home improvements

If you have recently bought a new property or have reached a stage in your home where you want to make some improvements and renovations, often this will naturally converge with wanting to replace your boiler. Home improvements take time, so if you know it might be a while before you get started or for progress to be made you may want to wait it out with your current boiler until the other elements of your work are finished. If you want to make your boiler last as long as possible, you can buy high quality and affordable boiler spare parts online and use a trusted installer to fit them. 

 

Availability of parts

You might have been advised to replace your boiler based on the fact that the parts required to repair it aren’t available anymore. However, at NBS we specialise in providing refurbished boiler parts for many manufacturers that are affordable and in full working order. So, if you are basing your decision to replace your boiler on the parts you need to fix your current unit no longer being available from the manufacturer be sure to search online through our website as we might have the exact part you’re looking for, saving you thousands on a boiler replacement that you don’t need. 

 

Conclusion

Going back to the main question of this article, in some cases it definitely can be worth repairing your boiler. However, if it is ultimately going to be more expensive for you to continuously carry out repairs on an old system then it won’t be worthwhile to keep doing so. It’s important to always weigh up all your options and not just rush out and buy a new boiler when you have one small problem.  

If you’re looking for brand-specific well-priced boiler replacement parts you can find them from us at NBS. Explore our range of parts today. 

Energy efficiency is extremely important in UK households today, not only because saving energy will reduce your carbon footprint and therefore the negative impact on the environment, but also in saving you a significant amount of money on your yearly heating bills. With the effects of the coronavirus pandemic still being felt in the economy and price increases across the board affecting everyone, saving money on bills is a top priority for many, and a combi boiler could help you do just that. 

 

Is a combi boiler really more energy efficient?

Combination boilers are designed to heat water on demand with no need for a water storage tank. Their modern manufacture will mean they are generally more energy efficient, but due to them not having a hot water storage cylinder, they will be less suitable for bigger homes and families. Therefore, it is important to consider your water demands within your household as a combi boiler may not be able to cope with higher usage, making it not as energy efficient. However, if you live in a smaller home with only one bathroom and don’t have high demands for water, a combi boiler will be a great way to improve your energy efficiency and save you money on your bills. 

 

How can you make the most of an energy efficient boiler?

Whilst your efficiency will likely improve with the installation of a combi boiler, as long as you meet the criteria that will ensure the boiler can perform at its best, there are other things you can do to ensure you are getting maximum energy efficiency out of your boiler.  

 

Only use your central heating when you need it

With the option to set automatic timers for your boiler to come on at a specific time, it’s easy and very tempting to plan for your heating to come on before you get home. However, this is just energy waste that you don’t need if you’re not there to benefit from the heat being put out. By only having the heating on when you absolutely need it, you can ensure you aren’t wasting energy and money unnecessarily. Whereas you don’t need to worry about turning your hot water off as combi boilers only provide hot water on demand, so it can be kept on all the time without wasting energy. 

 

Ensure your radiators aren’t covered or blocked

This might seem like a small thing but if your radiators are covered or blocked by furniture their heat output can’t effectively reach all areas of the room and home. As a result, you might need to keep your heating on for longer to ensure the whole property is heated which will cost you more money and waste energy that can easily be resolved. 

 

Use a smart thermostat

Boiler and heating technology has come a long way over the years and utilising what is available can help ensure you are being as energy efficient as possible. Thermostats offer more control over your central heating as they can influence the flow temperature of the boiler and make sure it isn’t using more energy than is required. Its smart learning capabilities also allow it to understand your heating habits and encourage you to be more efficient to reduce your bills and carbon footprint. 

 

Stay on top of your boiler services

Annual boiler servicing isn’t very cheap, but it is extremely important to keep on top of it. This is because ultimately you will save money in the long term on potential repairs and check that your boiler is always performing at the highest possible efficiency. As your boiler ages, the efficiency might start to decrease which will mean your bills and carbon emissions will start to creep up, but a regular boiler service will help keep the boiler in good working condition and help to last as long as possible. 

 

Correctly set your boiler controls

Combi boilers have controls that give you the ability to set the temperature of the water in your central heating and domestic water supply. Typically for the majority of units, the recommended temperature for heating is 75C and 60C for hot water. Having more control over your boiler controls and settings will help you discover the settings that give you the maximum energy efficiency for your home and water usage. 

 

Conclusion: Where can I find UK boiler parts?

To answer the main question of this guide, yes, in the right circumstances having a combi boiler can improve your energy efficiency. However, don’t just rely on having the boiler, make the most of other tips that will help you truly maximise your heating efficiency. 

If you’re looking for specific combi boiler spare parts, then NBS has got you covered. We are committed to providing high quality and affordable heating spares and parts to help homeowners make effective repairs to their boiler when they experience a problem without breaking the bank. Explore our wide range of boiler parts today.  

There are many different boiler brands and models on the market today and buying a new boiler isn’t cheap so you will want to make sure you get one that will last and is the highest possible quality. If you can complete the first step of narrowing down your choice of brands that should help to make it slightly easier to select the right model and type of boiler for you and your home. We have put together this list of the best boiler brands available in 2023 to help provide you with the top-rated options so you can find the ideal boiler to suit your home and preferences. 

 

What to consider when buying a new boiler

There isn’t going to be one boiler that is right for every home, there are a number of different factors you will want to think about that will help you decide on the right boiler brand and model to suit you. These factors include: 

• Fuel type – keep in mind that the government intends to put restrictions on certain fuel type boilers in an effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and carbon footprint to become more environmentally friendly. Therefore, it could be beneficial to look mainly at electric boilers rather than oil or gas. 
• Warranty offered by the brand – a longer warranty period will give you more protection and peace of mind should anything go wrong with your boiler after purchase. If a brand is offering an extended warranty, it is often a good sign that they have confidence in their boilers which is a useful thing to look out for when shopping for a new boiler. 
• Output size – the output size you will need for your new boiler will be based on how big your home is and how much hot water your household uses. You will want to make sure you know the accurate output size you need as too small and the boiler will struggle to meet your usage demands, but too big and you could waste money on energy you’re not using. 
• Reviews and reputation – no matter what type of product you’re shopping for you should always check reviews and boilers are no different. A brand with a large number of positive reviews and a good reputation is the best place to start if you’re looking for a boiler. 
• Efficiency rating – the higher the efficiency rating is on a boiler the more money you can save on your heating bills as you will be wasting less energy. 
• Price range of the boilers – you will have a budget in mind for how much you want to spend on your boiler, but it is important to remember that going for the absolute cheapest option might not be the best choice long term. You want a boiler that is going to be cost effective in the long term and highly efficient in performance, ensuring it lasts as long as possible. Therefore, considering the other factors in this list will help you filter your boiler selection until you find the one that fits your requirements and your wallet. 

 

What are the best boiler brands to buy from in 2023?

Based on some of the factors above, we have done a lot of the hard work for you and compiled this list of the best boiler brands in 2023. 

 

Worcester Bosch

Even if you aren’t very familiar with boiler models and brands you have probably heard of Worcester Bosch. They are one of the most well-known and best rated boiler brands and with good reason. Worcester is renowned for their wide range of boilers that are built with efficiency and longevity in mind. The company offers lengthy warranties and guarantees on all their products as well as impressive customer service, ensuring you are fully happy with your boiler and following up after installation. 

So, you can have full reassurance that if you do have a problem, Worcester is committed to fixing it for you. Their boilers are competitively priced and are proving to be a consistent hit with customers and reviewers with more than one of their combi boiler units being awarded the Which? Best Buy Award for 10 years in a row. 

 

Viessman

Viessman is a German brand that has recently started moving into the UK market with its well designed and engineered boiler models. German manufacturing is known for being highly robust, reliable, and long-lasting, which is exactly what you will get with a Viessman boiler. Like with Worcester, certain Viessman boiler models have been the recipient of the Which? Best Buy award, with regular praise for their technical brilliance and quality parts used. Boasting a simple, modern, easy to use design, and a long 10-year warranty, you can’t go far wrong if you opt for a Viessman boiler for your home. 

 

Ideal

Ideal is a British boiler brand with many years in the industry, offering three types of boilers: combi, system, and heat-only. They are particularly well-known for their reliable and high-quality combi boilers that are ideal (no pun intended) for smaller homes and fewer bathrooms. Warranties for Ideal boilers range between 7 and 12 years and often sit somewhere in the middle when it comes to price. The company is often considered to be more premium, but their models can often be quite affordable and rival the other brands on this list. An Ideal boiler won’t be right for every home, but you can’t argue with their consistency and reliability to produce good quality boilers. 

 

Vaillant

Keeping the trend of UK manufacturers going we move onto Vaillant. This brand had a bit of a shaky start in the past with not always using the best quality parts for their boilers, leading to many homeowners facing issues as their units aged. However, the company has moved on from that and has become a popular option for those looking for energy efficient combi boilers for smaller homes with its ecoTEC range. 

It is often considered to be a good all-rounder brand with warranties of between 2 and 10 years available and a few standout features that set them apart from competitors. For example, the smart feature that monitors your hot water and heating use, lowering its capacity during times when you don’t need a lot of heat. 

 

BAXI

BAXI tends to be thought of as more of a budget-friendly brand, coming in on the cheaper end of the scale. However, that doesn’t take away from the quality of its boiler which can certainly rival that of some of the other brands in this list. The company has a very wide range of boilers to choose from alongside reasonable warranty lengths and favourable customer service. If you don’t want to go all out and pay the big prices for your boiler but still want good quality, BAXI is certainly a brand you will want to look into. 

 

Conclusion

We hope you have found this guide into the top 5 best boiler brands useful. If you’re currently having a problem with your boiler and need parts to have it repaired NBS can help. As experienced and knowledgeable boiler spare parts suppliers we are committed to providing customers with high quality and affordable refurbished boiler parts. Find the exact parts you need for your boiler from us today. 

When you experience issues with your boiler, before jumping to the conclusion that it is a serious problem and you’ll need a costly engineer to fix it, it is often worth trying to repressurise your Vaillant boiler. Older Vaillant boilers in particular can sometimes just stop working and repressurising it is enough to get it working efficiently again. In this article we will be exploring what the pressure on your boiler should be and the steps involved in repressurising it back to within normal parameters. 

Checking Vaillant boiler pressure 

For many people it is often easier to not check the pressure on the boiler as it isn’t as simple as checking the gauge straight away. This is because Vaillant doesn’t include numbers on their manual pressure gauges, so for many homeowners it is hard to tell where the pressure actually sits. In order to get an exact number, you must press the buttons below the digital display and navigate to the right place. 

Like with pretty much all boilers, the normal pressure range should be at around 1.5 bar when the system is off and fully cold. However, you don’t need to worry about increasing the pressure unless it drops to below 1 bar. If the pressure increases to above 1.5 bar when the system is off, it is likely that your boiler pressure is too high and will need to be decreased. We’ll just be focusing on low boiler pressure for now though. 

How to repressurise a Vaillant boiler 

If you’re unsure about how to repressurise your specific boiler model, you will probably need to consult your manual. However, generally, by following the below steps you can get an understanding of what you need to do to increase the pressure of your boiler. 

1. Make sure the boiler has been turned off for long enough that the system is fully cooled. 

1. Find the boiler filling loop, it is normally located under the boiler. One end of the loop will have a handle valve and the other an isolation valve due it being the link between the main water supply and central heating. In some cases, the filling loop can leak which results in the pressure dropping. 

1. Check that the loop is securely fastened to prevent the risk of a leak and turn the isolation valve until it lines up with the pipe. 

1. Rotate the handle valve to allow the water to enter the system and monitor until the pressure levels get back to where they should be. 

1. Close both the valves securely to ensure no more water can pass through. 

1. Reset the boiler if needed and turn it on to check if the system is working. 

  

Some boilers won’t have a filling loop and instead use a key for repressurising the boiler. The steps for using a key rather than a filling loop remain fairly similar except the filling key is put into a keyhole and unlocked to allow the valve to be rotated and water to flow through. 

Your Vaillant boiler should not need to be repressurised often so if you notice the pressure dropping to below 1 bar consistently there is likely to be a deeper issue causing it. For example, a leak is a big cause of low pressure as water is escaping from somewhere. You will need to contact a Gas Sage engineer at this stage to locate and repair the leak before it has the chance to cause any further damage. 

Conclusion 

Knowing how to repressurise your Vaillant boiler is extremely important as it could help your boiler get back up and running efficiently without you having to call out a professional. Buying boiler parts new from manufacturers can quickly become expensive. As boiler spare parts suppliers, NBS provide high-quality refurbished boiler components at affordable prices. Find the parts you need for your boiler today and don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions.