What are Boiler Efficiency Ratings? SEDBUK Explained

Many of you may have seen the image on the left either on your own boiler or whilst out shopping for a new boiler. This is the SEDBUK scale of energy efficiency – which measures the level of boiler efficiency.

When boilers burn gas to produce heat they eject waste gases, such as CO2. These waste gases then eject significant heat to the atmosphere instead of into the house. This is energy which has been paid for by the homeowner which they aren’t getting due to their boiler efficiency.

Efficient boilers produce less CO2 than non efficient boilers which not only helps reduce the effect on the environment but saves its owner money heating their home, making boiler efficiency ratings vital to a persons purchase.

How does SEDBUK rate boiler efficiency?

SEDBUK which stands for “seasonal efficiency of a domestic boiler in the UK” was developed by the UK governments energy efficiency programme to rate boiler efficiency on how much fuel is converted to heat. The rating is calculated using:

• Typical domestic usage patterns
• The UK climate
• Boiler type
• Ignition
• Fuel used
• Internal store size

Boiler efficiency under the SEDBUK scale is then rated from A through to G. Boilers which are rated A are deemed to be over 90% efficient which then carries an energy saving recommended logo.

It is important for gas fitters to understand these ratings and how they will affect the consumer. As such we have included a module on this in our fast track gas engineer courses as well as in our Part L energy efficiency course.

If you would like to find out about any of these courses in more detail feel free to give us a call on the number at the top of the page or fill out a form to the right and we will get back to you.