Are Glow Worm Boilers Any Good? The 119 New Answer

Our take on the Glow-worm Ultimate₃ boiler

The Glow-worm Ultimate₃ boiler is a highly reliable boiler at a lower price and is backed by an extended 5 year warranty. It offers space for larger apartments with up to 2 bathrooms. Combo boilers are easy to install and operate which means they are often preferred by households as they are cheaper to fix if something goes wrong.

But the regular and system models also have advantages. – mainly that they are better suited to supply hot water to households with several bathrooms.

A quality kettle made in Britain

The Glow-worm Ultimate₃ boiler is designed and manufactured in Derbyshire. If you are looking for a reliable and affordable name in boiler production, engineered in the UK, this could be the ideal model for you.

While Glow-worm is better known as a budget boiler brand, it shares its manufacturing base with its parent company, Vaillant. For this reason, it benefits from Vaillant’s innovations and manufacturing expertise.

reduce household emissions

The threat of climate change and the need to reduce emissions worries many people. It should also be a factor when considering boiler modernization. Energy efficiency is something to look out for and the Glow-worm Ultimate₃ boiler is very environmentally friendly, with an ErP rating of ‘A’ and operating at 89% efficiency. While there are more efficient water heaters on the market, this one is still among the top tier of eco-friendly products.

Innovative energy solutions

The Glow-worm Ultimate₃ boiler has a built-in filling circuit for easy maintenance and a modulating Grundfos pump for reduced energy consumption.

control with ease

A wide range of options are available for a Glow-worm Ultimate₃ boiler – from chimneys and accessories. Additionally, you can control the heating system via the LCD display with an easy-to-use interface, or invest in Glow-worm’s MiGo app-based smart control so you can turn your heating on and off from anywhere using your smartphone.

Wide availability of parts

Firefly boiler parts are available from plumbing retailers and wholesalers across the UK.

Our gas boilers are reliable and energy efficient, reducing your fuel consumption, energy bills and carbon footprint. We pride ourselves on making innovative appliances that are highly fuel efficient – choose a glow-worm heating and hot water boiler you can count on.

Choosing the right boiler for your home is an important decision. You need one that fits your needs, stands the test of time and doesn’t break the bank. Whether you opt for a combi system or a regular boiler, your new glow-worm device is good for the environment and your bank account.

Find out more about our full range of hot water and central heating boilers here, including our popular energy combi boiler. Start by choosing one of the following boiler types. If you need assistance or have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us online or call our friendly team on 0345 602 2922.

The UK has relied on gas and oil based central heating since the 1930’s. Today, tackling climate change is a national priority, which means changing the way we heat our homes. In 2025, gas boilers will be replaced by renewable heating systems in all new buildings. This is part of the government’s effort to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. But what does this mean for you and what are the alternatives to a traditional central heating system?

What is the “Boiler Ban”?

In 2019, the CCC (Committee on Climate Change) announced that a third of the UK’s greenhouse gas emissions come from high-carbon heating systems. And with an estimated 85% of UK homes still using gas and oil boilers, the government has decided to act. The Future Home Standard will come into effect in 2025 and will require all newly built homes to adopt low-carbon heating alternatives.

Regardless of whether you are planning to buy a new home or not, it is still worth considering going for a more renewable heating solution. Not only will this help to decarbonize the UK, but it could also save you money on your heating bills in the long run.

Regardless of whether you are considering buying a new home or not, it is still worth considering a more environmentally friendly heating solution. Not only does it help the planet, but it also saves you money on your heating bills.

What alternatives are there to gas central heating?

With government encouraging everyone to go green, switching from a traditional central heating system to a green alternative has never been easier. There are many options to choose from, such as E.g.: heat pumps, heating networks, hydrogen boilers and electric radiators. However, some are more viable than others.

Heat pumps Heat networks Hydrogen boilers Electric radiators

heat pumps

Heat pumps absorb natural heat to heat your homes and water. There are three main types of heat pumps: ground source heat pumps, air to water heat pumps and air to air heat pumps. A geothermal heat pump takes heat from the ground through pipes laid under your garden. An air-to-water pump circulates heat through your central heating system, while air-to-air pumps require a warm circulation system, i. H. Ducts, vents and grilles.

Advantages Disadvantages Can be installed in many different building types Requires an entire network of pipes Uses renewable energy Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) program closed to new applicants Have a long service life Expensive installation fees Provides lower heating temperatures than normal central heating Can be lower efficient in extreme weather Air -Air pumps do not heat water

Best Suited For: Homeowners who prefer slow heat release, have a fully functioning air circulation system (air-to-water), or have a large yard (ground source). Conclusion: heat pumps are an option for those who have the money to install them. As of March 31, 2022, government initiatives such as the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) are closed to new domestic applicants. Without such programs and subsidies, the likelihood of heat pumps dominating the renewable boiler room is relatively small. In addition, heat pumps are complicated to install, which can create logistical problems depending on where you live and the size of your garden.

heat networks

Heat networks take heat from a central source, such as a combined heat and power plant, and distribute it in the form of hot water or steam through underground pipes. As networks grow and connect, they become more efficient. If you want to reduce your heating bills, heating networks need to be installed on a larger scale to be most effective.

Advantages Disadvantages Could reduce heating costs if built on a larger scale A new technology which means it is still in a ‘trial and error’ phase Has already been successfully implemented in Denmark and some areas of the UK The Fan and the compressor might make noise You will save space as you don’t need a boiler. Can only be used in urban areas. Heat can easily be lost to the ground

Best Suited For: Homeowners living in eligible urban areas, close to heat networks installed in dedicated facilities and water sources. Conclusion: Whilst the Government has already invested £320m in heat networks, many years of research are still needed before it becomes widespread. As they are only effective in urban areas, this heating system shuts out a large part of the UK. Due to these factors, the feasibility of widespread use of heating networks by 2025 is not yet known.

hydrogen boiler

Hydrogen boilers look almost identical to gas boilers and are installed in almost the same way. When converting gas distribution networks, the boiler is connected to the electricity network and supplied with hydrogen or natural gas to heat your home. Familiarity with a hydrogen boiler will likely ease the transition for many homeowners and would not be too costly to install, but hydrogen itself presents certain challenges.

Advantages Disadvantages Small difference between gas and hydrogen boilers 100% hydrogen-ready boilers are not yet available Newer gas boilers could continue to be used, reducing installation costs The cost of hydrogen production is high Does not produce carbon monoxide or carbon dioxide More flammable than gas Difficult to store and transport

Best Suited For: Homeowners with newer gas boilers (known as 20% hydrogen capable/combi boilers) or new build only if the government is willing to introduce this alternative. * For more information, see Pros and Cons Verdict: Research projects such as HyDeploy and Hy4Heat are currently underway by the government to prepare for a community trial. Depending on how the trial goes, hydrogen heating could be an option for many by 2025. However, limitations imposed by storage and transport systems should not be underestimated. However, hydrogen is more flammable than gas and its flames cannot be seen with the naked eye, so certain safety and maintenance protocols must be put in place. Due to its small volume, it can be easily vented to the atmosphere – it has to be stored in high-pressure tanks and transported via pipelines and special trucks. These challenges must be addressed before hydrogen boilers reach the mainstream.

Electric radiators

Electric heaters generate heat through a combination of convection and radiation. This means that they heat the surrounding air as well as people and surfaces directly and thus heat quickly, effectively and sustainably. They are also 100% efficient at point of use as every watt drawn from the wall is converted into usable heat, making them an ideal alternative to gas central heating.

Advantages Disadvantages 100% efficient on site. Electricity tariffs are slightly more expensive than gas tariffs. Warms by convection and radiation and ensures long-lasting warmth. You may need to take some measures to prevent your system from overloading. Can be combined with a renewable energy source for 100% carbon-free heating. Most radiators can be fitted in a do-it-yourself style, eliminating the need for installation costs. Low maintenance. You don’t need annual checks. Many are equipped with precise digital thermostats for precise temperature control. Available with a range of energy saving features such as weekly scheduling, adaptive start and open window detection. Some electric radiators come with intuitive smart controls like WiFi, Bluetooth and voice control. Increased controllability and temperature management. Can be individually controlled, allowing you to set a different temperature and heating schedule for each room in the house.

Best for: Homeowners who want to heat up a room quickly but also want to emit long-lasting heat. Especially perfect for those who don’t want to spend a lot on time-consuming and expensive installation fees. Conclusion: With 2.2 million homes already powered by electric heating in the UK, this renewable alternative is likely to dominate the boiler room for years to come. Incredibly versatile, electric radiators are suitable for any home and many of them are DIY friendly, allowing you to avoid expensive installation costs. Advanced features like intelligent controls, weekly programming and precise temperature management mean electric radiators offer a more efficient way to control your heating, ultimately reducing running costs and energy bills.

When it comes to the future of heating, electric radiators remain the most popular and ideal alternative to gas central heating. So why wait until 2025? Make the switch today with Electric Radiators Direct.

Key messages From 2025, gas boilers in new builds will be replaced with renewable heating systems to help the UK achieve zero carbon emissions by 2050.

Heat pumps can be placed in many different types of property, but they are complicated and expensive to install.

Heat networks are a new technology that still needs a lot of research – they only work in urban areas, so many homeowners are excluded.

Hydrogen boilers look and install similarly to gas boilers, but are expensive to run and harbor a variety of safety and logistical issues.

Electric radiators ensure efficient, long-lasting heat and are equipped with energy-saving functions as standard. They don’t require expensive or disruptive installation, as many are DIY-friendly, making them the most convenient heating alternative on the market.

Sources:

https://www.theccc.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Infographic-The-future-of-heating-in-UK-buildings-Committee-on-Climate-Change.pdf

https://www.theccc.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/5CB-Infographic-FINAL-.pdf

https://www.theecoexperts.co.uk/boilers/uk-gas-boiler-ban

https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/696273/HNIP_What_is_a_heat_network.pdf

Vaillant or fireflies: boiler comparison

By: Rob Wells

Vaillant and Glow-worm are both part of the Vaillant Group, Europe’s second largest heating manufacturer, but when it comes to choosing the right manufacturer for you, their boiler ranges offer different benefits.

While Vaillant is one of the leading manufacturers thanks to the supply of highly efficient units, glow-worm boilers tend to be much more affordable without compromising on reliability.

So, Vaillant or fireflies? We’ve put them side by side to give you peace of mind that you’re investing in the right boiler manufacturer for you.

Do you need a new boiler? Get FREE quotes for a replacement boiler today

Vaillant against fireflies

Let’s get into why it’s worth thinking about Vaillant and Glow-worm:

Vaillant boiler

Vaillant Germany is often found on lists of the best boiler manufacturers and is rated positively by both homeowners and heating engineers.

What often differentiates Vaillant boilers from their competitors is that they are equipped with a stainless steel heat exchanger. This compares to other manufacturers who commonly use aluminum, which doesn’t offer as many benefits as stainless steel:

Extended boiler life

More efficient

Less prone to failure

In addition to the stainless steel heat exchanger, Vaillant appliances have a Quiet Mark certification, which means you won’t be disturbed while your home is being heated.

firefly cauldron

With the Energy range of boilers, Glow-worm wants to climb up the list of the best boiler manufacturers and they certainly make a good case. When it comes to reliability and efficiency you won’t find much better than Glow-worm when it comes to budget friendly units and the Ultimate range comes with a Grundfos pump – an industry leading central heating pump.

Vaillant and Glowworm boiler series

Vaillant and Glow-worm produce gas-fired combination, normal and system boilers. This means that no matter your home’s heating needs, these brands are likely to have a perfect solution.

combi boiler

A combination unit is ideal for smaller households with 1-2 bathrooms and a rather moderate need for heating and hot water. Vaillant and Glow-worm have a range of units to choose from, but their leading ranges are ecoTEC Pro and Energy.

Boiler area Central heating output Hot water output Efficiency Vaillant ecoTEC Plus combination program ecoTEC Plus 825 20.4 kW 25.4 kW 94% ecoTEC Plus 832 25.7 kW 31.8 kW 94% ecoTEC Plus 835 32.2 kW 35 kW 94% ecoTEC Plus 838 30.1 kW 38.7 kW 94 % Glowworm Energy combi program Energy 25 18 kW 25.7 kW 94 % Energy 30 25 kW 30.6 kW 94 % Energy 35 25 kW 35.7 kW 94 %

Normal cauldrons

Basic or boiler only is the best heating system for larger homes and is often found in older properties. They can meet higher heating and hot water needs because the water is stored in a storage tank, but this means that unlike combi boilers, they cannot provide hot water on demand.

Vaillant offers the widest range of output values, but there’s not much to separate all boilers in terms of efficiency, and the Glow-worm Energy range offers the longest guarantee.

Boiler range Performance Efficiency Vaillant control boiler range ecoTEC Plus 412 12.7 kW 94 % ecoTEC Plus 415 15.1 kW 94 % ecoTEC Plus 418 18.3 kW 94 % ecoTEC Plus 424 24.6 kW 94 % ecoTEC Plus 430 30.5 kW 94 % ecoTEC Plus 435 35.1 kW 94 % Firefly boiler series Energy 12r 12 kW 94% Energy 15r 15 kW 94% Energy 18r 18 kW 94% Energy 25r 25 kW 94% Energy 30r 30 kW 94%

system boiler

In terms of how they work, system boilers are somewhere between combi and normal boilers, and with Vaillant or Glowworms, we consider the Vaillant ecoTEC Plus system boiler to be the best option thanks to the stainless steel heat exchanger, various outputs and high performance. Efficiency rating.

Boiler range Output Efficiency Vaillant system boiler ecoTEC Plus 612 12.2 kW 94% ecoTEC Plus 615 15.4 kW 94% ecoTEC Plus 618 18.5 kW 94% ecoTEC Plus 624 24.6 kW 94% ecoTEC Plus 630 30.5 kW 94% ecoTEC Plus 630 30.5 kW 94% ecoTEC Plus 637 37.6 kW 94% Firefly boiler rows Energy 12 s 12 kW 94% Energy 15 s 15 kW 94% Energy 18 s 18 kW 94% Energy 25 s 25 kW 94% Energy 30s 30kW 94%

With our boiler comparison tool you can compare all Vaillant and Glow-worm boilers. When you have found the right boiler for your home, fill out our simple online form and receive free installation quotes from heating contractors in your area.

Do you need a new boiler? Get FREE quotes for a replacement boiler today.

Vaillant against fireflies

efficiency

Overall, Vaillant boilers are the most efficient.

Their ecoTEC Pro combi boilers, ecoFIT Pure normal boilers and ecoTEC Plus system boilers are all more efficient than the ranges offered by Glow-worm – although there isn’t much between the system boilers in terms of efficiency class.

When comparing Vaillant and Glowworm boilers, it is important to look out for units with a stainless steel heat exchanger. A heat exchanger made of stainless steel instead of the usual aluminum offers higher efficiency, a longer service life and is much less prone to failure.

Price

Price is the determining factor in many decisions and when it comes to a new boiler, it can make one more attractive than another. Among these manufacturers, Vaillant has the highest quality boilers, which inevitably come at a higher price point, but both brands have more budget-friendly options available.

Vaillant costs Firefly costs Combi £875 – £1,600 £550 – £1,580 Regular £790 – £1,500 £713 – £870 System £590 – £1,500 £725 – £860

warranty

Vaillant boilers are covered by a standard 2-5 year warranty, which can be extended to 7-10 years when installed by a Vaillant Advance Installer. Meanwhile, Glow-worm has a standard warranty of 2 to 7 years, depending on the model installed. The longest longest warranty of the two comes from Glow-worm, who have a whopping 15 years available when installed by a Glow-worm Club Energy installer.

Both warranties cover parts and labor and only cover failure that is the result of an issue during the manufacturing process. If it turns out that the problem was caused by contaminated water, you could be charged for the plumber’s visit.

Which brand takes the crown?

The Vaillant Group is known for supplying its customers with highly efficient and reliable heating systems. Vaillant and Glow-worm are part of the Vaillant Group and both keep the promises of their parent company.

If your ultimate decision boils down to finding a cauldron that fits a fairly tight budget, then Glow-worm is the manufacturer for you. They have several units that you won’t have to break the bank for, and they often come with a long warranty.

Nevertheless, we have to give Vaillant the win. After all, they are a leading boiler manufacturer for a reason. Their boilers are highly efficient which helps keep your energy costs to a minimum, they are fitted with state of the art stainless steel heat exchangers and you are covered by a comprehensive warranty period.

Whether you are looking to install a Vaillant or Glow-worm boiler, Boiler Guide allows you to get free installation quotes from Gas Safe registered engineers in your area. After you have taken a moment to fill out our online form to tell us about the work you are going to do, you will be contacted by up to 3 heating contractors, each with a quote.

Comparing multiple quotes is the best way to increase your chances of finding the cheapest price for a gas boiler installation.

How old is my boiler?

By: Becky McKay

An old boiler is an unreliable boiler.

So knowing how old your boiler is makes it easier for you to know when it’s time for a new one. Eventually, when it gets too old, you end up paying too much to heat your house. And nobody wants that.

In this article we will help you to find out the age of your boiler.

Do you need a new boiler? Get FREE quotes for a replacement boiler today

How old is my boiler?

You can determine the age of a boiler by looking at the serial number.

A boiler’s serial number looks like a long bar code and is stuck somewhere on the outside of the boiler. It contains a series of numbers and letters that reveal the age of the cauldron. So you have to know what you are looking for.

Find out the age of boilers made by:

If your kettle is not made by one of the above manufacturers, visit the Product Character Database. You need to know the fuel type, boiler type, manufacturer and model. You can find all of this in the user manual for your boiler.

How old is my Baxi boiler?

You can find the serial number for most Baxi kettles by opening the drop down box on the front of the kettle. If you give Baxi this serial number, they can tell you when it was made.

Every Baxi kettle manufactured after 2003 will have a serial number like the one below.

How old is my Ideal boiler?

You can find out the age of your Ideal boiler from the benchmark certificate in the operating instructions. If you can’t find this you may need to call Ideal.

For anyone who owns an Ideal Logic, Classic or Mini, they all have a serial number that reveals the date of manufacture.

ideal logic

How you find out the date now depends on whether your boiler was manufactured before or after 2015.

Look at the last 6 digits. Boilers manufactured before 2015 display YY/MM/DD. Those manufactured from 2015 read DD/MM/YY. The serial number shown is for a boiler manufactured on August 8th, 2018.

Ideal classic

To determine the year of manufacture of an Ideal Classic boiler, look at the third group of numbers. In this case it is “0612”. The first two numbers are the year, the second two are the week.

So the serial number below would be found on a boiler manufactured in the 12th week of 2006.

Ideal mini

Ideal mini kettles have a shorter serial number than most kettles. The last 4 digits indicate the year of manufacture. So for the serial number below this is “0308”. The “03” is the month and the “08” is the year, meaning this kettle was manufactured in March 2008.

How old is my Vaillant boiler?

Like many manufacturers, Vaillant boilers have a serial number. You can find this somewhere on the outside of your cauldron.

The third and fourth digits of the serial number reveal the year of manufacture. A Vaillant boiler with the serial number below would therefore have been manufactured in 2001.

Do you need a new boiler? Get FREE quotes for a replacement boiler today

How old is my Worcester Bosch boiler?

Finding out the age of a Worcester Bosch kettle is not that easy. That’s because their serial numbers can only be read by professionals. So if you are unsure of the age of your Worcester Bosch boiler you will need to contact the support team.

Signs of an aging boiler

If you’re not sure how old your boiler is, look out for these signs that it’s showing its age.

Rising heating costs

Have you noticed your heating bills have skyrocketed? Then one possible reason is your boiler. As your boiler ages, it uses more fuel and increases your bills.

Your home is not that warm

When your boiler just won’t do its job anymore, it’s time to move on. A new boiler will heat your house much more effectively.

Regular breakdowns

Regular boiler failures mean regular repair bills. These can quickly add up and investing in a new boiler quickly pays off.

Hard to find parts

If a heating engineer has difficulty finding a new part for your boiler, it is clearly a very old heating system. This is a sign that you should start looking for a new boiler.

Is an old boiler less efficient?

The efficiency of the boiler decreases with age.

A boiler that is 94% efficient today may only be around 80% efficient in 10 years. This means that as the boiler ages, it will use more fuel and your heating bill will increase. One of the reasons it’s a good idea to replace your boiler after around 10 years.

Wait even longer to replace your boiler and efficiency can drop to 60%.

Think it’s time for a boiler swap? Check out the 10 signs you need a new boiler.

Tips to keep your cauldron young

When you invest in a new boiler, you want it to heat your home for as many years as possible. Luckily, there are a few things you can do to keep it running reliably and efficiently for years to come.

make it wait

What better way to take care of your boiler than arranging an annual boiler service. Getting a Gas Safe registered technician to check this will keep it running. It is also important that your boiler is serviced every year in order for the guarantee to remain valid.

So find a technician to service your boiler today. Your boiler will thank you.

Bleed the radiator

Over time, air can enter the heating system.

This might not sound like a big deal, but it can actually prevent hot water from getting around the radiators. So the boiler works harder to heat the room to the desired temperature. And that means burning more fuel. By bleeding the radiators, you let the air out.

You know it’s time to bleed a radiator when the top is much cooler than the bottom.

Don’t ignore strange noises

Gurgling, popping and whistling are signs of a problem with your boiler.

If you hear any of these noises, don’t ignore them. The longer you put off repairing your boiler, the worse the fault is likely to get. Therefore, at the first sign of a problem, contact a Gas Safe registered technician.

Learn more at Find the cause of a noisy boiler.

When should I replace my boiler?

8 years after installation is a good time to start thinking about a new boiler. But most engineers recommend replacement after 10 years.

You can ask your heating engineer how many years you think you can get out of your boiler at the next service.

Kessel timeline

Like pet years, cauldron years are very different from human years.

0 years old 1 year – already in school 3 years – moody teenage phase 4 years – high school diploma 5 years – nest flight 6 years – working 9 to 5 7 years – getting married 8 years – parents will be 10 years – retirement 15 years – feeling frail

How much does it cost to replace my old boiler?

The cost of replacing a boiler depends on the type of boiler to be installed.

You have three options: combination, system or regular. Most likely, your next boiler will directly replace the current one – for example, a station wagon for a station wagon. If your hot water needs have changed since your last boiler was installed, it’s worth considering a different boiler type.

Boiler type Average boiler price Typical installation cost Combi £500 – £2,000 £500 – £1,000 System £500 – £2,500 £500 – £1,000 Regular £500 – £2,750 £500 – £1,000

System and normal boilers must be installed next to a hot water tank. A cylinder stores hot water until you turn on a hot water faucet. So if you need spare storage alongside a boiler, this will be added to your final bill. You can get a more complete picture of the costs in new boiler prices and replacement costs.

To keep installation costs down, we strongly recommend getting quotes from at least 3 different companies.

Get free quotes from up to 3 boiler installers in your area here on Boiler Guide. Simply fill out our simple online form and we’ll take care of the rest. You will be contacted shortly by local installers to arrange your quote. It couldn’t be easier.

Combi boilers are one of the most popular types of boilers on the market. Incredibly compact and energy efficient, they deliver powerful heating and hot water almost instantly.

When you choose a Glow-worm combi boiler, you’re choosing the best for your home and family. We are a trusted manufacturer of high efficiency combi and condensing boilers. In fact, we developed the technology for the very first mass-produced condensing combi boiler back in the 1990’s, so you know you’re in safe hands.

Browse our range below and shop your new Glow-worm combi kettle.

Need a little help? Don’t hesitate to contact us online or give our friendly team a call on 0345 602 2922 and we’ll be happy to answer any questions you may have.

*Please note: Our extended warranties are available when installed and registered by a Club Energy installer. Find an installer near you to take advantage of this offer.

Read more about Worcester Bosch Boiler Error Codes List with Effective Solutions

frequently asked Questions

What is the F5 error code firefly cauldron?

The firefly boiler error code f5 occurs when your boiler enters the overheating status. This could be due to previous work, e.g. B. on airlocks in your central heating system. Make sure there is no air in the central heating system to prevent the boiler from tripping.

What does the error code f1 mean on a glow-worm cauldron?

When the F1 error code appears on your glow-worm boiler, it means there is a problem with the firing order. There are a number of ignition problems that can cause your boiler to stop working.

Error codes on firefly kettles will help your technician pinpoint the source of the problem faster than if they were starting from scratch. If an error code appears on the display panel, your boiler is most likely locked out. It will not work again until your boiler repair company identifies the problem.

What is the F22 error code firefly cauldron?

Low pressure is indicated by boiler error code F22. There is a high chance that you have a leak if this is just appearing on the screen and your boiler is losing pressure. Otherwise the system probably has an airlock.

What is the F3 error code on the firefly cauldron?

Fan Cannot Reach Ignition Speed” is an F3 code on a glow-worm boiler. If your glow-worm boiler is giving you the F3 signal, it’s possible the fan is working, but not at full speed. This can happen when the mechanical side of the boiler isn’t working or when there’s a temperamental loose wire.

What is the firefly cauldron f4 error code?

A minor blockage was causing the F4 error codes, which were fixed quickly and easily. There was also no need to call in a Gas Safe registered professional to solve the problem as it had nothing to do with the gas boiler.

How do I reset my firefly cauldron?

Error codes beginning with the letter F are displayed on firefly kettles to indicate defects. Just press the reset button and wait 5 seconds to restart a firefly cauldron. You should be able to watch your cauldron come back to life.

What does F75 mean on a firefly cauldron?

The F75 code indicates that the boiler did not sense a rise in system pressure when attempting to spin the pump during its startup checks.

from Get a FIXED PRICE quote on Firefly Cauldron 0% APR for 3 years

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Glow Worm gas boilers are priced from £550 to £1789, not including installation costs.

Glow-worm is one of the UK’s leading boiler manufacturers and its boilers are extremely energy efficient, resulting in reduced CO2 emissions and heating bills. With a strong British heritage spanning 75 years, Glow-worm also invests in renewable technologies, hot water cylinders and home controls. Glow-worm also received the “Best Buy” award from the renowned journal “Which? Consumer organization that demonstrates the brand’s commitment to quality, performance and value for money.

Glow-Worm Combi Boiler Price Range – Compact, tidy and good value

Combi boilers generally work by taking cold water straight from the mains and heating it as needed, eliminating the need for separate water storage tanks. Glowworm combi boilers offer a fantastic level of highly efficient heating performance and the Flexicom boilers are the only range of gas boilers in the UK with a direct rear flue option. This means that you can install a Flexicom combi boiler almost anywhere. Extensive flue gas options are a feature of all new glow-worm boilers, allowing for increased installation flexibility. Firefly combi boilers cost from £550 to £1,555 and come in a range of sizes with a range of flow rates and power ratings.

We have put together a simple table that allows you to compare all Glow-worm combi boiler series:

Get 0% APR for 3 years on firefly boilers with British Gas Get your free fixed firefly boiler quote now

Glow-Worm Regular Heat Only Boiler Price Range – Traditional & Practical

Normal boilers (often referred to as conventional or open vented boilers) are typically used in more traditional central heating systems and are an ideal replacement if this type of system is already installed in your home. A pure boiler that works on a “heating only” basis requires additional storage for hot and cold water. Unlike the combination boiler system, the hot water flows tend to be higher because the hot water is already stored in the hot water tank. This allows multiple faucets to be used at the same time, but takes up more space than modern systems. Regular heat firefly boilers range from £623 to £1,004 with varying ratings (depending on the size of the property).

Suitable for different lifestyles and characteristics, the regular heating Glow-worm boiler range includes only the following options:

Series Heating Only Gas Boilers Sizes Home Size Pice Glow-worm Flexicom hx Normal 24-35kW Small, medium and large homes with more than one bathroom £622.80 – £1,003.64 Glow-worm Energy Normal 12-30kW Small , Medium & Large – Large houses with more than one bathroom £780 – £900 Glow-worm Ultimate 3 Regular 25kW Small and medium houses with more than one bathroom £830 Glow-worm Easicom 3 Regular 25kW Small and medium houses with more than one Bathroom £890

Get 0% APR for 3 years on firefly boilers with British Gas Get your free fixed firefly boiler quote now

Glow-Worm System Boiler Price Range – Reliable, neat and quick to install

System boilers are similar to regular boilers in that they require an additional hot water tank, but feed directly into the main water supply and are fully sealed. With glow-worm system boilers, all components are pre-wired, pre-installed, and pre-tested for greater reliability, faster, and more convenient installation. Firefly boilers are highly efficient and come in a variety of sizes with varying flow rates and power ratings. Prices range from £625 to £1,789.

Designed to fit most property sizes, the Glow-worm system boiler range includes:

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Why choose fireflies?

Glow-worm has been making easy-to-use water heaters for British homeowners since 1934, so the brand has been on the scene for a very long time. Today Glow-worm strives to offer its customers reliable and highly efficient products, manufactured in state of the art manufacturing facilities in Derbyshire. As one of the leading boiler manufacturers and one of the first to produce a condensing boiler, it came as no surprise when the brand was taken over by the incredibly popular Vaillant Group in 2001. But what do customer and engineer reviews say? To help you choose the most reliable kettle brand, let’s take a look at what the nation has been saying about glow-worm.

Great customer reviews

You can find over 1,500 customer reviews on Trustpilot, one of the world’s most popular review platforms. Glow-worm has earned an overall 4 out of 5 stars, with 74% of reviewers rating the brand and their boilers as excellent. This is a pretty good score and should give you confidence in the quality and reliability of glow worm cauldrons. Negative feedback is very low, with only 4% of people leaving a bad or average rating and only 2% rating their experience as poor. Looking more closely at the feedback from verified orders, it seems like most people are more than satisfied with their products and the brand’s level of service.

Average Which? score

After reading mostly positive reviews on Trustpilot, we’re surprised to learn that Glow-worm is a What? score of 54%. The brand did not do as well as some others, such as Viessmann and Worcester Bosch. Glow-worm scored 3 out of 5 stars in each category, with the exception of spares and parts availability, which was 4 stars. Although the results could be better, Glow-worm offers affordable, mid-range kettles with extended warranty options.

Below are the brand data results for glow-worm cauldrons that we extracted from the which? Website.

Firefly total score

Reliability 3 stars Customer rating 3 stars Engineer recommendation 3 stars Build quality 3 stars Availability of parts and spares 5 stars Ease of fixing a common fault 3 stars Ease of maintenance 3 stars

Based on responses from a May 2018 survey of 11,571 people. members about their boilers.

Problems and repairs of firefly cauldrons

It’s never a good time to learn that your boiler is having problems, and it’s likely that your glow-worm boiler will develop a problem and need repairs from time to time. Some faults are more common than others and different actions are required depending on the boiler model. You may be able to troubleshoot simple issues such as B. thawing a frozen condensate tube, but most problems with firefly boilers must be repaired by a qualified Gas Safe registered technician. If you want to learn more about the most common boiler errors and what to do if something goes wrong with your glow-worm boiler, you can read our guide to common glow-worm problems and repairs.

Firefly Cauldron Error Codes

When a glow-worm cauldron develops an error, it may display an error code to let you know there is a problem with your cauldron. The error codes make it easier for your technician to find and solve all kinds of boiler problems, so it is always a good idea to write down any error codes that come up as this will help your technician get to the root of the issue quickly and efficiently. Your boiler manual will usually contain all of the error codes related to your boiler, or you can find a list of the codes on Glow-worm’s website. Alternatively, you can read our guide to firefly boiler trouble codes to help you diagnose problems and find solutions.

Firefly cauldron cover

Firefly cauldrons are a great investment, but to get the best results, you need to arrange a cauldron cover. Offered in conjunction with the Domestic and General, the Glow Worm Care and Repair Plan will provide you with assistance whenever you need it. Enjoy repairs up to £1500, a replacement up to £750 if needed and the option to upgrade your heating too. If you want to learn more about Glow Worm Boiler Cover, go to Boiler Cover information here

Firefly Cauldron Warranty

When you buy a Glowworm Kettle you get a manufacturer backed kettle warranty that covers the cost of parts and labor should your kettle need repairing during the warranty period. The length of your firefly boiler warranty depends on which boiler model you choose and whether you hire a Club Energy installer to install your new boiler. However, in order to qualify for the standard warranty, you must register the warranty and comply with the strict terms and conditions, all of which can be found on Glow-worm’s website. It’s also worth checking out our Glow-worm Boiler Warranty Guide as it explains what is covered under warranty, some of the terms and conditions and how to register your warranty.

Firefly Cauldron Controls

Boiler controls can make your life easier and your boiler more efficient, which is why we encourage you to explore Glow-worm’s range of optional boiler controls. The range of firefly boiler controls on offer range from simple room thermostats and wireless outdoor sensors to clever personal heating assistants that allow you to control and adjust your heating and hot water from a smartphone or tablet. Because the proper use of optional boiler controls can help you minimize energy use, improve indoor comfort, and save more money on your energy bills, it’s important to educate yourself about all the options available. Our guide to Glow-worm Boiler Controls looks at the different types of controls you can buy, how they work, and what they can do for you and your home

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View: Boiler type All boiler types Combi boilers only Heating boilers only Normal boilers only System boilers only Price range All price ranges between £500 and £750 between £750 and £1000 between £1000 and £1250 between £1250 and £1500 more than £1500 Model type Dimensions Maximum flow rate Power Efficiency Typical price Betacom4 Combi-24 Combi H – 740mm

B – 418mm

D – 300mm 10L/min 24kW A 90% and over £550 Betacom4 Combi 30 Combi H – 740mm

B – 418mm

D – 300mm 12.4ltrpm 30kW A 90% and up £612 Flexicom 18sx System H – 700mm

B – 390mm

D – 280mm N/A 18kW A 90% and over £615.6 Essential Combi 24 Combi H – 740mm

B – 418mm

D – 300mm 10L/min 24kW A 90% and up £620 Flexicom 24hx Heat Only H – 600mm

W – 375mm

D – 280mm N/A 24kW A 90% and over £622.8 Easicom 24 Combi H – 740mm

B – 480mm

D – 338mm 9.8 l/min 24kW B 86% – 90% 694 € Easicom3 System 25 System H – 740mm

B – 418mm

D – 300mm N/A 25kW A 90% and over £625 Betacom 2 24 Combi H – 900mm

B – 500mm

D – 390mm 9.8L/min 24kW A 90%+ £642.41 Ultracom 12hxi Heat Only H – 600mm

W – 375mm

D – 280mm N/A 12kW A 90% and over £649.1 Flexicom 24cx Combi H – 700mm

B – 390mm

D – 280mm 9.85lt/min 24kW A 90% and up £650 Easicom 28 Combi H – 740mm

B – 480mm

D – 338 mm 11.5 l/min 28 kW B 86 % – 90 % 660 € Essential Combi 28 Combi H – 740 mm

B – 418mm

D – 300mm 11.7L/min 28kW A 90% and over £660 Betacom 2 28 Combi H – 900mm

B – 500mm

D – 390mm 11.2L/min 28kW A 90% and up £680.06 Ultracom 15hxi Heat Only H – 600mm

W – 375mm

D – 280mm N/A 15kW A 90% and over £687.48 Ultimate3 Combi 30 Regular H – 740mm

B – 418mm

D – 300mm 12.4L/min 30kW A 90% and up £695 Flexicom 30cx Combi H – 700mm

B – 390mm

D – 280mm 12.3ltrpm 30kW A 90% and up £696 Flexicom 30sx System H – 700mm

B – 390mm

D – 280mm N/A 30kW A 90% and over £703.2 Power System 12 System H – 700mm

B – 390mm

D – 280mm N/A 12kW A 90%+ £710 Ultracom 18hxi Heat Only H – 600mm

W – 375mm

D – 280mm N/A 18kW A 90% and up £716.78 Ultracom 2 12sxi System H – 726mm

B – 450mm

D – 334mm N/A 12kW A 90% and up £716.84 Flexicom 30hx Heat Only H – 600mm

W – 375mm

D – 280mm N/A 30kW A 90% and up £719.84 Ultracom 2 24cxi Combi H – 726mm

B – 418mm

D – 346mm 10.4L/min 24kW A 90% and up £738 Energy System 15 System H – 700mm

B – 390mm

D – 280mm N/A 15kW A 90%+ £740 Ultracom 24hxi Heat Only H – 600mm

W – 375mm

D – 280mm N/A 24kW A 90% and over £745.82 Ultimate 30c Combi H – 740mm

B – 418mm

D – 338mm 12.5L/min 30kW B 86% – 90% £750 Power System 18 System H – 700mm

B – 390mm

D – 280mm N/A 18kW A 90% and over £770 Ultimate3 Combi 35 Regular H – 740mm

B – 418mm

D – 300mm 14.4ltr/min 35kW A 90% and up £770 Energy Normal 12 Normal H – 600mm

W – 375mm

D – 280mm N/A 12kW A 90% and up £780 Ultracom 2 18sxi System H – 726mm

B – 450mm

D – 334mm N/A 18kW A 90% and over £788.84 Energy Combi 25 Combi H – 700mm

B – 390mm

D – 280mm 12.1L/min 25kW A 90%+ £790 Ultracom 30hxi Heat Only H – 600mm

W – 375mm

D – 280mm N/A 30kW A 90% and over £795.36 Ultimate 35c Combi H – 740mm

B – 418mm

D – 338mm 14.6ltrpm 35kW B 86% – 90% £800 Energy Normal 15 Normal H – 600mm

W – 375mm

D – 280mm N/A 15kW A 90% and up £810 Power System 25 System H – 700mm

B – 390mm

D – 280mm N/A 25kW A 90% and up £810 Ultimate3 System 25 System H – 740mm

B – 418mm

D – 300mm N/A 25kW A 90% and up £810 Ultimate3 Normal 25 Normal H – 600mm

W – 375mm

D – 280mm N/A 25kW A 90% and up £830 Energy Normal 18 Normal H – 600mm

W – 375mm

D – 280mm N/A 18kW A 90% and up £840 Energy System 30 System H – 700mm

B – 390mm

D – 280mm N/A 30kW A 90% and over £840 Energy Combi 30 Combi H – 700mm

B – 390mm

D – 280mm 14.2L/min 30kW A 90% and up £850 Ultracom 2 30sxi System H – 726mm

B – 450mm

D – 334mm N/A 30kW A 90% and over £857.24 Energy Normal 25 Normal H – 600mm

W – 375mm

D – 280mm N/A 25kW A 90% and up £870 Ultracom 2 30cxi Combi H – 726mm

B – 418mm

D – 346mm 12.5L/min 30kW A 90% and up £874.7 Flexicom 35cx Combi H – 700mm

B – 390mm

D – 280mm 14.4L/min 35kW A 90%+ £880 Easicom3 Normal 25 Normal H – 600mm

W – 375mm

D – 280mm N/A 25kW A 90% and over £890 Energy Regular 30 Regular H – 600mm

W – 375mm

D – 280mm N/A 30kW A 90% and over £900 Energy Combi 35 Combi H – 700mm

B – 390mm

D – 280mm 16.5L/min 35kW A 90% and up £920 Ultracom 2 35cxi Combi H – 726mm

B – 418mm

D – 346mm 14.6L/min 35kW A 90% and over £975 Flexicom 35hx Heat only H – 600mm

W – 375mm

D – 280mm N/A 35kW A 90% and up £1003.64 Ultracom 38hxi Heat Only H – 600mm

W – 375mm

D – 280mm N/A 38kW A 90% and up £1213.06 Ultracom 2 35 Store Combi H – 890mm

W – 470mm

D – 561mm 19.1L/min 35kW A 90% and up £1309.2 Energy 35 Store Combi 35 Combi H – 890mm

W – 470mm

D – 561mm 19.7ltrpm 35kW A 90% and up £1555 Ultrapower 100sxi Store System H – 1260mm

W – 575mm

D – 600mm 12.5L/min 10kW A 90% and up £1635.41 Ultrapower 170sxi Store System H – 1520mm

W – 575mm

D – 600mm 12.5l/min 17kW A 90% and over £1788.78 (Average prices descending and incl. VAT)

To get the best competitive boiler installation price and service, you need to shop around. We recommend getting a quote from a national installer and a local boiler installer. Compare them on the cost of the boiler and the cost of the installation. The average installation cost is between £1,500 and £1,800. Compare prices on firefly gas boilers to save hundreds of pounds.

Other factors to consider are the flexibility of when your installer can install your new boiler and their safety record. Today all boiler installations are carried out by Gas Safe Registered engineers. This will ensure that this is done safely and legally.

Get 0% APR for 3 years on firefly boilers with British Gas Get your free fixed firefly boiler quote now

Things you need to know:

[1] Savings on upgrading from a Class G boiler to a Class A boiler in a single family home using the average energy bill for a high usage home. Source: http://www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/home-energy-efficiency/boiler-replacement and https://www.britishgas.co.uk/energy/guides/average-bill.html

[2] British Gas acts as a credit intermediary, not a lender, and offers products from a board of lenders. Payment options are subject to change without notice. British Gas is a trading name of British Gas New Heating Limited (No 06723244), an appointed agent of British Gas Services Limited (No 03141243) authorized and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (Financial Services Register No 490568). Both companies are registered in England and Wales. Registered office: Millstream, Maidenhead Road, Windsor, Berkshire SL4 5GD. Credit availability depends on status and credit checks. Conditions and exclusions apply.

[3] The £200 discount is only available to British Gas Energy and British Gas HomeCare 1-4 customers. This offer is available to homeowners and landlords with a total system output of up to 50kW. Available to 98% of UK mainland households. This offer cannot be used by British Gas tenants, landlord customers or in conjunction with employee/ex-employee/partner discounts. Conditions and exclusions apply. Offers are non-binding.

British Gas is a trading name of British Gas New Heating Limited (No 06723244), an appointed agent of British Gas Services Limited (No 03141243) authorized and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (Financial Services Register No 490568). Both companies are registered in England and Wales. Registered office: Millstream, Maidenhead Road, Windsor, Berkshire SL4 5GD. Credit availability depends on status and credit checks. Conditions and exclusions apply. Savings when upgrading from a G boiler. Source: http://www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/home-energy-efficiency/boiler-replacement

When is an old boiler too old?

There are many residential boilers in North America that are very old, inefficient and no longer performing optimally. In most cases, an upgrade of these systems is required to save fuel and minimize environmental impact. Replacing your old boiler sooner rather than later will likely make your home more comfortable and your boiler less maintenance-intensive.

However, if a boiler is still working after many years, how long will a boiler last? Also, when new environmental laws come into force, are there statutory regulations that regulate the age of an installation, and if so, which ones? Let’s explore how long a boiler should last and when it makes sense to upgrade or replace your system.

How long does a boiler last?

Many homeowners and residents only realize how old their boiler is when the heating fails. After all, the same boiler may have been in the basement for decades, doing its job for a long time without really attracting attention.

However, this usually means that it became progressively inefficient in the months or years leading up to the failure. As this is usually a gradual process, heating costs slowly increase over the years and in many cases system owners simply attribute this to rising fuel prices. Few believe this to be a mechanical problem or a sign that your boiler is nearing the end of its life.

In general, the average lifespan of many boilers is around 15 years. If your boiler is older, you might want to consider upgrading your system.

How can you tell how old your boiler is?

Once you know how long a boiler should last, it’s a good idea to check the age of your equipment. You can usually find this information on the type plate of the boiler. In addition to the year of manufacture, the manufacturer is also listed. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, you can still find out the age of your boiler by contacting the manufacturer and providing them with the boiler’s serial number. This information allows the manufacturer to determine what year your boiler was built.

Typically, a combi boiler should have a service life of 10 to 15 years. Boiler technology is constantly evolving and the best way to ensure you have the most efficient and reliable combi boiler is to upgrade your heating system at least every 15 years.

In this blog post, Ideal Heating offers advice on when to replace or upgrade your combi boiler and how to maintain your boiler to optimize its efficiency and prolong its life.

What is the lifespan of a combi boiler?

You can expect your combi boiler to last up to 15 years depending on the specific type of boiler, how often you use it and whether it has been serviced regularly. However, this does not mean that your boiler suddenly stops working after 15 years. It’s just a guideline to suggest that after this time your boiler is likely to become so inefficient that it’s cheaper to buy a new one.

That’s because different parts of your boiler wear out at different rates, which means your boiler will ultimately have to work a lot harder and use more energy to get the same results it did fifteen years ago. It’s much more energy efficient and cost effective to treat yourself to a fancy new combi boiler.

A combi boiler is a popular heating solution designed to provide heating and hot water on demand without the need for a separate water storage tank. Like all boilers, a combination boiler is a complex device that does not last forever. Visit our website for more information on what a combi boiler is, how it works and if you need one.

8 signs you need to repair or replace your combi boiler

Buying a new combi boiler can be an expensive decision, so it’s important you know when it’s time for a boiler replacement and when a simpler boiler repair will suffice. Here are the top signs to look out for:

1. It is over fifteen years old

Time is a good indicator of when to replace your combi boiler. After 10-15 years you may notice that your boiler is having problems, which shows that it is time to upgrade your heating system.

2. You inherited an old boiler

If you’ve moved, your heating system is probably at least a few years old. Try digging up the boiler’s maintenance history to find out when it was last checked. If your boiler has not been seen by a professional technician for years, then it is more likely that your boiler has worn components that can lead to boiler failure. If this is the case, arrange an inspection with a Gas Safe registered technician for an MOT for the entire boiler as soon as possible.

3. You have a non-condensing boiler

Due to a change in the law, all household boilers installed since April 2005 will be condensing boilers. That said, if you have a non-condensing boiler, it’s definitely time for an upgrade. Non-condensing boilers not only live well over fifteen years, they are also considered to be significantly less efficient than condensing boilers. You can find out whether your combination device is a condensing boiler in our guide.

4. You notice frequent boiler problems

There are many reasons why your boiler is not working. Some of the most common signs of a faulty boiler are strange gurgling or rattling noises from your combi boiler, water leaking or dripping around your boiler, or problems with your radiators (e.g. long warm-up time).

If you need to contact a combi boiler engineer more frequently, it is a sign that your boiler is on the brink.

5. Your energy bills are increasing

Older boilers tend to be less efficient and therefore cost more to run. If your mounting bills are weighing you down, it might be time to invest in a more efficient combi boiler model that will save you money in the long run while helping the environment.

6. You notice a problem with your boiler pressure

If your boiler is regularly losing pressure or your hot water taps are running too slowly, this could be a sign that your combi boiler needs repair or replacement.

There is a common misconception that combi water heater systems do not provide good shower pressure, leading some people to occasionally take low water pressure as a sign that something is wrong. Combo boilers actually provide a high pressure water supply as they heat water straight from the tap and deliver it at line pressure. However, it is not recommended to run multiple showers when using a combi boiler as sending water to more than one outlet can weaken the water pressure. Visit our page on using a combi boiler to power your showers for more information.

7. Your kettle flame is yellow or orange

If your kettle flame is yellow or orange instead of light blue, it is a sign of incomplete combustion, which increases the risk of a dangerous and potentially fatal carbon monoxide leak. While fixing the issue might be fairly easy, it is most certainly a red (or yellow) flag and should be checked out by a professional.

8. You can smell gas

It’s obvious, but if you smell gas you should turn off your boiler immediately and contact an emergency technician. A gas leak can be extremely dangerous – even deadly – and a boiler that is losing gas is often in urgent need of replacement.

If you decide it’s time to replace or upgrade your combi boiler, read our advice on upgrading your combi boiler. We also recommend reading our combi boiler size guide for advice on choosing the right size and output for your heating system.

Who can repair a combi boiler?

Only a Gas Safe registered technician can work with gas appliances, including carrying out repairs and maintenance on combi boilers.

While a plumber or someone without Gassafe qualification is working on parts of your heating system, such as B. your radiator, you are not legally allowed to carry out work on the gas line of your combi boiler.

The benefits of replacing your boiler

Replacing your boiler not only protects you from boiler failures, it also increases efficiency. This can help keep your gas bills down, reduce your carbon footprint and could even increase the value of your home. A new combi boiler is also less likely to break down or leak, keeping your home and family safe.

Finally, a brand new combi boiler still comes with a guarantee, so you can have complete peace of mind knowing that if something goes wrong with your new boiler, you won’t have to foot the bill. Ideal Heating combi boiler warranties vary from 2 to 12 years, with additional out-of-warranty boiler protection also available for any Ideal system younger than 15 years. There’s a reason our warranty and protection plans aren’t available for boilers over 15 years old – because they’re considered a greater risk of failure and are therefore ready to be replaced.

How much does a new combi boiler cost?

The price of Ideal Heating combi boilers varies depending on the size of the boiler and your heating needs.

We offer a range of combi boilers to suit most applications, from our Logic+ combi boilers to our more powerful Vogue Max combi systems with a maximum output of 40kW.

Tips for maintaining the Ideal Heating combi boiler

As the proud owner of a combi boiler, there are a few tips and tricks to keep your boiler running as efficiently as possible:

1. Perform an annual boiler service

The annual boiler inspection not only helps keep your boiler safe and protects your warranty – it ensures your combi boiler is well maintained and running at optimum efficiency.

2. Clean, repair and replace

Follow your technician’s recommendations. If any component of your combi boiler needs to be cleaned, repaired or replaced then make sure this work is done. This ensures that the rest of your boiler is not affected by a damaged part, thereby extending the life of your boiler.

3. Reduce limescale deposits

Boilers can be prone to limescale, which is a deposit of calcium carbonate. Without getting too deep into the science, scale can clog your pipes and shorten the life of your boiler if left untreated. Installing a water softener and removing limescale during your boiler service could give your boiler a few more years of life.

Installing a magnetic system filter can also help remove dirt and sludge lurking in your heating system.

4. Maintain your heating system

To prolong the life of your boiler, make sure that all elements of your central heating system are working effectively. From bleeding your radiators to insulating your plumbing in winter, there are many ways you can keep your central heating running as it should.

5. Install a wireless thermostat

Although installing a thermostat for your combi boiler may not extend the life of your boiler, it does improve the overall energy efficiency of your home. With a smart thermostat like Ideal Heating’s Halo Combi Boiler Thermostat, you can set your heating schedule wirelessly and make sure your heating is only on when it’s needed. Why would you overload your boiler, especially at night or when you’re away from home?

Choosing your combi boiler

Good things can’t last forever. If you’ve had your combi boiler for over fifteen years, it might be time for an upgrade. Choosing a combi boiler has many advantages – they are efficient, compact and offer instant access to hot water when you need it.

Take a look at our easy-to-use boiler finder to help you choose the right boiler for your home.

Common problems with firefly cauldrons and how to fix them

By: Rob Wells

This guide to the most common firefly cauldron problems will get you through the tough times, and might even lead you to troubleshoot one yourself. Should you have any doubts or spot a fault that requires a technician, you can use our service to get a free boiler repair quote.

Common issues with firefly cauldrons

Low boiler pressure (108 or F22)

If the pressure gauge on your Glow-worm boiler reads less than 1 bar, there may be a problem which can prevent your central heating system from working as well as it should. Boilers gradually lose pressure over time, but a sudden drop could mean there is a fault somewhere in the system, often a leak.

Increase low boiler pressure

If you discover a leak around the heating system, shut off the water supply and contact a Gas Safe registered technician, also if there has been a sudden drop in pressure. If there is a gradual drop in boiler pressure, it is possible to repressurize the system yourself by following the steps in our low boiler pressure guide. If you don’t feel confident doing this, or don’t know exactly what’s up today, contact a heating installer who can do it for you.

Once the pressure has risen back to around 1.5 bar, your glow-worm boiler should have enough pressure to function again. Increase the pressure too much (above 2 bar) and you will then have a problem with high boiler pressure which could damage the unit.

Flame Detection Error (Error Code F16)

If F16 is displayed on your boiler, your boiler has a flame detection error.

Turning the hot water faucet turns the printed circuit board (PCB) into action, telling the burner to ignite, allowing the water to heat up, allowing the gas valve to provide sufficient fuel. If error code F16 appears, there is a problem preventing this form of process – either the flame is not present or the PCB does not detect the flame.

How to fix the F16 error code

Never attempt to fix the F16 error code on a glow-worm boiler yourself, always hire a Gas Safe registered technician. There are many potential problems they can investigate, diagnose, and fix:

Damage to the flame sensor

Defective circuit board

Obstruction in the burner nozzle

Problems with gas valves

Clogged flue or condensate pipe

No heating or hot water

There are many possible reasons your home may not have heating or hot water, including defective diaphragms and airlocks, motorized valve failure, thermostat problems, or low water levels.

This will get your heating and hot water going again

First check if the boiler pressure is too low (below 1 bar) and if the temperature is set high enough for the heater to start. Additionally, if you’re using a prepaid meter, it’s worth making sure you have enough credit.

Should you go through these and not find any problems, it is time to contact a Gas Safe registered technician as there is likely a problem within the unit.

Frozen condensate pipe (F1, F4, F28 or F29)

A condensate line in condensing boilers transports the acidic water caused by flue gases away from the boiler. This usually runs down a drain outside, so it can cause freezing outside in the colder months.

Thawing a frozen condensate line

You can thaw a frozen condensate line yourself without needing a qualified heating engineer. Learn how to do this in our guide to thawing a frozen condensate line. Whilst you can do this yourself you don’t feel like you have to do it, if you feel unsure or unsure, don’t hesitate to contact a Gas Safe registered technician.

Gurgling, banging, or whistling noises

Any weird noises you hear could be caused by a variety of things including air in the system, alternatively the water pressure could be too low or it could be boiling. You may be able to determine the nature of your boiler’s problem by the type of noise it makes. Take a look at our central heating noise guide to identify the cause of your noisy boiler.

Board Error (F13)

The printed circuit board (PCB) is effectively the ‘brains’ of modern boilers as it sends and receives signals from all electrical components within the unit. A faulty, defective, or unconfigured circuit board will prevent your glow-worm cauldron from working properly.

How to repair a defective circuit board

A board problem often occurs after a new board is fitted because the wrong model was installed or not configured. If one of these is the problem, a heating engineer can safely replace or reconfigure the circuit board.

However, if the circuit board is defective a new one will have to be fitted which can be quite expensive so you might want to consider a new boiler. Mainly because a problem with the circuit board can bring to light problems with other electrical components such as the pump and fan.

Do you need a boiler repair? Request a quote for your boiler repair now.

What firefly cauldron problems need an engineer?

Use the table below to identify the possible cause of a fault in your boiler. She will also let you know if you need a technician.

Problem Possible Cause Do you need a technician? No heating or hot water Cracked diaphragms and airlocks, motorized valve failure, thermostat problems or low water level Yes Leaking and dripping The most common cause is a faulty internal component, but it depends on where the water is exiting Gurgling noises A common cause Air in the system, alternatively the water pressure may be too low or it may be boiling Yes Pilot light goes out Possibly a faulty thermocouple stopping the flow of gas Yes Loss of pressure There may be a water leak in the system the pressure relief valve needs replacing or the radiators have been recently bled No, unless there is a leak Frozen condensate pipe Your boiler should show an error code or warning message Yes Thermostat problems The thermostat may be off or not set to the correct settings (time etc.) Consider replacing Kettle Lime – or S sludge build-up on the boiler heat exchanger Yes Radiators not getting hot Sludge or air build up in the system or uneven heat distribution You will need to bleed the radiators which does not require a technician unless you don’t feel like doing the task yourself. Boiler keeps turning off Possible reason: low water pressure, a problem with the thermostat, or no water flow due to a closed valve, air in the system, or the pump is not circulating the water in the system properly Yes

Guarantee on firefly cauldron

Glow-worm boilers come with 2-7 year warranties as standard but some models are eligible for up to 15 year warranties from Glow-worm’s club energy installers. Learn more in our guide to glow-worm guarantees. In order to keep the warranty valid, you must arrange for annual maintenance on your Glow-worm kettle, which will also ensure the unit is operating safely and efficiently.

Boiler insurance and ongoing coverage

If your boiler warranty has expired or is about to expire, it may be worth considering boiler insurance. You can take out this insurance with your energy supplier, but there is no obligation. When comparing boiler insurance policies, look for those that offer annual service and safety inspections.

Is it time to replace your firefly cauldron?

If you’ve had your glow-worm cauldron for a long time, you might be thinking about installing a new one. A brand new boiler could save you up to £300* a year if you live in a detached house. The table below shows how much you could save depending on your current boiler output and property.

House Type G (less than 70%) F (70-74%) E (74-78%) D (78-82%) Semi Detached £195 £140 £125 £110 Detached £300 £210 £165 £135 Detached Bungalow £ £155 £110 £100 £90 Middle Terrace £170 £120 £105 £95 Middle Floor Flat £80 £55 £50 £45

How to find the best boiler installers

If you are looking to replace your glow-worm boiler, a Gas Safe registered technician will be required to complete the installation. The decision you need to make is whether to go with a local engineer or a national company.

With local engineers, you are likely to be offered a very competitive price and they are likely to provide personalized service throughout your communications.

National companies may cost a little more but you have the reassurance of great brand protection and they can offer additional services like a running boiler cover.

We recommend getting up to 3 quotes from different engineers when considering who should do boiler related work. With our service, you can get free quotes from reliable engineers in your area.

*According to the latest figures from the Energy Saving Trust

Get Glow-worm Boiler Quotes Get quotes now for the supply and installation of a new Glow-worm boiler

How long does it take to install a new boiler?

When a new boiler is installed, one of the main concerns is how long this process will take. We explain this for you below.

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A broken boiler can be incredibly inconvenient, especially during the winter months when it’s cold and you don’t have heat or hot water until a technician comes out to replace it. If you are looking for a new boiler, please read our best guide to combi boilers.

For some unknown reason, boilers always seem to know when you’re busiest and decide to break down at that precise moment, which is why we understand the pressure to get the job done as quickly as possible to get your heating up and running again without taking too much time from your busy life.

Get a free fixed price quote for a new boiler quickly!

Average installation time for a new boiler

On average, a new boiler installation takes between 1-3 days. This may vary if the boiler is moved from one room to another. However if it is a simple boiler installation we expect this to be completed within 1 day. Some installers also take time to complete a survey, but at iHeat we conduct this survey using images you provide to us.

The time it takes to fit a new boiler can vary depending on factors such as the type of boiler you currently have, whether you are changing to a different type, whether you want to move your boiler and whether additional work needs to be done e.g. mount all new pipes.

In this guide we’ll take a look at how these factors can affect the time it takes to install a new boiler and the associated costs, but first let’s take a look at what constitutes a general boiler installation contains.

What does a boiler installation include?

Arranging the installation

To arrange an installation with iHeat, simply answer a few questions about your home and then choose your boiler of choice from a range that we believe is most appropriate based on your answers.

You can then use our financing calculator to calculate your payment method and select an installation date.

Once you have booked your installation we would ask you to send us some pictures of your current boiler which we will send to the installer so they can prepare.

We will also call you 1-2 business days prior to installation to confirm your order and the technician who will install your boiler.

Removal of the old boiler

When the installer gets to you in between, he will show his Gas Safety Registered badge to confirm his identity and will update you on his progress while following a checklist to ensure each task is completed to a high standard.

This starts with dismantling your old boiler.

Installation of the new boiler

Once the old boiler has been removed, the technician will begin installing the new boiler in the same location, unless you have chosen to relocate, and a new iHeat thermostat. They will then fully test the new boiler and ensure the central heating system is fully balanced.

Dispose of and clean up old boilers

The installer will clean up all the clutter and packaging from your new boiler and dispose of the old boiler to ensure your home is left clean and tidy.

A few days after the installation we call to check how everything went and if there was anything we could have done better.

How long does it take to install a new combi boiler?

4-6 hours

Replacing an old combi boiler with a new combi boiler at the same location is the easiest and quickest task for an installer. If everything goes smoothly, it usually takes an installer a day’s work (4-6 hours).

During this time, the technician will remove the old boiler, install the new one, and perform a complimentary chemical flush (not to be confused with a “power flush”) and adjust an iHeat thermostat.

After the work is done, the old boiler and the packaging for the new boiler are cleaned up and disposed of.

Are you thinking about a new combi boiler? Get a free fixed offer from £1,545 or £10.00 per month (9.9% APR) for 12 months.

How long does it take to replace a regular/system boiler with a new combi boiler?

Up to 2 days

If you currently have a regular or system boiler and are looking to upgrade to a combi boiler, you should expect this to take longer than a comparable replacement due to the additional work required including removing the no longer needed water tank and all new plumbing.

Installers also need to gain access to the heating system, which may involve lifting floorboards and doing any corrective work afterwards.

Are you thinking about replacing your old system with a new combination device? Get a free fixed offer from £2,200 or £14.23 per month (9.9% APR) for 12 months.

How long does it take to replace a baking boiler with a new combi boiler?

Up to 2 days

If you currently have a back boiler and want to upgrade to a combi boiler, allow up to two days due to the additional work required. First, you need to move your boiler to another location in the house.

This can be in a kitchen cupboard, in an airing cupboard, utility room, etc…

Second, all boilers require a vent or a way to vent harmful gases such as carbon monoxide. Baking boilers vent these gases directly down a chimney, while a combi boiler can vent in both horizontal and vertical directions.

This means that you need a new regular chimney from the boiler’s new location.

All the work like removing the post boiler, relocating the new station wagon and all the pipe and flue work involved is why the price of a post tank replacement is much higher than a comparable station wagon swap.

Thinking about replacing your post-heating boiler with a new combi boiler? Get a free fixed offer from £2,570 or £16.63 per month (9.9% APR) for 12 months.

How long will it take to move my boiler?

+ half a day

There are a number of reasons why someone would want to move their boiler from one location to another. For example, many homeowners feel that a water heater is taking up too much space in their kitchen cabinets that could otherwise be used for storage.

In these cases, they may want their boiler moved from their kitchen to the attic or an airing cupboard.

Due to the extra work involved in moving your boiler, such as B. Repairing and installing a new chimney can take about half a day, on top of the time it takes to remove your old boiler and install the new one.

The further you move the boiler from the original position, the more complicated the work will be and the longer it will take. The price of the job works the same way.

Boiler Type Move iHeat Cost New combi same room £250 New combi garage £400 New combi kitchen £400 New combi loft/attic £400 New combi utility room £400 New combi drying cupboard £400 New combi bedroom £400

Are you considering converting your new boiler? Read our helpful boiler relocation blog or check out our boiler relocation price guide.

Other factors affecting how long it takes to install a new boiler

Your current heating system does not comply with gas safety regulations

Unfortunately there are over 60 deaths from carbon monoxide poisoning in England and Wales each year.

As a result, the government introduced the Gas Safe Regulations, which are there to prevent mistakes that could potentially result in a fatality.

One of the regulations that came into force in the last 15 years was the 22mm gas supply line rule. In the past, gas supply pipes had to be at least 15mm thick, but this has now changed to 22mm.

Although it’s a legal requirement, many homeowners are unaware of this rule, so those with boilers over 15 years old are likely to have unregulated pipes.

If a plumber encounters 15mm pipes when installing the new boiler, they are required by law to replace your gas supply pipes with 22mm pipes. Of course, this costs time and money, but it is a necessary part of the work.

Installing a smart thermostat

A smart thermostat has many advantages, e.g. B. the possibility to control your heating from anywhere and save energy costs.

By default, iHeat installs a free wireless controller, but we offer the option to purchase a smart thermostat that we can install and explain to you.

While it doesn’t take all that long, it does add a bit of time to your installation, as well as the added expense of the thermostat itself.

When it’s time to replace your old boiler with a new and more efficient model, you may have questions about what to do with your old boiler.

Whether you’re concerned about disposing of your boiler in an eco-friendly manner or you just want to get rid of it without the hassle of transporting it yourself, with a boiler installation from iHeat you don’t have to worry.

How to dispose of your old boiler

We do not recommend attempting to remove your own boiler. This is a task that should be performed by a Gas Safe registered engineer due to the risks associated with gas boilers, which emit harmful by-products such as carbon monoxide.

Unfortunately there are over 60 deaths from carbon monoxide poisoning in England and Wales each year. As a result, the government set up the Gas Safe Register (formerly known as CORGI) which states that by law all gas engineers must be registered as Gas Safe.

If anyone, even a trusted electrician or decorator, offers to repair or work on your boiler without being on the Gas Safe Register, they are breaking the law and could cause a potentially fatal accident.

iHeat can remove your old boiler

If you have a new boiler installed by one of our Gas Safe registered technicians, they will remove and dispose of your old boiler along with all of the new boiler’s packaging, leaving your home tidy.

At iHeat we take gas safety very seriously and ensure all our engineers are Gas Safe registered. For your peace of mind, we ensure that our installers present their Gas Safe card on arrival so you can be assured that the job is being carried out diligently and safely.

Ask a Gas Safe registered engineer

If you have your boiler replaced by a Gas Safe engineer, they will remove your old boiler for you and what you do with the boiler afterwards is up to you.

Usually the technician will be happy to pick this up for you, but you can always try taking it to a junkyard yourself to see what they will offer you in return.

While it probably won’t be much, it could put an extra £40-£70 in your pocket depending on whether you have extra piping or tanks.

You can also rest assured that it is likely to be recycled, meaning that disposing of your boiler is environmentally friendly.

When your old boiler is no longer economically repairable and needs to be replaced, iHeat can install a brand new, efficient, A-rated boiler and remove and dispose of your old one at no additional cost. Request a free, fixed offer here.

Request a free firm quote for a new boiler from iHeat today.