FAQs

Question 1

Is a condensing boiler a combi boiler?

Accepted Answer

Is a condensing boiler the same as a combi boiler? The short answer is yes. However, there are 3 types of condensing boilers.

Question 2

Will I need a hot water cylinder with my air source heat pump?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you will need a hot water cylinder with your air source heat pump, unless you are looking at a hybrid system.

Question 3

Should I turn off my air source heat pump in the summer?

Accepted Answer

Air source heat pumps work best when they are allowed to run continuously. You’ll need to keep it switched on, even in summer, for it to work efficiently throughout the year.

Question 4

Where is safe to install a boiler?

Accepted Answer

You can have your boiler installed safely in most rooms. However, you do need to consider the Building Regulations.

Question 5

How much space do I need for an air source heat pump?

Accepted Answer

Your heat pump will need plenty of clear space around it to work efficiently. Spatial needs depends on the model of heat pump you have. Learn more here...

Question 6

How can I set the schedule for my central heating?

Accepted Answer

You can set the schedule for your central heating using the Baxi uSense app or thermostat.

Question 7

How do I connect My Baxi app to my Alexa?

Accepted Answer

Connect the My Baxi app to Alexa by enabling the My Baxi Skill from the Alexa store.

Question 8

Can an air source heat pump be moved after installation?

Accepted Answer

While it is technically possible, as a general rule, an air source heat pump should not be moved once it’s installed. Find out more about the process...

Question 9

Do you need planning permission for an air source heat pump?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, you don't need planning permission for an air source heat pump (ASHP). But there are certain rules & regulations to be followed in certain circumstances or settings.

Question 10

Will an air source heat pump work while I am on holiday?

Accepted Answer

Yes, use 'holiday' mode while you are on holiday to ensure your house is at a comfortable temperature for when you return.

Question 11

Will an air source heat pump provide all of my heating and hot water needs?

Accepted Answer

When combined with a compatible hot water cylinder, an air source heat pump can be a great option for efficient heating and hot water performance.

Question 12

Is an air source heat pump noisy?

Accepted Answer

Air source heat pumps are designed to be quiet pieces of equipment, typically no louder than a refrigerator.

Question 13

What are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Air Source Heat Pumps

Accepted Answer

From saving energy bills, ASHP grants to space requirement considerations; find out all about the pros and cons of Air Source Heat Pump...

Question 14

Can an air source heat pump work alongside a boiler?

Accepted Answer

Air Source Heat Pump can absolutely work alongside a Boiler. This is called a hybrid system. Find out how they work, benefits & Installation considerations

Question 15

How much does it cost to service an air source heat pump?

Accepted Answer

Prices start from £200 for a one-off annual service. Baxi offer servicing plans to help spread the cost of the annual service over the year.

Question 16

Do air source heat pumps need servicing?

Accepted Answer

Yes, to maintain the warranty T&C’s heat pumps should be serviced each year. It not only keeps your warranty valid, but it makes sure your heat pump, and associated system is kept in top working order to prevent any unexpected breakdowns.

Question 17

Are air source heat pumps safe?

Accepted Answer

Air source heat pumps that are installed correctly and in accordance with key guidelines are designed to be safe and efficient, with numerous safety features required as part of the installation.

Question 18

Does an air source heat pump freeze in the winter?

Accepted Answer

Most modern heat pumps have a defrost cycle feature to prevent it freezing during the winter.

Question 19

What settings can a heat network work with?

Accepted Answer

Heat networks are suitable for various settings that have multiple end users, including offices, hospitals, universities & homes, amongst others. Read more

Question 20

What is a Heat Network?

Accepted Answer

Find out what heat networks are and different types of heat networks at our Baxi FAQ's section...

Question 21

What size air source heat pump do I need?

Accepted Answer

Heat pumps need to be sized correctly in order to work efficiently. Generally, larger homes need a heat pump with a larger output.

Question 22

Can an air source heat pump improve my EPC rating?

Accepted Answer

Having an air source heat pump installed at your property can bring significant benefits. One of them being your EPC rating. Find out more...

Question 23

Air source heat pump costs

Accepted Answer

Air source heat pump tends to cost around £14,000. But, homeowners in England & Wales can get a discount of up to £7,500 off an ASHP installation. More...

Question 24

What is the coefficient of performance (COP) of an air source heat pump?

Accepted Answer

An air source heat pump’s COP and SCOP ratings give an indication of how efficiently it performs under certain conditions and throughout the year.

Question 25

Can an air source heat pump be wrapped?

Accepted Answer

An air source heat pump can be wrapped using a protective layer of vinyl, as long as certain conditions are met.

Question 26

Should I turn off my boiler in the summer?

Accepted Answer

Generally, it is best to keep your boiler switched on even during the summer months, however this can depend on your home and your circumstances.

Question 27

Will an air source heat pump work in the winter?

Accepted Answer

Yes, air source heat pumps still work effectively even in colder conditions. A defrost cycle ensures that the unit remains clear of frost and ice and continues to work as you expect.

Question 28

Why is my external condensate pipe freezing?

Accepted Answer

Condensate pipes can freeze in extreme temperatures or as a result of improper insulation. A slow flow rate can also cause the wastewater to freeze before it can be drained away.

Question 29

How do I set up my new My Baxi app for my uSense smart control?

Accepted Answer

All the information on your old uSense app should be migrated automatically to your new My Baxi app.

Question 30

Why should I get the water in my central heating system cleaned?

Accepted Answer

If your boiler breaks down due to sludge in the system, the repair work is not covered under your warranty and can lead to expensive repair bills as a result.

Question 31

How old is my boiler?

Accepted Answer

You can find out how old your boiler is by visiting the official industry database. Read more...

Question 32

Why should I have a filter fitted?

Accepted Answer

Many boiler breakdowns occur due to sludge in the heating system. A magnetic filter is an effective way of preventing this sludge from accumulating, and may prevent costly breakdowns at a later stage.

Question 33

How often should I have my boiler serviced?

Accepted Answer

We advise you have your boiler serviced every year in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and to keep your warranty valid.

Question 34

How long is the warranty on a Baxi boiler?

Accepted Answer

Baxi boiler warranties range from two-year parts and labour up to 10-year parts and labour, subject to being registered within 30 days of the boiler’s installation and an annual service being carried out.

Question 35

How long does a boiler last?

Accepted Answer

Typically, a well-maintained boiler will last between 10 and 15 years, with a service carried out at least once a year.

Question 36

How energy efficient is my boiler?

Accepted Answer

Most modern boilers are designed to be highly efficient, due to changes in building regulations. You can use your boiler’s Energy related Products (ErP) directive certification to understand how efficient it is.

Question 37

How does a system boiler work?

Accepted Answer

A system boiler has all the main components of the heating system within it, allowing a neat and quick installation. The boiler heats water stored in a cylinder or tank, delivering hot water when required and is particularly beneficial in properties that have a high demand for hot water.

Question 38

How does a heat only boiler work?

Accepted Answer

Heat only boilers heat the water stored in a cylinder or tank, delivering hot water throughout the property when it’s needed.

Question 39

How does a combi boiler work?

Accepted Answer

A combi boiler brings central heating and hot water together in one unit. Water is heated instantly when a tap is turned on and the thermostat signals the boiler to turn on the heating when the temperature drops below a set temperature.

Question 40

What is a condensing boiler and how does it work?

Accepted Answer

A condensing boiler is a boiler that recaptures and reuses the heat from combustion gases that would normally be lost through the flue. There are three main types of condensing boiler: combi, system, and heat only boilers

Question 41

How do I set up holiday mode?

Accepted Answer

Holiday mode can be accessed from the More menu in your My Baxi app.

Question 42

How do I refresh the dashboard page on the app?

Accepted Answer

Want to refresh the dashboard page on the My Baxi app? Pull down the home screen until the ‘refresh’ icon appears.

Question 43

How do I know if I've got sludge in my central heating system?

Accepted Answer

Issues with your radiator temperature, leaks from your boiler, and unusual sounds from within your system are all indicators that there is a buildup of sludge.

Question 44

How can I set the temperature for my hot water?

Accepted Answer

You can set the temperature for your hot water between 50 and 60 degrees Celsius using the controls on your thermostat.

Question 45

What should my boiler pressure be set at?

Accepted Answer

Normal operating water pressure for your boiler & central heating system is between 1.0 and 2.0 bar. Find out how to troubleshoot when the pressure drops.

Question 46

What is the Boiler Upgrade Scheme?

Accepted Answer

The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) provides eligible homeowners a grant of up to £7 500 to help with the cost of low-carbon heating systems such as air source heat pumps.

Question 47

Does my boiler filter need cleaning?

Accepted Answer

Your boiler filter should always be cleaned as part of your boiler’s annual service.

Question 48

Do I need a carbon monoxide detector fitted?

Accepted Answer

For you and your family's safety, it is advisable to fit a carbon monoxide alarm in each room in your home that has a gas appliance or solid fuel heating.

Question 49

What is central heating sludge?

Accepted Answer

Sludge or magnetite if left to build up, can damage the boiler and the heating system. Find out everything you need to know about Sludge here...

Question 50

Do I have to have a magnetic boiler filter installed?

Accepted Answer

Fitting a filter is considered best practice when installing a new boiler. The installer must carry out the following steps when a new boiler is fitted...

Question 51

What is Benchmark?

Accepted Answer

Find out everything you need to know about the Benchmark Scheme - how it works, benefits, and how it affects your boiler warranty.

Question 52

Cylinder types explained – vented, unvented, direct and indirect

Accepted Answer

Learn about the different types of hot water cylinders for your home - direct, indirect, vented and unvented - and which one you need for your requirements

Question 53

What is a magnetic boiler filter?

Accepted Answer

Find out everything you need to know about the magnetic boiler filter, how they function, why should the filter be fitted, and how to look after them.

Question 54

What is a gas safety certificate?

Accepted Answer

Find out everything you need to know about the gas safety certificate and information on gas safety checks for landlords and tenants.

Question 55

Do I need to change my radiators for a new air source heat pump?

Accepted Answer

As air source heat pumps work at lower temperatures than traditional boilers, there may be a need for your radiators to be upgraded.

Question 56

What is a back Boiler?

Accepted Answer

A Back Boiler is a small, compact Boiler fitted at the back of an open fireplace hearth. Find out everything you need to know about the Back Boiler.

Question 57

Can I use my existing cylinder when I have an ASHP fitted?

Accepted Answer

If you’re looking to get an air source heat pump installed at your home, you’ll likely also need a specially designed cylinder for it to heat your water.

Question 58

What happens at a boiler service?

Accepted Answer

During a boiler service, your Gas Safe registered installer will carry out various checks, such as checking the gas pressure, ensuring safety devices are in good condition, and pipework is in a suitable condition. It will usually take around half an hour to complete a boiler service.

Question 59

What are the different types of heat networks?

Accepted Answer

There are three main types of heat networks: a district heat network, a communal heat network, and campus heating. Find out more...

Question 60

What other components do I need for a heat network?

Accepted Answer

Each part of a heat network requires key components to deliver the expected outcomes. Find out more.

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FAQs

Is a condensing boiler a combi boiler?

Will I need a hot water cylinder with my air source heat pump?

Should I turn off my air source heat pump in the summer?

Where is safe to install a boiler?

How much space do I need for an air source heat pump?

How can I set the schedule for my central heating?

How do I connect My Baxi app to my Alexa?

Can an air source heat pump be moved after installation?

Baxi at Home Blog

User Guides

Products

Support

Help & Advice

Important Information

Baxi at Home Blog

Switching from a boiler to a heat pump? Here’s what you need to know

Baxi is a leading manufacturer of heating and hot water solutions

FAQs

Is a condensing boiler a combi boiler?

Will I need a hot water cylinder with my air source heat pump?

Should I turn off my air source heat pump in the summer?

Where is safe to install a boiler?

How much space do I need for an air source heat pump?

How can I set the schedule for my central heating?

How do I connect My Baxi app to my Alexa?

Can an air source heat pump be moved after installation?

Baxi at Home Blog

User Guides

Products

Support

Help & Advice

Important Information