Condensing boilers represent a significant advancement in heating technology, offering much higher efficiency compared to traditional boilers. By recovering latent heat from water vapor in exhaust gases, they reduce energy consumption and CO₂ emissions. In combination with high-performance HVAC systems from leading brands like Clivet, condensing boilers can contribute to an energy-efficient, sustainable climate control solution.
What Is a Condensing Boiler?
A condensing boiler is a high-efficiency water heater that uses condensing technology to recover heat from exhaust gases. This process increases energy efficiency by up to 98%, compared to traditional systems operating around 70–85% efficiency.
How It Works:
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Fuel (typically natural gas) burns to heat water.
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Exhaust gases pass through a secondary heat exchanger.
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Latent heat is extracted from the condensation of steam.
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This recovered energy is used to preheat water, reducing overall fuel usage.
Main Types of Condensing Boilers
Wall-Hung Condensing Boilers
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Description: Compact and mounted on walls; ideal for homes or small commercial units.
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Benefits: Space-saving, easy installation, low maintenance.
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Compatibility with Clivet: Suitable for hybrid systems where Clivet heat pumps handle cooling and the boiler supports heating.
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Typical Use: Apartments, villas, small offices.
Floor-Standing Condensing Boilers
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Description: Larger, higher-capacity boilers that rest on the ground.
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Benefits: Higher power output, robust construction, ideal for centralized systems.
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Clivet Integration: Perfect for mechanical rooms in buildings using Clivet air-handling units or hydronic systems.
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Typical Use: Hotels, hospitals, industrial facilities, multi-unit buildings.
Modular Condensing Boilers (Cascade Systems)
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Description: Multiple small boilers connected together in a cascade setup.
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Benefits:
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Load-sharing for improved efficiency.
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Redundancy: if one fails, others continue.
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Scalable capacity based on demand.
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Ideal Integration: With Clivet central plant systems for flexible thermal management.
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Typical Use: Commercial complexes, schools, shopping centers.
Combined Heat and Power (CHP) Condensing Boilers
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Description: Advanced systems that generate both electricity and heat.
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Benefits: Maximize energy utilization, reduce grid dependency.
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Clivet Relevance: Can support Clivet’s energy-efficient building strategy.
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Typical Use: Industrial and sustainable building projects.
Condensing Boiler Technologies
🔹 Stainless Steel or Aluminum Heat Exchangers
These materials resist corrosion from acidic condensate, ensuring long-term performance.
🔹 Low NOx Burners
Environmentally friendly and compliant with European directives.
🔹 Modulating Burners
Adjust flame size according to real-time demand for improved efficiency and reduced cycling.
Advantages of Condensing Boilers
Feature | Condensing Boiler | Traditional Boiler |
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Efficiency | Up to 98% | 70–85% |
CO₂ Emissions | Lower | Higher |
Energy Savings | Significant | Moderate |
Integration with HVAC | High | Limited |
Clivet and Condensing Boilers: A Perfect Match
While Clivet primarily specializes in heat pumps, VRF systems, and air-handling solutions, integrating a condensing boiler allows for hybrid solutions that ensure peak performance in colder climates. For example:
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Use Clivet heat pumps for cooling and low-temperature heating.
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Engage the condensing boiler during peak heating demand.
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Benefit from load optimization, energy savings, and system redundancy.
Applications in Real-World Projects
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Residential Buildings: Paired with Clivet ELFOEnergy units.
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Commercial Installations: Linked with ClivetPack rooftop systems.
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Industrial Facilities: Integrated into BMS (Building Management Systems) for energy monitoring.
Maintenance Tips
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Clean heat exchanger annually.
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Inspect condensate drain for blockages.
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Monitor burner and modulating valve operation.
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Schedule yearly service for performance and safety.