5 Surprising Truths About Your Home's Heating and Water System
- Chris Welford
- Oct 2
- 3 min read
Published by DD Wilson Gas And Heating Engineers Ltd
Gas Safe Registration: 583586
Last Updated: October 2025
For most homeowners, heating and plumbing systems work quietly in the background, until they don't. Here are five facts about your home systems that could save you money and improve your comfort.
1. Your Old Boiler Isn't Just Old, It's a Financial Drain
If your boiler is over 10 years old, it's likely operating at only 60-70% efficiency. This means for every pound you spend on energy, 30 to 40 pence is being wasted before it ever heats your Home's Heating Water System.
The Real Cost of Inefficiency / Home's Heating Water System
According to the Energy Saving Trust, upgrading from a G-rated to an A-rated condensing boiler, combined with a programmer, room thermostat, and thermostatic radiator controls, could save you a significant amount of money annually. For a detached house, savings can reach £300-400 per year on gas bills.
Over a decade, keeping an inefficient boiler could cost you £3,000-4,000 in wasted energy. This shifts the conversation entirely: the question isn't "Can I afford a new boiler?" but rather, "How much is my old boiler costing me every month I wait?"
Important: Boiler efficiency ratings should be assessed by a Gas Safe-registered engineer. Book a consultation for an accurate assessment.
2. Extended Warranties: Understanding What's Really Covered
While most boiler manufacturers offer standard warranties of 5-10 years, some premium brands, such as ATAG, provide extended manufacturer warranties when approved installers install the boiler. DD Wilson, as an approved installer, can offer ATAG's enhanced warranty packages. TOP TIP: Ensure your boiler is serviced annually to stay within the warranty terms and conditions.
The Stainless Steel Advantage
ATAG's iCon boilers feature stainless steel heat exchangers, which offer superior resistance to corrosion and limescale compared to aluminium alternatives. This durability is a key factor in the manufacturer's confidence to offer extended warranties.
Note: Extended warranties require annual servicing by Gas Safe-registered engineers to remain valid. Check specific terms with your installer.
Learn more about ATAG boilers and warranty options.
3. Going Green Doesn't Require a Complete System Overhaul
Many homeowners want eco-friendly heating but are deterred by the cost and disruption of traditional heat pump installations. Hybrid systems offer a practical middle ground.
The Hybrid Solution
The Alpha E-Tec Hybrid Heat Pump system combines a traditional combi boiler with an air source heat pump. The system's smart controls automatically select the most efficient heat source based on outside temperature:
Above 5°C: Uses the heat pump for maximum efficiency
Below 3-5°C: Switches to a gas boiler for consistent heating
Key Benefits:
Installation costs significantly less than standalone heat pump systems
Works with existing radiators and pipework
Eligible for government grants
Check your eligibility for air source heat pump grants or explore the Alpha Hybrid Heat Pump system.
4. Water Quality Affects More Than Just Taste
A whole-house water filtration system can impact your family's daily life in unexpected ways. Professional systems filter water at the point of entry, affecting every tap and appliance.
Potential Benefits Include:
Skin and Hair: Removing chlorine may help those with sensitive skin conditions
Appliance Longevity: Filtered water can reduce limescale buildup
Laundry: Softer water can help fabrics stay softer and colours remain brighter
Taste: Chlorine-free water can improve the flavour of beverages and cooking
Professional Installation Required: Water filtration systems must be installed by qualified plumbers to ensure safety and compliance with water regulations. Learn about water filter options.
5. Cold Radiators Signal System-Wide Problems
Radiators with cold spots—especially at the bottom—often indicate more than just trapped air. Over time, sludge, rust, and debris accumulate in your heating system, restricting flow and forcing your boiler to work harder.
The Power Flush Solution
Professional power flushing uses high-velocity water to clean your entire system. Benefits typically include:
10-15% improvement in heating efficiency
Reduced boiler noise
Faster heating times
Extended boiler and radiator lifespan
Warning Signs Your System Needs Attention:
Cold spots on radiators after bleeding
Noisy boiler or pipework
Slow heating response
Frequent boiler breakdowns
A Gas Safe registered engineer can diagnose whether power flushing or other central heating maintenance is needed.
Is Your Home Working as Smart as It Could Be?
Understanding your home's heating and plumbing systems helps you make informed decisions about maintenance and upgrades. From addressing inefficient boilers to improving water quality, small changes can have significant impacts on comfort and costs.
Next Steps
For professional assessment of your system's efficiency and potential savings:
DD Wilson Gas And Heating Engineers Ltd Gas Safe Registration: 583586 Tel: 0151 739 8945 Email: info@ddwilson.com
Safety Note: Gas Safe-registered engineers must carry out all gas appliance work. Never attempt DIY repairs on gas appliances. You can verify any engineer's credentials at gassaferegister.co.uk
