Calculate boiler output from input and efficiency, or determine the required input for a desired output. Understand the relationship between gross input, net input, and heat output.
Boiler input (gross) is the total heat energy from burning the gas. Boiler output is the heat transferred to the water. The difference is lost through the flue.
Modern condensing boilers achieve 90–94% efficiency, meaning 90–94% of the gas energy goes into the water. Gross input is always higher than output; net input is gross ÷ 1.11 for natural gas.
Gross input includes all the heat from combustion. Net input subtracts the latent heat of water vapour in the flue gases. For natural gas, net = gross ÷ 1.11.
Modern condensing boilers achieve 90–94% efficiency when operating in condensing mode (return water below 55°C). At higher return temperatures, efficiency drops to 85–88%.
Calculate gas input rate (kW) from gas flow rate and calorific value.
Determine the correct gas pipe diameter from flow rate and pipe length.
Calculate the pressure drop in a gas pipe from flow rate, diameter and length.
Convert gas flow rate (m³/h) to heat input (kW) using calorific value.
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