Have a back boiler and want to replace it with the BBU HE? In this guide we explain why that's no longer possible and what options are available.
If you have an old, inefficient back boiler, you need to consider replacing it to lower your energy bills, save energy and reduce carbon emissions.
Many homes still have back boilers as their primary heating source, but they’ve become a rarity thanks to the 2005 Building Regulations.
In fact, installing outdated, non-condensing, and inefficient back boilers is now illegal.
Replacing a back boiler is a bit of an undertaking, but it doesn’t have to be.
The Baxi Bermuda BBU HE was an attempt to replace the traditional and outlawed back boiler with something similar that was also compatible with the new Boiler Plus legislation.
Please note: Unfortunately, the Baxi Bermuda back boiler (BBU HE) was discontinued and is no longer available. Instead, we recommend replacing your back boiler with a modern condensing boiler.
PS We fit new boilers with gas safe installation nationwide. Simply answer these questions, get your fixed price and you could get it installed as quick as tomorrow.
What Is The Baxi Bermuda BBU HE?
The Baxi Bermuda high-efficiency back boiler unit (BBU HE) was a fully condensing back boiler with a 15kW sturdy heat output.
It was more energy-efficient than old back boiler models and was thought to be an ideal solution for replacing ageing back boilers.
The Baxi Bermuda BBU HE could legally replace your existing back boiler and meet your heat and hot water needs.
The unit measured 538mm (H) x 383mm (W) x 306mm (D) and could bring a touch of class and comfort to your property with its aesthetic.
Despite being discontinued by Baxi, you can still find a unit among trusted dealers for around £1,000 (if you look hard enough).
However, we wouldn't advise that for a number of reasons (covered in the section below).
Why Was the Baxi Bermuda BBU HE Discontinued?
The Baxi Bermuda BBU HE was discontinued by Baxi for several reasons.
The model was launched in an attempt to provide a higher efficiency back boiler for customers who didn’t want to change to a combi or fit a wall-hung unit.
However, its launch was unsuccessful and its popularity among consumers dwindled.
This was due to it no longer being compatible with gas fires (you had to replace it with an electric one they sold), they also needed a new flue installed, down the chimney which also wasn’t that practical.
Combined, this ultimately meant they were not really that cost-effective.
They also only worked on fully pumped systems which, a lot of back boilers weren’t so by the time you’d changed all that, it was often cheaper and made more financial sense to install a combination or combi boiler.
Baxi Bermuda BBU HE Efficiency
The Baxi Bermuda BBU HE complied with energy-saving regulations and can help you reduce carbon emissions and fuel bills.
It was A-rated under SEDBUK, which was replaced by the ErP directive. It provides maximum fuel efficiency and is over 90% efficient with a class 5 NOx rating.
The Baxi Bermuda BBU HE allows you to increase carbon savings and reduce energy bills thanks to its compatibility with other low and zero-carbon technologies.
The Baxi Bermuda was also solar-ready, meaning you can replace its hot water cylinder with an unvented solar cylinder.
To a certain extent, the unit was designed to be "future-proof", allowing you to install solar panels to the system later on if you need to.
Baxi Bermuda BBU HE Technology
The Baxi Bermuda BBU HE model featured a lightweight cast iron and silicon alloy heat exchanger and an anti-vibration fan that minimises the boiler’s noise.
It automatically adjusts its heat output to match your precise heating demands thanks to full modulation functionality.
The Baxi Bermuda BBU HE was user-friendly, with external controls for managing the appliance.
Baxi Bermuda BBU HE Advantages
A-rated and conventional so you can save money on energy bills.
Eco-friendly with a class 5 NOx rating.
Compact with fireplace dimensions so you can save on space.
Easy to install.
Easy to use and control.
The Baxi Bermuda allowed you to replace your back boiler directly without modifying any pipework in your house.
The entire system is relatively quick and easy to install within a day because you can use the existing pipework (sealed systems only).
It can fit most modern electric fireplaces and provide a warm fireplace environment.
You can decorate it in a modern or traditional style and choose from stylish fire surrounds with back panels or hearths.
Should You Install The Baxi Bermuda BBU HE?
The Baxi Bermuda BBU HE is no longer manufactured by Baxi and was discontinued many years ago.
We recommend anyone with a back boiler replace it with a modern, condensing combi boiler.
Back Boiler Safety
Back boilers are not inherently dangerous, provided they’re kept in use.
A back boiler can be unsafe if you’re no longer using it and it hasn’t been correctly decommissioned.
If you have a back boiler behind your fireplace and are unsure whether it’s been appropriately decommissioned, get a Gas Safe engineer to inspect it before lighting it.
Is A Combi Boiler Better?
While the Baxi Bermuda BBU HE provided a quick and easy solution when you need to replace an old back boiler, you’ll need to get a modern combi boiler at some point.
Combination boilers are the most commonly installed boilers in the UK and can provide both your heating and hot water from a single unit.
They’re highly efficient and compact, instantaneously producing heating and hot water on demand.
Since they don’t require separate water cylinders or tanks, combi boilers are easy to install and less likely to take up excessive space.
Final Thoughts On The Baxi Bermuda Back Boiler
The Baxi Bermuda BBU HE provided the hope of an easy-to-install solution for back boilers without sacrificing efficiency, longevity or reliability. However, its launch was short-lived.
Today, the best option for anyone with an old back boiler is back boiler removal and replacing it with a modern combi boiler.
Looking for a great deal on a new boiler?
If you’re aiming to get the best deal on a new boiler, consider getting a quote from us, here’s why:
Gas Safe installation within 24 hours.
Thousands of satisfied customers with an average score of 4.9 on Trustpilot, surpassing the market leader.
Which? Trusted Trader: Heatable is proudly recognised as a Which? Trusted Trader.
Price match guarantee: We will match any like-for-like cheaper quote.
Flexible payment options, including interest-free finance.
Up to 12-year guarantee on selected boilers.
Fixed price guarantee: No hidden costs.
Save your quote and decide later.
Get an instant fixed price on a new boiler, here.
To learn more about boilers, visit our advice section, check out our YouTube channel, or read customer testimonials here.
Heat Happy.
