Heating Costs

When investigating any heating, just be guided by two simple laws:

• Heat rises, especially warm air.
• Heat will find cold.  Nature always seeks equilibrium so heat from a  
  warmer area will dissipate to its surroundings.

If you are building there is the opportunity to use the first law and near as beat the second!


Good design will let you use the natural movement of warmth to upper levels and provide all the benefits of passive solar gain.


High levels of insulation, double glazing and sensible ventilation will minimize heat-loss.

For existing homes, particularly 25 years and older, fitting insulation where possible and the elimination of drafts can reduce space heating by 50%.

Domestic Hot Water Heating

With about one third of a house hold's energy used in hot water it makes sense to utilize the same low cost source used for space heating to give boundless hot water.

Five factors that should be considered when comparing the cost of heating:

1. Initial Cost - Different for every home and every system the initial cost of a McKenzie boiler and a full hydronic system can be recovered quickly with savings on fuel.

2. Running Costs - The cost to maintain a healthy inside temperature varies with the location, construction, how you live in the home and the cost of the energy employed. The cost calculator will help you asses some of the fuel options.

3. Maintenance Costs - Hydronic systems typically are sealed and require little or no attention for years. McKenzie boilers do require regular ash removal and an annual clean; well within the skills of any handy person. Properly installed and maintained there should be no major costs for many years.

4. Property Value - The science of establishing property value is driven by desirability. For most people warmth rates very highly and whole home heating, particularly with a low running cost, adds real value.  Centrally heated houses sell more quickly and at higher prices than the equivalent houses without.

5. Durability - McKenzie boilers have been in operation for over 25 years and should continue for at least 25 more. Sealed hydronic systems are corrosion free, one can expect the components to be more durable than other plumbing fittings within the home.