Boiler safety: what you should consider
A boiler can be safely installed in most rooms of your house.
There are, however, some that are more suitable, and indeed safer, than others.
In this article, we'll look at:
The building regulations you might need to know
Safety factors when having a boiler installed
Safe pipework and clearances
Choosing a Gas Safe engineer
The building regulations you might need to know
Your boiler will need to be installed according to specific safety and building regulations. Gas boilers can only be installed by a Gas Safe Registered engineer and in line with specific documentation to meet compliance standards.
More recently, regulations have been updated to ensure boilers meet minimum efficiency standards. Combination boilers, or combi boilers, must have a minimum Energy-related Products (ErP) rating of 92%.
Safety factors when having a boiler installed
Your boiler will be fitted onto a wall inside your property that will be strong enough to take its weight when it’s full of water. In most cases, that will be in a utility room, kitchen or airing cupboard, though boilers can be fitted into your garage, loft or even your bathroom. For the latter, your installer will consult the necessary Wiring Regulations and Building Regulations documents to ensure it is installed safely.
The boiler's flue must be able to pass to the outside, either through an outside wall or through the roof. Its manual will contain guidance on the minimum legal distances the flue terminal must be from windows, chimneys and other buildings to ensure safety and compliance with current Building Regulations.
Boilers that use LPG cannot be installed in a basement or other position below ground. This is because LPG does not rise and will therefore not be dispersed should there be a gas leak.
An engineer will carry out a range of checks to find the most suitable and safe location for your boiler, according to the unique attributes of your home.
