The value of a proper installation
As a Baxi installer, you are at the forefront of guiding customers through the intricacies of an installation and ultimately, helping them get the most out of their new boiler installation, so they feel comfortable in their property.
Read on for more about:
• Safety and accessibility considerations
• Outlining the different boiler types with your customer
• The importance of pipework
• Simple checks to show your customer
• Support from Baxi
We’ll also look at the support you can get as a Baxi installer when fitting our products across the country.
Safety and accessibility considerations for a new boiler installation
As you’ll be all too aware, there’s more to your work than simply putting a new boiler in a space. There are other factors to keep in mind, particularly when it comes to accessibility for maintenance and safety.
Easy access to the boiler is important for carrying put servicing and maintenance, or a simple top up. Having enough space to accommodate specific components of the boiler system, like the magnetic filter for example, is another key factor.
Flues cannot be obstructed and need to be a sufficient distance from windows and doors. At Baxi, our top central flue allows for flexibility when it comes to siting the boiler and lets combustion gases escape through the roof of the property.
Explaining all of this to your customer and educating them on the need for safety and practicality when deciding where their boiler will go is fundamental for carrying out safe installations.
Outlining the different boiler types
Homeowners will likely be familiar with a combi boiler, but what about the other types: heat only, electric, and system boilers?
Taking into account everything from the homeowner's average heating and hot water usage, available space, and whether they would benefit from instantaneous hot water or stored in a hot water cylinder, will enable you to deliver the right solution for their exact requirements, remember, you are the expert and they are relying on you for the correct advice.
Proper pipework matters
Depending on the type of boiler that is being fitted, there may be a requirement for additional pipework or a filling link underneath the unit. All pipework will need to be fitted in line with specific building regulations, such as Approved Document J and Approved Document L, and BS 7593.
Some other key aspects you will need to look at are:
• Ensuring the size of the pipes is enough for the required flow rate
• Insulation and frost protection
• Isolation valves to help with maintenance
• The material of certain pipes and fittings
Ensuring that the pipework is fitted in such a way that minimises unnecessary bends leads to an efficient system and optimises water flow. At the same time, this approach reduces heat loss as the water travels from the boiler to radiators and emitters.
Many customers will not understand the detail you take for granted, proper explanations of what is needed and why will ensure they can have a system that they feel confident will deliver the proper level of heating performance they expect and can contribute to energy efficiency.
Other simple checks when carrying out a boiler installation
You’ll undoubtedly be faced with a number of questions from your customer. Some initial areas you might need to show them include:
• Showing how to check the pressure gauge on the front of the boiler
• Explaining the need for a routine service and the warranties the boiler comes with
• Helping to get started with smart thermostats and mobile app controls
• Explaining the need for seasonal maintenance, such as keeping the boiler running throughout the year and bleeding radiators.
These checks might sound fairly simple and straightforward but can have considerable benefits for the homeowner and lead to favourable reviews for you as the installer.
Doing a good job is part of the solution, involving the customer in decisions and explaining the benefits of best practice leads to a customer that understands the care you are taking to look after them and ultimately leads to repeat business.
The support available to you as a boiler installer
Every installation is unique and will have its own intricacies. With the support of your local Baxi Area Sales Manager (ASM), we have you covered.
Baxi Training
Discover our comprehensive range of courses and videos designed to enhance your skills and knowledge.
Baxi Boilers
Our lightweight and compact combi, system, heat and electric boiler ranges are stocked in plumbing and builders' merchants nationwide. The ranges include models and outputs suitable for domestic gas, LPG and electrical heating installations.