Are you looking to get a new extension or work done on your home that involves moving your boiler?
If so, then you’re probably excitedly looking at plans and choosing decor – it’s an exciting time! So exciting, in fact, that most people don’t really spare a second thought for their boiler – aside from knowing it needs moved.
However, you may also have an inkling from the title of this blog post that there’s something you should be aware of. And it could be a very costly something!
As an experienced engineer, I’m going to tell you exactly why you shouldn’t get a builder to install your boiler, below.
Why shouldn’t a builder install your boiler?
I feel like I need to clarify this more. When I say builder, I’m not talking about your actual builder – they’re most likely not qualified, so that’s a given. But what they will do is arrange for one of their contractors – a Gas Safe registered engineer – to come and move your boiler for you.
This isn’t always the best option. After all, since it’s not a new boiler, these guys aren’t as worried about things like guarantees, for example. Things will still be done safely, of course, but things like gas pipes may not be the correct size and the job tends to be done very quickly and cheaply.
But that’s not the main reason why you shouldn’t get a builder to install your boiler.
After the contractor has done their thing, it’s very possible that your builder will start building around the newly-positioned boiler. And this is where the real danger lies. You see, in my experience, I’ve found that a lot of builders don’t adhere to Gas Safe regulations and the manufacturer’s instructions.
The result? Well, I’ve seen boilers that are boxed in, and unserviceable – potentially voiding your guarantee. Often, we’ve had to be called back to re-position the boiler in such a way that it can be serviced, costing our customers potentially an extra £400.
Advice from an experienced engineer
Instead of allowing your builder and their chosen contractor to install your boiler, call your own heating engineer. If possible, the one who installed your boiler in the first place. Especially if they’re an accredited engineer, they’ll care and will want you to keep your guarantee valid.
Go online and look up your boiler’s manufacturer guidelines/manual. This will tell you all of the specifications you need to stick to when your boiler is fitted. Then, show this to your builder. Ask them for written assurances that they’ll stick to these guidelines and Gas Safe regulations. This should come in the form of a certificate of compliance.
Doing this should give you peace of mind and ensure that your boiler’s guarantee will stay valid. Well, as long as you don’t forget to arrange your annual service, of course! Check out my recent blog on what else can void a boiler’s guarantee here.
Conclusion
Hopefully this blog has helped explain why you should never get a builder to install your new boiler. Whenever possible, go with your own engineer. And don’t forget to ask for a certificate of compliance to prove that your builder has agreed to follow Gas Safe regulations and the manufacturer’s specifications.
Do you have any questions on this subject of moving your boiler during renovation work? Let me know in the comments’ section. I’ll be happy to help!
