Why You Should Avoid DIY Boiler Installation
Insights from Brothers HVAC
As a competent DIY enthusiast, you might think installing your newly purchased boiler yourself will save money and time. However, this is a task better left to professionals. Here’s why:
The Need for Professional Qualification
While it's not illegal to install your boiler yourself, doing so can have serious consequences. Gas work is complex and dangerous, requiring the right training, experience, and knowledge. Incorrect installation can lead to legal issues, including potential court appearances and even prison sentences.
It’s important to note that it is illegal to handle gas work for compensation without being Gas Safe registered.
Understanding Gas Work
According to the Gas Safe Register, gas work involves:
Maintaining, servicing, permanently adjusting, disconnecting, repairing, altering, or renewing a fitting or purging it of gas or air.
Changing the position of a fitting if it’s not fully movable.
Removing a fitting.
All such tasks should be performed by a Gas Safe Registered engineer. While this list isn’t exhaustive, it highlights the necessity of professional handling.
DIY Gas Work: What You Can and Cannot Do
Some minor tasks, like adjusting the pressure or temperature, can be done yourself as indicated in the manufacturer’s guide. However, anything that might alter or disturb the gas supply or its components should be strictly avoided.
Other tradespeople, like plumbers, might handle certain aspects of your heating system, such as radiator work, but anything involving gas must be managed by a Gas Safe Registered engineer.
Who Can Work with Gas?
According to the Approved Code of Practice HSE Safety Regulations in the installation and use of gas systems and appliances (1998), gas work should only be performed by:
Individuals who have completed an industry-recognized training course followed by a competence assessment.
Currently or previously registered individuals who have proven competence through a certification scheme.
Those who have successfully completed appropriate full training followed by a competence assessment for premises outside the scope of the Regulations.
Training should cover safe installation, purging, commissioning, testing, servicing, maintenance, repair, disconnection, modification, and dismantling of gas systems, fittings, and appliances. It should also include knowledge of associated services like water and electricity, potential asbestos exposure, related dangers, and necessary precautions.
The Dangers of DIY Gas Work
Incorrectly fitted gas appliances can be life-threatening. Risks include gas leaks leading to explosions and carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas, making it undetectable without proper equipment. Each year, around 200 people are affected by carbon monoxide poisoning, resulting in about 50 deaths. Therefore, protecting your family by hiring a professional for boiler installation is crucial.
Building Regulations Compliance
Legally, your boiler installation must meet building regulations. If you install the boiler yourself, you’ll need approval from your local authority. Using a Gas Safe Registered engineer bypasses this step, as they can certify their own work. Non-compliance could result in fines and additional costs to correct the installation.
Voiding Your Warranty
New boilers come with warranties that are valid only if installed by a qualified engineer. Some manufacturers require the engineer to have completed specific training courses. DIY installation can void your warranty, leaving you to cover repair costs for any future problems.
Additional Benefits of Professional Installation
Professional installation offers numerous benefits. Qualified engineers ensure the correct boiler is selected and properly installed. They can also check your heating system for issues and perform tasks like a power flush to avoid contaminating the new boiler with sludge or debris.
Moreover, professional services often include annual servicing packages to keep your boiler running efficiently and safely.
Conclusion
While DIY projects can be rewarding, boiler installation is not one to undertake on your own. Ensuring safety, compliance, and optimal performance requires a qualified professional. Contact Brothers HVAC for expert boiler installation and maintenance to keep your home safe and warm.