As with many building service components, it is essential to ensure a boiler is installed correctly and professionally by a qualified installer using trusted materials. To assure best practice, Jonathan Kidner, product engineer at Alpha Heating Innovation, provides some food for thought on the subject of efficient boiler installation.
HOW DO YOU MAKE THE RIGHT CHOICE WHEN IT COMES TO BOILER SPECIFICATION?
From a practical perspective, it’s a process of careful assessment, considering factors such as the size and heat load of the property, the number of baths and showers, occupation levels, the physical space for the boiler and safe flue terminal positions. Further discussion with the customer with regard to cost, warranty and aesthetics are also a factor.
WHAT’S THE FIRST STEP IN THE INSTALLATION PROCESS?
Planning! Before you even wield a spanner in anger, if you haven’t planned what you want to do and have prepared all the necessary materials then you’re likely to make the job much harder for yourself.
WHAT ARE THE CHALLENGES OF FITTING A NEW BOILER ONTO AN OLD SYSTEM?
Most commonly, this would be contamination/dirt/sludge in the existing system, but could also include an inadequate gas supply, awkward pipework layout and poor flue terminal position of the original boiler.
ARE OVERSIZED BOILERS AN ISSUE?
As the development of modulating burner control is now so widespread and turndown ratios are generally very good, boiler oversizing presents less of an operational risk than in the days of on/off burner control, but still remains unnecessary. Boiler output should be matched as closely to the building heat load, which is generally much lower now, thanks to good design and building practices, in order to maximise fuel savings, not to mention reducing capital cost.
HOW CAN A MANUFACTURER HELP THE INSTALLATION PROCESS?
Manufacturers can provide the products installers require, along with pre-sales as well as aftersales support, to ensure the installation process is both well planned and well executed. The technical teams have a wealth of experience, and in most cases have seen the challenge before and are able to provide first-hand advice and guidance. In addition, the technical teams can also provide the most up-to-date information regarding new products, legislation and general design/installation advice.
HOW DO YOU CHOOSE THE RIGHT FLUE SYSTEM?
A good site survey prior to providing a quote and certainly before installation. Sound knowledge of the flue product options available from your chosen manufacturer and likewise, a good understanding of the building and gas regulations around flueing is absolutely vital.
WHAT DO GAS SAFE REGISTERED ENGINEERS BRING TO THE INSTALLATION PROCESS?
First and foremost, is the knowledge skills and training to be able to safely and legally install a gas appliance. Homeowners/property-owners need to realise the importance of using trusted Gas Safe registered engineers to minimise the chance of a poor installation. It is also important for homeowners/property-owners to consider that quality work does not come at sub-economic prices.
Although their installation can be complex, boilers are an essential part of every building. For companies such as Alpha, these processes are all part of a comprehensive, professional service which ensures a new boiler – whether on an old or new system – brings that all-important warmth to the places which matter.