Installing a new boiler can change your life. Suddenly, you’re not calling an engineer out every time your old boiler stops working (usually in the depths of winter) it’s so much more efficient when it comes to warming up your home and your bills will be less but installing a new boiler is an expensive business, which is one reason why we might be tempted to cut corners and opt for the person who says they will do the job for the least amount of money.
It is easy to lose sight of the fact installation is just as important as the right kind of boiler for your home. The point we are making is you’ll be saving money anyway, so why skimp on the installation?
If you keep in mind that a new, more efficient boiler that is properly installed will save you money in the long run, then getting the installation done by someone with all the right accreditation and who can supply a boiler Gas Safe certificate is a much more savvy option.
Here we give you the lowdown on why employing a certified boiler installer with the appropriate credentials is not only advisable but essential if you want to get the most out of your amazing new boiler.
What is a boiler Gas Safe certificate?
This is documentation that confirms your boiler was installed by someone who has been qualified to the accepted standard. Once the boiler has been installed you’ll receive the certificate in the post a few days later for your safekeeping.
Do I need a Gas Safe certificate for my new boiler?
As a homeowner, you do not legally require a gas safety certificate for your boiler, though it does have to be registered with Gas Safe, by whoever installed it then Gas Safe will inform your local council building control, who will then send you a building control notification/compliance certificate.
For example, if your boiler is installed by a Gas Safe Register/CORGI-registered or OFTEC-registered installer, you will get a ‘building regulations compliance’ certificate from Gas Safe Register/CORGI or OFTEC after the work has been completed.
Gas Safe Register/CORGI or OFTEC will also tell the local authority that you have had a new or replacement boiler fitted.
What could happen if I don’t use a certified boiler installer?
- The wrong type of boiler might be installed
Your engineer can advise you on the type of boiler that will serve your needs.There are three main types of gas condensing boiler to choose from. These are:
- A combination boiler or combi boiler, which heats water as you need it and eliminates the need for a storage tank.
- A heat-only boiler, which may be referred to as a conventional boiler and which uses a hot water tank or cylinder to store hot water for later use.
- A system boiler is just like a heat-only boiler, but more components are built in. This can make system boilers easier to install than conventional ones and they tend to take up less space.
So, for example, if you live in a small home with only one bathroom, or live on your own or with only one other person, a standard combi boiler without a hot water tank will usually be the best option for you. The problem with employing someone who is not accredited means you cannot be assured you are getting the right boiler for your needs. An accredited heating engineer will be able to talk you through the different types of boiler and make a recommendation for the best choice in your home.
- Leakages
Amateur installation can result in loose connection to the main tank, caused by poor copper soldering and this in turn will result in leaks.
- You and your family could be at serious risk
Allowing unregistered engineers to work on your gas appliances is extremely dangerous. Faulty gas appliances can cause explosions and carbon monoxide leaks. Basically, if you have a natural gas boiler, you should never allow anyone except a licensed expert to handle the installation.
- A certificate helps if you’re selling your house
OK, a Gas Safe certificate isn’t essential if you are selling your house but it will save you a huge headache if you don’t have one and your potential buyer wants a copy of the certificate. Not having one could even result in their pulling out of the sale.
- Circulation problems
A good deal of planning needs to go into pipe placement for a boiler installation. Bad pipework often means a loss of heating through poor use of space, as well as wasted energy. Your boiler will have to work harder to reach the appropriate temperature.
Now is the perfect time to consider getting a new boiler and our team at Range Heating have the credentials and expertise to help you make the best choices so please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us through out contact form or call us on: 07872 105 094.
