Boiler Regulations: What You Need to Know

Today, our homes wouldn't function without a boiler - in most cases, they provide the hot water that heats our radiators to warm the rooms and the hot water for our taps. Because they are so vital, it is important that they meet boiler regulations. But what are the regulations, and why do we have them in place?

Truth is, boilers could potentially be quite dangerous and expensive. So, boiler installation regulations have been put in place for households across the UK to minimise the risk of injury and keep them energy-efficient.

Meeting these regulations isn't just something a plumber will do to make themselves stand out from their competitors. It is a legal requirement.

At MJ Burt, we have been installing boilers for homes across Poole, Bournemouth and the surrounding areas for over 35 years. We hold all the accreditations needed for safe and compliant boiler installations, meaning you can trust that we will meet all requirements and regulations for each and every boiler service, repair, or fitting.

In this blog, we share everything you need to know about boiler regulations in the UK.

Key Boiler Regulations in the UK

Here are a few of the key boiler regulations that must be met in the UK by those installing or repairing a boiler.

1. Gas Safe Registration

Plumbers installing, servicing or repairing a boiler must have a Gas Safe registration. Only those with this qualification are legally permitted to work on boilers in the UK.

This registration can be proven by their Gas Safe ID card.

This is a qualification and registration that must be maintained annually.

2. Energy Efficiency Standards

Today, energy efficiency isn't simply something to choose. When it comes to boiler installation regulations, it is a need.

With this in mind, all new installations must be condensing boilers with a minimum efficiency level set at 92% for gas boilers.

New boilers being installed in homes or commercial properties must meet the Energy-related Products (ErP) Directive requirements.

On top of all this, it is mandatory that they use thermostatic controls and intelligent heating controls.  

3. Flue Positioning and Ventilation

In addition to the energy efficiency and function of the boiler, their placements are highly regulated.

Boiler regulations state the following about the placement of the boiler itself and the network of the flue and ventilation system:

• Flues must terminate at least 300mm from windows, doors, and air vents
• There must be a minimum clearance from building openings and boundaries
• Proper ventilation must be ensured to prevent dangerous gas build-up
• Specific positioning rules must be followed as recommended for the boiler type and location 

4. Carbon Monoxide Safety

A serious by-product of boilers is carbon monoxide, a poisonous gas to humans.

Because of its dangers, it goes without saying that there are boiler regulations around it.

• Carbon monoxide alarms are mandatory in rooms with fuel-burning appliances (boilers)
• Alarms must be installed on every floor with a combustion appliance
• Alarms must comply with British Standard EN 50291-1
• They need to be positioned at breathing height, typically 1-3 meters from the boiler

5. Building Control Notification

The final key boiler regulation ensures those who need to know are made aware of the new boiler installation.

So, the local authority building control must be notified about all new boiler installations.

Additionally, the installer must supply a Building Regulations compliance certificate.

The notification should be completed through the Gas Safe Register or competent persons scheme.

And most importantly, the paperwork must be completed within 30 days of installation.

How M J Burt Ensures Compliance with Boiler Regulations

At MJ Burt, we have a team of registered Gas Safe engineers who install, repair and service boilers. So, as soon as you contact us, you can be confident that you are dealing with a qualified team.

Each team member carries their credentials on them, so we are always happy to share these with you if you would like to see them.

Additionally, we only fit A-rated efficient boilers, and our team will advise you on the best boiler for your property and needs so your installation will meet energy-efficient requirements easily.

Before installation, our team will put together an action plan, which will detail where each component will be placed, ensuring they all meet boiler regulations.

As part of our boiler installation service, we will also make sure you have carbon monoxide alarms where they are needed and that they work - we will also show you how to test them so you can maintain them.

Finally, our team will handle all notifications needed with the Local Authority Building Control.

Right from the moment you contact us, you can be confident that your new boiler will meet all installation regulations.

Why Choose M J Burt for Boiler Installations?

When it comes to boiler installation, there are a number of boiler regulations that you need to be aware of.

However, most of these will be dealt with by your installation company.

At MJ Burt, we are expert boiler installers. Our process has been built around the industry standards and regulations, so you can be confident when we fit a new boiler, we will comply with all the regulations in place.

We have a team of Gas Safe registered engineers who have years of experience fitting all types of boiler systems in all types of homes.

Energy efficiency is a priority when installing a new boiler, so we will get an understanding of your heating needs and recommend a system that will allow you to make the most of the boiler.

Once everything is in place and working, we will deal with all the paperwork, certifications and notifications needed and will provide copies or original copies to you for safekeeping.

If you want to learn more about how we meet boiler regulations or are looking for a new boiler, get in touch with our friendly team today.

Call us on 01202 721955 or complete our online contact form to request a callback.