Can you replace your own gas boiler?
Whether you’re a handy DIYer around the house or you want to try and save a few pennies, you might be thinking about replacing your own gas boiler instead of calling out an engineer. However, this is highly frowned upon and could actually be illegal. Below, you can find out more information about what you can and can’t do yourself at home, from bleeding radiators and checking boiler pressure to replacing a boiler altogether.
Can I install my own boiler?
A boiler can only be installed by a Gas Safe registered engineer, so you should never try to install your own boiler, unless of course you are a Gas Safe engineer by trade.
The Gas Safe Register is the UK’s official list of businesses that are registered to work on gas appliances, such as boilers, fires and cookers. Businesses that are on the list must register any engineers with a Gas Safe ID card so they can carry out a range of tasks safely and legally. They can also issue Gas Safe Certificates after installing new gas appliances.
If you’re not on the register, you may not even be allowed to remove the casing from the front of your boiler. Front cases should only be removed if they’re decorative. Some cases form a part of the combustion circuit or create a seal around gas-carrying components, like burners. In this instance, you shouldn’t remove the casing.
If you require a new boiler or have one that needs to be installed, this should only be fitted by a person with the right qualifications.
Finding a registered engineer is quick and easy. Simply visit the Gas Safe Register website. You can then search for suitable professionals by entering your postcode and selecting the type of appliance you would like them to work on. Once you click ‘Find’, you will be presented with a list of engineers. Always check their specific qualifications before agreeing to use their services.
Is it illegal to fit your own boiler?
It is illegal to install a gas boiler yourself in your home. A gas boiler can only be fitted by a Gas Safe registered engineer and only they can register the installation of a new boiler via Gas Safe. This registration tells them that you have a gas appliance installed in your property, and must be done to comply with Building Regulations.
It is also illegal to service a boiler yourself or install the boiler and have it checked by a Gas Safe heating engineer.
Should a boiler be installed correctly, you could cause a gas leak at home, resulting in carbon monoxide poisoning or worse, an explosion or fire.
Who can install a gas boiler?
Only someone who is listed on the Gas Safe Register is able to install a gas appliance, like a boiler.
To check if an engineer is registered, ask to see their ID card or check on the Gas Safe website. Each year, registered engineers are issued with a new ID card that displays a unique seven-digit licence number. If a tradesperson can’t provide this proof of identification, don’t use them, even if they say they are on the list.
Can you carry out any boiler maintenance yourself?
While you can’t install your own boiler or make changes of any kind that could disrupt the gas supply or interfere with related gas components, there are some general DIY jobs that you can carry out at home. However, if you feel out of your depth or unsure of what you’re doing, it’s always a good idea to contact a qualified expert.
Some of the maintenance tasks you can do yourself include bleeding radiators, checking your boiler’s pressure, adjusting the system’s temperature or checking for leaks. Some of these things should be done routinely to ensure your heating system is running as efficiently and smoothly as possible. Things like leaks can cause damage elsewhere too, such as to the floorboards, plaster or joists, particularly if left for a long time.
Find a specialist Viessmann-trained installer today to fit a new boiler, provide advice on new products or fix your existing boiler. All our installers are Gas-Safe certified.