Yes, a gas boiler can be fitted on an internal wall, but there are specific requirements and considerations that must be met to ensure safe and efficient operation. This comprehensive guide will provide you with the necessary technical details and expert insights to successfully install a gas boiler on an internal wall.
Weight and Wall Strength
The internal wall must be able to support the weight of the gas boiler, which can range from 30 to 100 kg, depending on the model. The wall must have a minimum thickness of 100mm and be constructed using materials such as brick, concrete, or dense blockwork to provide the necessary structural integrity. If the wall does not meet the required standards, it may need to be reinforced or an alternative location should be considered.
Flue Run and Access
The flue, which is responsible for safely venting the combustion gases, must be accessible for inspection and maintenance throughout its entire length. This typically involves installing inspection hatches at every joint in the flue run, ensuring that no joint is more than 1.5 meters from the edge of an inspection hatch. The flue must be made of a corrosion-resistant material, such as stainless steel or aluminum, and have a minimum diameter of 100mm for natural gas boilers and 125mm for LPG boilers.
Flue Position and Distance
The flue must be positioned at a safe distance from openable doors, windows, air vents, drains, gutters, and soil pipes. The required distance typically ranges from 30 to 60 cm, depending on the type of boiler and the specific installation requirements. This ensures that the combustion gases are safely discharged and do not pose a risk to the occupants or the surrounding environment.
Ventilation and Drainage
The gas boiler must be located near a drainage system or have a condensate pump to handle the condensation produced during the combustion process. Additionally, the boiler must have sufficient ventilation, especially if it is installed in a cupboard or an enclosed space. The ventilation requirements are typically specified by the boiler manufacturer and must be strictly adhered to.
Legal Requirements
The installation of a gas boiler on an internal wall must comply with all relevant building regulations and gas safety regulations. A Gas Safe Registered engineer should be consulted to ensure that the installation meets the necessary legal requirements and safety standards. This includes obtaining the appropriate permits, following the manufacturer’s installation instructions, and ensuring that the boiler is properly commissioned and tested.
Technical Specifications
- Flue Inspection Hatches: Hatches must be at least 300mm square and located at every joint in the flue run.
- Flue Joint Distance: No flue joint should be more than 1.5 meters from the edge of an inspection hatch.
- Flue Positioning: The flue should be positioned at least 30 to 60 cm away from openable doors, windows, air vents, drains, gutters, and soil pipes.
- Boiler Weight: The gas boiler can weigh between 30 to 100 kg, depending on the model.
- Wall Thickness: The internal wall must have a minimum thickness of 100mm and be constructed using materials such as brick, concrete, or dense blockwork.
- Ventilation Requirements: The ventilation requirements are typically specified by the boiler manufacturer and must be strictly adhered to.
- Condensate Drainage: The boiler must be located near a drainage system or have a condensate pump to handle the condensation produced during the combustion process.
By following these technical specifications and legal requirements, you can safely and efficiently install a gas boiler on an internal wall, ensuring the safety and comfort of your home.
References:
- https://www.diynot.com/diy/threads/can-i-boiler-be-installed-on-an-inside-wall.569915/
- https://www.viessmann.co.uk/en/heating-advice/boilers/does-a-boiler-have-to-be-on-an-external-wall.html
- https://www.mybuilder.com/questions/v/71639/installing-boiler-on-internal-wall
- https://www.mumsnet.com/talk/property/905196-Boiler-on-internal-wall
- https://www.reddit.com/r/DIYUK/comments/1ahf3sl/not_diy_but_want_advice_on_mounting_a_boiler_on/