Installing a gas boiler under the stairs can be a practical solution when space is limited, but it requires strict adherence to specific regulations to ensure safety and compliance. This comprehensive guide delves into the intricate details of the Gas Boiler Under Stairs Regulations, providing a valuable resource for homeowners, DIY enthusiasts, and professionals alike.
Installation Location
When considering the installation of a gas boiler under the stairs, it is crucial to ensure that the building is no more than two storeys high. This requirement is in place to minimize the risk of fire and ensure the safety of the occupants. Additionally, the boiler must be enclosed in a 30-minute fire compartment, which means that the compartment must be able to withstand a fire for at least 30 minutes before the integrity of the structure is compromised.
The enclosure must also be ventilated directly from the outside, as this helps to prevent the buildup of harmful gases and ensures adequate air supply for the combustion process. The ventilation system must be designed to provide a minimum of two vents, one at high level and one at low level, with a total free air supply of 550 square mm per kW of the appliance’s maximum output rating. If the air for ventilation is supplied from a heated space inside the building, the total free air supply must be increased to 1100 square mm per kW of the appliance’s maximum output rating.
Fire Boarding and Enclosing
Fire boarding or enclosing the gas boiler under the stairs is a mandatory requirement to ensure the safety of the installation. The fire-resistant enclosure must be constructed using materials that can withstand a fire for at least 30 minutes, such as fire-rated plasterboard or other approved fire-resistant materials. This enclosure helps to contain any potential fire and prevent the spread of flames, protecting the occupants and the rest of the building.
Ventilation Requirements
Proper ventilation is a critical aspect of the Gas Boiler Under Stairs Regulations. The boiler requires ventilation directly from the outside, with a minimum of two vents, one at high level and one at low level. The total free air supply must be a minimum of 550 square mm per kW of the appliance’s maximum output rating.
If the air for ventilation is supplied from a heated space inside the building, the total free air supply must be increased to 1100 square mm per kW of the appliance’s maximum output rating. This is to ensure that the boiler receives an adequate supply of fresh air for combustion and to prevent the buildup of harmful gases.
Technical Specifications
The gas boiler installed under the stairs must meet the requirements of BS 7671 for electrical connections. This standard sets out the safety and performance requirements for electrical installations, ensuring that the boiler is properly wired and grounded.
Additionally, the flue for the boiler must be installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions and local regulations. This includes ensuring that the flue has a safe discharge height and is positioned at a safe distance from any openable windows or other potential sources of ignition.
Additional Considerations
While a gas boiler can be installed under the stairs, it is generally not recommended to do so in certain areas of the home, such as bathrooms, shower rooms, bedrooms, or sleeping areas. If there is no other suitable location available, specific safety measures must be taken to ensure the safety of the occupants.
Furthermore, the compartment door should have a label stating that it should not be used for storage and is only for the boiler. This helps to prevent the compartment from being used for unauthorized purposes, which could compromise the safety of the installation.
Conclusion
The Gas Boiler Under Stairs Regulations are in place to ensure the safety and compliance of gas boiler installations in this specific location. By understanding and adhering to these regulations, homeowners and professionals can safely install a gas boiler under the stairs, providing a practical solution while prioritizing the safety of the occupants and the building.
References:
- Heatbase Ltd. (n.d.). FACTSHEET 11 Boiler Location, Combustion & Ventilation. Retrieved from http://www.heatbaseoilservices.co.uk/documents/FactSheet11BoilerLocationcombustionandventilation_000.pdf
- BuildHub Self Build Forum. (2022). Relocating boiler to under stairs cupboard. Retrieved from https://forum.buildhub.org.uk/topic/28872-relocating-boiler-to-under-stairs-cupboard/
- Boards.ie. (2010). Can I fit a gas boiler under the stairs – drawing included. Retrieved from https://www.boards.ie/discussion/2056059695/can-i-fit-a-gas-boiler-under-the-stairs-drawing-included
- Screwfix Community Forum. (2015). Gas boiler under stairs. Retrieved from https://community.screwfix.com/threads/gas-boiler-under-stairs.159217/
- DIYnot Forums. (2013). Boiler installation under stairs. Retrieved from https://www.diynot.com/diy/threads/boiler-installation-under-stairs.372995/