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5 Boiler Maintenance Tips You Should Follow

If you’re concerned about your boiler and future issues you may have to face, then you have come to the right place. Here at Kiasu Workforce, we want to help our customers with regular and efficient maintenance that keeps repair costs down and eliminates your worries.

But why is boiler maintenance important for your business, and why should you care?

 

Why is Boiler Maintenance Important?

Boilers are an integral part of every property, whether it’s a residential home or a commercial business, they’re crucial in the day-to-day running of a building. They create heating, power and electricity, depending on the type of boiler you decide to have installed. They keep our radiators warm and our water running hot exactly when needed.

From time to time, boilers can become costly. If you have ever had to call out a specialist for a boiler-related emergency, you will know why. This is where we recommend that you keep on top of your boiler maintenance to keep the pennies in your pocket and avoid any future accidents.

 

5 Boiler Maintenance Tips

If boilers aren’t looked after properly, they can become faulty and unfortunately, in the worst-case scenario, a faulty boiler can even be fatal. This is why keeping on top of regular maintenance can prevent costly fixes and emergency repairs that might have been avoidable.

To help you, we put together our top five boiler maintenance tips that we recommend that you follow to keep your boiler running efficiently and thus, your business running efficiently.

 

#1 Maintain Regular Boiler Servicing

Every boiler should, at the very minimum, have a service yearly, according to British Gas. This service should be carried out by a trained professional who can ensure that it’s working correctly.

A Gas Safe engineer will be able to fully assess your boiler’s current condition. From this, they can make any adjustments that can make it run more efficiently. They will also note any cause for concern and ensure that you receive the correct solutions.

Boiler servicing is one of the fundamental parts of boiler maintenance. As they see a lot more use in the colder months of the year, they need to be in the best condition possible.

 

#2 Prevent Pipes Freezing

Frozen pipes can be a big danger to boilers as they can block the system, allowing pressure to be built up within the boiler.

When the weather is cold, ensure that you have the heating on for at least a couple of hours a day just so the pipes are kept to a temperature that won’t allow for freezing to occur. Even in the warmer months when we don’t tend to use the heating as much, it’s a good idea to do this to ensure everything is running smoothly.

 

#3 Leak Awareness

A leaking boiler is more common than you would think, so it’s important to be regularly checked for any signs of leakage as they will be cheaper to fix the earlier they are spotted.

Leaks are dangerous as they can cause rust in the system and also electrical faults, so they must be dealt with as soon as they are spotted.Check the cupboard where your boiler lives every so often to ensure there are no signs of a leak.

 

#4 Check Ventilation Regularly

Like anything else, your boiler needs room to breathe so it can work properly.

Ensure that your boiler is free of any clutter that may surround it, as it needs the space to do its job well. If it is in a cupboard that is also used for storage, ensure that other items are well out of the way so that they do not cause any ventilation issues that could lead to further boiler damage.

 

#5 Bleed Your Radiators

Although not directly boiler-related, your radiators not heating up is a sign of possible boiler damage. To ensure you don’t jump the gun in this situation, it is best to bleed your radiators every once in a while.

Bleeding your radiators gets rid of any condensed air that can sometimes get trapped and will often result in the pressure gage in your boiler reducing. You can read more details about boiler pressure in your boiler manual.

Find out how to bleed your radiators in our handy guide.

 

Is It a Legal Requirement to Service your Boiler?

For homeowners, regular annual services of your boiler are not legally required. However, they are usually a requirement put in place by your insurance provider. Failing to maintain regular maintenance checks and services could mean your insurance policy is invalidated.

For landlords, regular boiler services are a legal requirement. 

 

Further Boiler Help & Advice

Ensure you are up to date with annual boiler services with the help of our expert and experienced team at Kiasu Workforce. Our certified Gas Safe engineers can help you with expert advice and guidance following your annual boiler service, including offering information on any relevant or needed next steps.

Find out more about the boiler services we can offer in London today, and contact our teamfor further help and advice.

Alternatively, why not discover how we can assist you with boiler installation, repair and replacement work?

 

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Maintain My Boiler?

Regular maintenance tasks involve monitoring pressure levels, inspecting for leaks or signs of damage, bleeding radiators, cleaning, replacing filters and annual servicing by a qualified heating engineer.

These simple yet effective tasks help to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your boiler. If you do not fancy carrying out these tasks, hiring a M&E contractor is recommended as they will upkeep and improve system performance, extending its lifespan and lowering the risk of breakdowns.

Why Boiler Maintenance is Important?

Boiler maintenance is crucial for prolonging the lifespan of the boiler; it helps prevent unexpected breakdowns and maintains safety by identifying and addressing potential hazards. Poorly maintained boilers can have serious consequences such as gas leaks or carbon monoxide emissions making your boiler dangerous and inciting emergencies. It is recommended that you hire a M&E contractor to inspect, identify and solve any issues that your boiler may have regularly.

How Often Should Boiler Maintenance Be Done?

Ideally boiler maintenance should be conducted annually by a qualified engineer. They should thoroughly inspect, clean and service the system. The planned maintenance programme should involve regular checks and tasks throughout the year to monitor performance and address any minor issues. This strategy will maximise the efficiency and reliability of your boiler.

What is Portable Appliance Testing (PAT)?

If you have found yourself asking, “What is PAT Testing?” you have come to the right place. Here at Kiasu Workforce, we are pleased to present a comprehensive guide to PAT testing. Starting with the answer to your burning question.

Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) is the periodic inspection of electrical equipment to identify defects. You’ve probably seen one of those little green stickers on a toaster, kettle, washing machine or tumble dryer. It means the appliance has undergone electrical testing and is safe to use. These stickers are commonplace in our day-to-day lives and ensure the public’s safety while using electrical appliances.

But sometimes, knowing the definition of PAT testing is not enough, so here is some more information to ensure you’re fully informed on the importance of PAT testing. 

 

Is PAT Testing a legal requirement?

By law, electrical appliances in business premises must be safe for use (as per the HSE’s Electricity at Work Regulations 1989). PAT testing allows businesses to comply with this legal requirement. 

There is no legal requirement to carry out PAT inspections at home. Still, it’s always worth keeping electrical safety in mind.

There are seven categories of appliances that should be considered for PAT testing:

  • Fixed equipment
  • Stationary equipment
  • IT equipment
  • Moveable appliances
  • Portable appliances
  • Cables & chargers
  • Handheld appliances

 

What is the difference between movable and portable appliances?

In this case, “moveable” means something which plugs into a socket and can be unplugged and moved around easily. “Portable” means something designed for use on the go.

 

Traditional vs visual examination methods

Most defects can be found through visual examination methods, but some types can only be found by testing. Visual examinations are still necessary because some types of electrical safety defects can’t be detected through traditional testing methods.

Visual inspection and testing by a competent person may be required, depending upon the type of equipment and the environment in which it is used.

 

How frequently do I need to test my electrical appliances?

Most people do not know how often PAT Testing should be done. Some appliances must be tested more often, such as well-used, often knocked or easily damaged appliances. It is recommended that risk assessments are carried out regularly to determine how frequently each appliance should be tested and the type of test needed.

The frequency of inspection and testing depends upon the type of equipment and the environment it is used in. For example, a power tool used on a construction site should be examined more frequently than a lamp in a hotel bedroom.

A record and labelling can be useful management tools for monitoring and reviewing the effectiveness of the maintenance scheme and for demonstrating that a scheme exists.

New equipment should be supplied in a safe condition and not require a formal portable appliance inspection or test. A simple visual check will verify the item is free of damage.

 

What are the classes of electrical equipment?

Electrical appliances are generally categorised as classes 1, 2 or 3, with Class 1 being the most dangerous and Class 3 the least dangerous. Class 1 appliances need a full PAT inspection, Class 2 appliances need an insulation test, and Class 3 appliances are safe enough not to require testing. However, a visual test may be carried out.

 

Class 1 Appliances

This type of electrical equipment has only basic insulation and relies on an earth for protection. Examples include washing machines, tumble dryers, computers, kitchen equipment and extension leads.

Class 2 Appliances

This type of electrical equipment has extra insulation. It doesn’t rely on an earth for protection, which makes it safer. E.g. lawnmowers, televisions, drills, hairdryers and lamps.

Class 3 Appliances

Class 3 appliances, such as laptops, torches and cameras, are the safest class of electrical appliances due to the low voltages involved. Their charging leads may require tests.

 

How is Portable Appliance Testing carried out?

Many people do not know how to PAT Test. Those carrying out PAT testing do require a level of knowledge and experience. The right equipment is also necessary, as is the ability to understand the test results properly.

Testing required depends on the type of appliance. The electrician must carry out risk assessments to ensure equipment can be tested safely.

Another important consideration in ensuring the user’s safety is the order in which these tests are carried out. The sequence should always be:

  1. Earth continuity test
  2. Insulation resistance test
  3. Protective conductor/touch current test or alternative/substitute leakage test
  4. Functional Check

An insulation test should always come before attempting any tests which involve applying mains power to the equipment under test. It may detect a dangerous insulation failure.

The recommendations given by the IET Code of Practice for In-Service Testing of Electrical Equipment are as follows:

Class I Appliances

  1. Earth continuity test
  2. Insulation resistance test or protective conductor current test, or alternative/substitute leakage test
  3. Functional checks

Class II Appliances

  1. Insulation resistance test or touch current test, or alternative/substitute leakage test
  2. Functional checks 

 

How Much Does PAT Testing Cost?

The cost of PAT testing depends primarily on the number of electrical items that will need to be tested in the workplace. A PAT Test also needs to be carried out to the highest standard to ensure the safety of people in the workplace, so it can be time-consuming.

Prices can vary based on the number of items being tested and the time this will take, so it is best to enquire and get a personal quote. Contact our expert team today and email us to enquire.

 

Can I carry out PAT inspections myself?

A “competent person” can legally carry out testing. This person should have adequate knowledge of electricity and experience in electrical work. They need to know how to carry out both the visual inspection and PAT test, plus understand the hazards.

They should also know the precautions to take when PAT testing and be able to decide whether it’s safe for PAT testing to continue.

Suppose you are concerned about the competency required for PAT testing. In that case, you may feel more comfortable contracting a qualified electrician to carry out PAT procedures. This is especially important where multiple items must be PAT tested, or class 1 appliances require testing.

 

Book PAT Testing Today 

We can help you with a variety of electrical works at Kiasu Workforce, including expert PAT testing in London. 

Our team of qualified and experienced electricians are on hand to ensure capable and competent PAT testing for all appliances on your site.  We can also offer further guidance on appliances that do not pass the PAT test, as well as advise on when PAT testing should be carried out again in line with legal safety compliance. 

Get in touch with our team today to learn more about how we can help you with PAT testing. 

 

Related

PAT testing explained: Everything you need to know

A complete guide to PAT testing for businesses

Workplace safety: Is your business fully certified?