To make sure your solid fuel boiler is working efficiently and safely, it's important to get it serviced regularly. This article explains how to keep your solid fuel boiler in top condition.
The open-flue function seen in solid fuel appliances is considered better for people's health. The flue removes waste products out of the home while drawing in fresh air. This constant cycle of air coupled with continuous heat has two direct benefits:
- Condensation and mould growth problems are kept to a minimum. These are common in many homes heated by gas and electric heating.
- Waste gases and particles are removed via the chimney. This may reduce bronchial disorders such as asthma and hay fever.
What happens during a solid fuel boiler service?
During the service, the boiler engineer will:
- Clean the burner/injector(s)
- Clean the pilot/injector
- Clean the flue-ways, including the draught diverter & heat exchanger
- Clean and adjust the ignition components
- Clean flame supervision components
- Clean, lubricate and adjust controls
- Check all disturbed connections
- Check all boiler seals and joints
- Check there are no obvious signs of damage to the wiring
- Re-set the burner operating pressure to that on the data label/plate
- Test open-flued boilers for spillage
- Re-check the flame supervision device operation
Sweep your chimney and flue
A vital part of a solid fuel boiler's function is keeping the chimney and flue swept.
Instead of accessing the chimney via an open fireplace (the normal method with an open fire), entry to the chimney is gained through the front door of a room heater or using a 'soot door', located in the flue pipe or chimney breast.
The cleaning process is finished by sweeping out and vacuuming the boiler's interior.