Boiler in the bedroom: Is It safe & how do I disguise it?

Here at HomeServe, we can install boilers in a variety of places within the household. Unbeknownst to some, the bedroom is amongst these options. The first question that usually pops into homeowners’ minds upon hearing this is, “Is it safe to install your boiler in the bedroom?”

The answer to this question is usually yes, however there are a number of factors that you must consider. If you’d like to find out more about bedroom boilers and the mandatory requirements of having one installed, read on to discover how we can help you select the best option for you.

A boiler in the bedroom is often ideal for those who don’t have an ample amount of space in other areas of their property. Although some boilers can be large and clunky, the compact nature of products such as the Worcester Bosch Greenstar Si Compact range, make it easy for you to hide your boiler in a wardrobe or cupboard.

How to disguise a boiler

Boiler cupboards are a popular means of disguising boilers within the home. A simple and easy task, you can apply DIY to fit a cupboard around your boiler system. You could complete this task by using the same wardrobe nits as your existing decor to ensure that your new addition doesn’t stand out. Alternatively, you could hire a carpenter to come and do the job professionally. Whichever option you choose, remember to ensure that the boiler is left easily accessible, just in case you need a repair or service.

Ensuring that your bedroom boiler is safe

Many homeowners refuse to have their boiler systems installed in their bedrooms due to safety concerns. Although there are valid grounds for these concerns, installing a bedroom boiler could be a safe option as long as the mandatory procedures surrounding their installation are abided by. The main regulation that must be followed is the requirement for the boiler to be room-sealed. This means that the boiler system takes the air that it uses for combustion from outside, as well as only emitting its fumes outside through the flue, which makes the boiler safe to be in a room where people sleep. Most modern boiler systems are room-sealed but it is always a good idea to double check this before you have your boiler installed in the bedroom.

Factors to consider before you get your boiler installed in the bedroom

Although installing a boiler into your bedroom is a decision that some homeowners are happy with, others have found it to bring a number of inconveniences. It is therefore important that you take into consideration the downfalls of this option before you make your decision. These could include but may not be limited to:

>  Noise – Despite the fact that modern day boiler systems tend to be much quieter than their predecessors, some boilers may still make a certain degree of noise which can disrupt sleep. If you’re a light sleeper, you may be better off having your boiler installed elsewhere.

>  Risk of carbon monoxide – A faulty boiler could leak carbon monoxide, which can be poisonous. CO is produced when organic, carbon-based fuels like gas or oil don’t burn completely, and if inhaled this substance can be fatal. According to the NHS, carbon monoxide poisoning leads to around 25 deaths per year in England and Wales**. It is therefore especially essential that you get your boiler serviced regularly if you decide to have your boiler installed inside your bedroom. A CO detector is a safety option that could benefit your household as it is designed to provide an alert when it senses carbon monoxide in the air.

>  Less space – Despite most modern boilers being compact, they will fill a certain amount of space within your bedroom. It would therefore be wise to think about whether you have enough room in your bedroom to have a boiler installed.