Managing Your Appliances
TOP TIPS
Many heating appliances are expected to "work" 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, keeping us warm and supplied with constant hot water.
However, like any other equipment, they work better and last longer when correctly installed, burn the right fuel and are properly maintained.
Further information on suitable companies can be provided by the organisations listed within each fuel type.
Keep warm and safe by taking the simple steps below.
1. THE RIGHT FUEL
In order to get the best value for money it is important to burn the right fuel in your appliance. Coal and wood should be the correct size and moisture content, oil should be the proper grade (mostly 28 Seconds) and gas should be matched to the appliance. If you are in any doubt about which fuel is suitable for your particular appliance, please contact the organisations listed within each fuel type.
2. AIR SUPPLY
All fuels require an adequate supply of air to make them burn correctly. If too little air is available, fumes that are harmful to your family may escape into the room. Never seal up flues, chimneys, air bricks or ventilation grills, you may be putting your family at risk. Again seek advice if you are in any doubt.
3. FLUE-WAY CLEANING
Many solid fuel fired appliances have flue-ways through which the hot gases pass to the chimney. These flue-ways should be swept clean every month to remove any soot or ash. Some stoves and roomheaters have a removable/drop down plate in the top of the fire box - this should also be removed and cleaned once a month. Remember; always let the fire go out the day before cleaning.
4. CHIMNEY SWEEPING
All chimneys must be swept at least once a year preferably by a NIACS registered sweep or other approved sweep. However, if your appliance is used continuously throughout the year or burns wood and coal more frequent sweeping is recommended. The best time to have your chimney swept is at the start of the heating season. It is also strongly recommended that the chimney be swept after any prolonged period when the appliance has not been used, e.g. holidays, etc. Remember these recommendations apply even if you burn smokeless fuels.
5. APPLIANCE SERVICING
It is VITALLY important to ensure that new installations are carried out by recognised and established engineers and serviced by competent companies or individuals. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for boilers, stoves, gas fires and solid fuel room heaters. HSENI recommends a service at least once a year depending on the fuel being used.
