Boiler/Combi Boiler move into the loft/attic

PaDE · 23 Oct 2017 at 20:29

We are doing a layout re-jig in our annex to create a utility room. There's a boiler that I'd really like shifting to create more cupboard space.

Directly above is the annex loft. Its not boarded but I intend to. I'd like to basically get someone in to moving it straight up. All the pipe work and electric etc. is already up there.

Has anyone ever done this, if so have you had any issues?

Cheers

mattyg · 23 Oct 2017 at 20:37

Takes a long time to get hot water all the way downstairs and then there is a lot of hot water going cold in the pipes that you need to run off again before you get more hot water.

PaDE · 23 Oct 2017 at 21:08

Forgot to mention, the annex is only ground floor.

The boiler will literally be moving upwards 4ft(ish) into that loft space. Only pipe work needed for water and gas is shortening.

bremen1874 · 23 Oct 2017 at 21:47

It should be fine.

When I replaced my old open flue system boiler with a modern combi I had it moved from the kitchen to the loft and it's been fine. It had to move anyway (was installed on an internal wall) but any additional water wastage is more than compensated for by the space gained.

You'd need to make the loft area safe for boiler servicing; proper ladder, flooring, lighting, etc. but that isn't difficult to achieve.

a1ex2001 · 24 Oct 2017 at 09:28

Shouldn't have any issues might need a frost thermostat upstairs just in case it gets a bit chilly up there, you will also need to make sure access is good as plumbers can be notoriously picky.

GeX · 24 Oct 2017 at 12:03

It needs to have proper loft ladder /access, be boarded and have a proper ceiling / top mounted light and switch. I intend to do similar when our boiler is replaced (It'll be moved approx 2m upwards on the same wall to put it in the loft)

PaDE · 24 Oct 2017 at 12:08

Cheers for the replies. Don't see why I didn't think of this before. Makes perfect sense if no issues involved.

Also removes the ugly condensate pipe trailing around outside. The move will enable it to run out straight into the guttering :-)

Hagar · 24 Oct 2017 at 12:36

PaDE said:
Cheers for the replies. Don't see why I didn't think of this before. Makes perfect sense if no issues involved.

Also removes the ugly condensate pipe trailing around outside. The move will enable it to run out straight into the guttering

Be careful, condensate is not rainwater or surface water runoff. Outlet should go into grey water sewer, ie sink grid ouside, it may not be the same, check with local regulations.

bremen1874 · 24 Oct 2017 at 12:53

True. You wouldn't be able to connect it to anything connected to surface water only drains.

My house has an internal foul stack that was visible within the loft which they connected into. No external pipework and much less chance of it freezing up.

PaDE · 24 Oct 2017 at 16:56

Ah! Interesting, I didn't know that, thanks.

I'm going to have to channel down to reach where it currently goes. Still it will be much neater.

nkata said:
Be careful, condensate is not rainwater or surface water runoff. Outlet should go into grey water sewer, ie sink grid ouside, it may not be the same, check with local regulations.

Hagar · 24 Oct 2017 at 17:01

PaDE said:
Ah! Interesting, I didn't know that, thanks.

I'm going to have to channel down to reach where it currently goes. Still it will be much neater.

You can run it internally, as long as it reaches the right drainage from the property (can be foul or 'grey' or mixed).