First Published: November 13, 2023. Updated: November 13, 2023
Can a combi boiler go in the garage?
Yes. Garages are a common choice for a place to install boilers. People like them in garages because it saves losing a kitchen cupboard or space in a utility room. But there are a couple of things that need to be taken into account before it’s installed.
The garage will need to have suitable insulation to ensure the space doesn’t get too cold. Unlike the rest of a home, it has a large and relatively thin metal door which doesn’t insulate very well.
If the boiler gets too cold it could freeze and cause major damage. Most boilers have internal thermostats that would kick the boiler on to help prevent freezing, but the best course of action would be to remove the potential altogether.
Even though the boiler is in the garage it will still need proper ventilation outside along with a condensing outflow pipe to a drain or soakaway. This is due to building regulations that came out in 2005.
No matter where the boiler is located it must be accessible for engineers to be able to come and service it.
A garage could also potentially be less well ventilated or sealed than the rest of the house. This means that the boiler could be subject to damp air potentially causing corrosion reducing the lifespan of the boiler.
What are the pros and cons of a combi boiler in the garage?
Advantages
- Space – Reduced space requirements in the living areas (kitchen, utility, bathroom etc).
- Easier pipework concealment.
- Out of sight, out of mind.
Disadvantages
- Hot water delay – the further away the boiler, the longer it will take to provide hot water. When turning on the tap the pipe-run from the boiler to that tap will need to empty of cold water whilst the combi boiler is getting up to speed, then once you have finished using the hot water you will have that same length of pipe full of hot water going cold.
- Freezing – Potential of freezing due to the colder garage environment.
- Unlikely possible in detached garages.
- Increased corrosion due to the colder environment.
- It may be less convenient to top the boiler up if it loses pressure or reset it if it doesn’t start up.
If the relocation area is properly prepared for boiler installation, with adequate insulation, safety regulations being met, and the boiler equipped with anti-frost protection, then a garage is a good option for housing your new boiler.
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