Boilers

Loading patterns

• The loading patterns of any boilers on site should be investigated.
  
  
• The boiler should be checked for frequency of operation at partial load.
  
  
• Boiler plant that is not needed in mild weather should be isolated and pilot lights turned off (where relevant).
  
  
• The feasibility of fitting a modular system should be investigated.
  
  

Sequencing

• Boiler operating patterns should be assessed.
  
  
• The boiler should be checked for frequency of operation at partial load.
  
  
• Boiler thermostats should be adjusted to use only the minimum number of boilers.
  
  
• An automatic sequence controller should be considered.
  
  

Optimisers

• The boiler on/off should be optimised.
  
  
• An optimiser should be fitted to boilers over 30kw.
  
  
• Internal and external sensors should be fully operational.
  
  
• Consideration should be given to installing an optimiser on air conditioning.
  
  

Maintenance

• If gas fired, a CORGI registered firm should be employed for boiler maintenance once a year.
  
  
• Oil fired plant should be serviced twice a year or more (should the flue gas temperatures be high).
  
  

Thermal insulation

• All pipework should be insulated.
  
  
• Valves and pipe joints should be fitted with insulation jackets.
  
  
• Insulation should always be replaced following repairs to pipes.
  
  

Compensation

• A compensator should be fitted to the heating system.
  
  
• Heating circuit flow temperature should be adjusted correctly.
  
  
• External temperature sensors should be checked to see if they are working correctly.
  
  

Frost protection

• Frost thermostats must be working correctly.
  
  
• External temperatures should be working correctly.
  
  
• Frost thermostats must be set correctly.
  
  
• All pipework must be insulated properly.
  
  

Water heating

• Point of use
  • Point of use heater should be considered for certain areas such as toilets, sinks etc.
    
    
• Storage systems
  • Hot water should be stored within an insulated tank.
  • Electric heating must be made as efficient as possible.
  • Should hot water be provided by gas or oil fired boiler, it may be cheaper to use off peak electricity - especially within the summer.
    
    
• Temperature
  • Maintain the temperature to 60° Celsius.
    
    
• Distribution
  • Avoid dead legs and have pipes as short as possible.
  • Lag all pipes, joints and valves.
    
    
• Taps
  • Fit spray restrictors on spray taps with excessively high flow rates.
  • Consider timer/sensor taps on taps that are left running.
  • Repair all dripping taps promptly.