Blog

Summer Maintenance Starts Here

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 10:52:26 GMT

As the warmer months approach, you may switch off your central heating without a second thought. While it’s great to save on your energy bills, completely neglecting your heating system over the summer can lead to problems when you need it again in the autumn. To keep your system in the best working condition, here’s our top 10 tips on what you should do during the summer months.

1. Run your heating occasionally

It might sound counterproductive, but turning your heating on for a short period once a month can prevent components from seizing up. When left inactive for months, parts like the pump and motorised valves can become stiff or stuck, leading to potential breakdowns when the colder weather returns.

2. Check and bleed your radiators

Even though you’re not using your heating much, summer is the perfect time to check for cold spots and bleed your radiators if necessary. This helps remove trapped air, ensuring your system runs efficiently when it’s needed again. If you’re not sure how, watch the video below: How to Bleed a radiator in 8 easy steps | Baxi guides

3. Book a boiler service

Summer is the ideal time to schedule your annual boiler service. Heating engineers are often less busy, so you’ll have an easier time securing an appointment. Servicing your boiler ensures it’s working safely and efficiently, reducing the risk of unexpected breakdowns when you switch it back on.

4. Inspect and clean your magnetic filter

If your system has a magnetic filter, summer is a great time to have it cleaned. This filter helps capture sludge and debris that can build up in your system, reducing the risk of blockages and improving efficiency. Your heating engineer can clean it during your annual service.

5. Check and top up inhibitor levels

The annual service is also a good time for your heating engineer to check and top up the chemical inhibitor levels that prevent corrosion and sludge buildup. Over time, the concentration can diminish, so it’s a good idea for them to test the water quality and top up the inhibitor if needed. This will help protect your boiler, radiators, and pipes from internal damage.

6. Consider a system flush if needed

If you’ve noticed ongoing issues like noisy pipes, cold spots on radiators, or slow heating, tell your heating engineer during your annual service. Summer is a great time to have your system power-flushed to remove built-up sludge and debris, improving efficiency and extending the life of your heating system.

7. Check your water pressure

Your boiler’s water pressure can drop over time, which can cause heating inefficiencies. Check the pressure gauge on your boiler and top it up if needed, following the manufacturer’s instructions. If you’re unsure, your heating engineer can help during the service or watch our handy video here:

8. Ensure your thermostat is working correctly

A faulty thermostat can lead to inefficient heating when the colder months return. Test your thermostat during the summer to ensure it responds correctly to temperature changes. If it’s outdated, consider upgrading to a smart thermostat to improve efficiency and control.

9. Check your carbon monoxide alarm

Even when your heating is off, it’s essential to ensure your carbon monoxide alarm is functioning. Test it regularly and replace batteries if needed. If you don’t already have one, installing a carbon monoxide alarm is a crucial safety measure for any home with a gas appliance.

10. Insulate your pipes

While summer might not seem like the time to think about insulation, adding pipe lagging now can prevent heat loss in winter. This simple step helps maintain efficiency and reduces energy bills when the heating season starts again.

And finally…

Taking care of your heating system during the summer ensures it’s in peak condition for when you need it most. A ongoing maintenance plan is an option for those looking for piece of mind.

A little ongoing maintenance now can help prevent costly repairs, improve efficiency, and give you peace of mind that your home will be warm and comfortable when the cold weather returns. So, before you completely forget about your heating system, take a few simple steps to keep it in great shape all year round!

Source: https://www.baxi.co.uk/about/baxi-at-home-blog/

Safe as Houses: Landlords' Gas Safety Record Checks

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 12:02:50 GMT

Gas Safe Register's Technical Team explain what needs to be looked at during an annual landlord's gas safety check.

When instructing a gas safe registered engineer to issue a gas safety certificate on a rental property, here is what should be checked and what information must be captured, to ensure the check complies with regulations:

Visual inspection of the gas installation, appliance(s) location, terminal chimney/flue route/position and signs of incomplete combustion.
Appliance operating pressure or heat input, or both where necessary, if it is not reasonably practicable to carry out either of these checks, then you can rely on the combustion analysis.
Ventilation is clear and sufficiently sized.
Flue flow and spillage testing where appropriate for correct operation of flue.
All flame supervision devices and/or other safety controls for correct operation.
Investigate any evidence of unsafe operation of appliances.
The landlord or responsible person must be notified of any defects.
It is recommended that the gas meter and emergency control valve should be checked also.

What information must be recorded?

The date on which the appliance or chimney/flue was checked.
The address of the premises at which the appliance or flue is installed.
The name and address of the landlord or agent at which the appliance or chimney/flue are installed.
A description of the location of each appliance or chimney/flue that has been checked.
Any gas safety issues identified and any remedial action take.
This record must be retained until two further checks of the appliance or chimney/flue have been made or, if an appliance or flue has been removed from the premises, the record must be kept for a period of two years from the date of the last check.
Confirmation that all safety details are recorded and comply with regulations.
The engineers name, signature and gas safe number.

What about Tenants' own appliances?

It is not a requirement to record a tenant's own appliance. If the landlord requests a tenant's appliances are record, a visual inspection should be carried out and no further checks are required.

Landlords can arrange for gas safety checks to be carried out at any time 10-12 calendar moths after the previous gas safety check.

Source:

Gas Engineer Magazine January/February 2026

Energy Efficiency - Next Steps

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 14:01:16 GMT

The UK government have outlined new proposals on upgrading the efficiency of heating appliances.

The Government is consulting on a range of measures that is says will improve energy efficiency and save money for households buying gas boilers and heat pumps (including hybrids) and their controls.

Building on the findings of the Boiler Plus Review and previous consultations, its proposed measures include some of the following:

All gas combi boilers under 45kW to be able to modulate their maximum output down to 15% without on/off cycling by mid-2028.
Larger domestic combi boilers (32kW-45kW) to modulate their maximum output down to 10% without on/off cycling by mid-2028.
All combi boilers to be supplied with a 60 degree low flow temperature factory default setting by mid-2026.
Removing simple on-off boiler controls by mid-2026.

The Government has acknowledged that a flow temperature of 55 degrees may not be suitable for all households, and that a higher flow temperature of 65 degrees may be needed for households with people over 65 or with health conditions.

Basic boiler controls will not be sufficient for any heating types after mid-2026. These included standard on/off controls as well as weather compensation controls that use external sensors only, which the government says are not commonly used.

When it comes to heat pumps, it proposes to amend and introduce definitions of low, medium and high-temperature heat pumps and increase and introduce minimum efficiency requirements for each temperature.

For the first time, hybrid systems will be formally defined as "a system of space heating, or space and water heating, that contains an electric an electric heat pump, another heater which is not an electric heat pump, and a master control which determines, based on operating conditions, the heat output of each of the heaters" The Government proposes introducing minimum efficiency requirements for hybrid heat pumps at medium-temperature application (55 degrees) from mid-2027.

Source: Gas Safe Magazine

Merry Christmas from DA Bunning Gas

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 13:46:16 GMT

It is with deep sadness that we start our Christmas message this year with the devastating news regarding our colleague and dear friend, Haydon Perrins, who sadly passed away on the 11th December.

Although Haydon worked with us for a short period of time, he was more than just a member of the team, he was a breath of fresh air. He always had a 'can do attitude' with a smile on his face. To say we are heartbroken is an understatement, and Haydon will be sorely missed.

Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with Haydon's family and loved ones during this extremely difficult time. We are profoundly grateful for the time we shared with Haydon, and for the lasting impact he has made on our lives and our organisation. H is legacy will continue to live on in our hearts.

As 2025 draws to a close, it's been another extremely busy one for us, which as always we are hugely appreciative of!

It's been one of our busiest years for new boiler installs, and between September and December we managed a massive 19 boilers!! I think it's safe to say Dale and Josh are looking forward to a little rest over the festive period.

Please be aware of our Christmas opening times, outlined below:

Tuesday 23rd December - Closing at 2.30pm

Wednesday 24th December - Sunday 4th January - Closed (During this time we will be working limited hours, for emergencies only: 07957630550, any other queries will be dealt with on our return)

FOR ANY GAS LEAKS PLEASE CALL WALES AND WEST: Freephone 0800111999 (available 24 hours)

Monday 5th January - Open normal hours

We would like to thank you all for your continued support and custom, we look forward to being of service to you all again in 2026!

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year - The DA Bunning Team x

Are You Winter Ready?

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 11:57:13 GMT

How to protect your Boiler in winter

As the nights draw in and the days get cooler, your Boiler’s workload increases significantly.

However, you may not have had your heating on for months. Ageing pipes, lower boiler pressure, grime building up inside your central heating system – there’s plenty that can happen over time that can reduce the effectiveness or even damage your boiler.

Maintain your boiler with an annual Boiler service

A lot of people skip their annual boiler service, but it’s so important! A healthy boiler makes for a healthy home, and servicing it will extend the life of your boiler for perhaps years. You’ll save money in the long run, and avoid the headache of boiler breakdowns and problems.

Think of an annual boiler service like servicing your car: any problems will be noticed by a professional long before you break down in the middle of nowhere. A heating engineer will thoroughly inspect and test key components of your boiler to ensure it is working safely, efficiently and reliably.

Check your Boiler pressure

This will be done during your annual boiler service, but on the off-chance you skipped that, check your boiler pressure before switching your central heating on for the winter.

We have an in-depth guide for checking boiler pressure, which you should definitely read thoroughly, but in short: make sure your pressure gauge is between 1 – 1.5 bar, otherwise your boiler will start to show error codes, or stop working entirely. If your boiler pressure is too low, top up the pressure until it reaches at least 1 bar. If it’s too high, you should bleed your radiators to relieve pressure.

Bleed your radiators

No matter how perfectly sealed your central heating system is, over time air will get inside and start making a nuisance of itself. This might result in cold areas of your radiator (usually the top). If you have, then it is time to bleed your radiator.

Bleeding your radiators is easy – all you need is a radiator key (easily available online or from your local DIY store) and an old towel or rag. We explain how to bleed your radiators in our article here.

Test your central heating before it gets too cold

One of the best tips to make sure your boiler is ready for winter is to test it before the weather gets too cold. So, around October or early November, just as it’s starting to chill, you should test your heating. Better to do that than wait until the weather is too cold to find out your heating’s kaput.

While it’s still mild outside, test your central heating. Run it for a few hours; make sure the radiators warm thoroughly, and there are no cold spots. Check for tell-tale signs of something amiss: are there clanking or gurgling sounds coming from your boiler? If so, there may be an internal problem with your boiler: an annual boiler service will find what’s wrong. You should also check the control elements of your boiler, providing it has them.

Insulate your pipes

A cold snap can wreak havoc on your pipes, especially if they’re old. The best way to make sure ‘how do I get my boiler ready for winter?’ is to look after the pipes that connect to your boiler.

You need to insulate your pipes to protect them from the freezing cold. Especially the pipes outside your home. These are exposed to the elements, and are prone to freezing. One of the best tips to make sure your boiler is ready for winter is to take steps to stop your pipes from freezing.

If you have a condensing boiler (a boiler that captures hot gasses and uses them to create more heat), the wastewater vapour from the condensing process flows out of your home slowly (about 2 litres an hour). This slow trickle makes them prone to freezing in sub-zero temperatures.

Insulating exposed pipes with lagging will go a long way to stop this from happening. A frozen condensate pipe can damage a boiler and even break it, so insulating it from the cold weather would be a very savvy decision.

Source: www.baxi.co.uk

Get ready for Gas Safety Week

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 13:07:55 GMT

The 15th Gas Safety Week will take place on 8th - 14th September 2025

Our industry's biggest annual campaign is just around the corner!

As always, Gas Safety Week sees the whole industry unite to raise awareness of gas safety and to encourage people to book an annual gas safety check with a gas safe engineer.

This year's theme will emphasise that everyone has a role in keeping the nation gas safe and that we can all make a difference. "Looking after you home, friends and family" will be driving home the message - whether people are responsible for their own family's gas safety or for properties they manage, as well as looking out for older relatives, and young adults who have moved out for higher education or to their first home.

Gas Safety Week is an ideal opportunity to share information and knowledge, even among those who are not directly responsible for gas safety.

Source:

Gas Engineer Magazine Issue 186 July/August 2025

Illegal Gas Work

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 13:12:48 GMT

and why you should report it...

Gas Safe Register's Investigations Team looks at the many forms of illegal gas work and the reasons why you should report it when you discover it.

Illegal gas work is any work that falls within the scope of the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998 that has been carried out by anyone who is not registered or does not hold the appropriate ACS qualifications. Working illegally can take many forms, including:

Someone who has no qualifications to fit or work on a gas appliance.
Someone who is registered but working outside the scope of their competencies.
Someone who was previously registered but not when undertaking gas work.
A business or engineer carrying out gas work when they have been suspended from the register.
Someone working outside the business with which they are registered.
A registered business using unregistered and unsupervised operatives.

Why should I report it?

Reporting illegal gas work is a requirement under Gas Safe Register's Rules of Registration. The rules state that a registered business and any of its engineers carrying out gas work on its behalf must ensure that:

Nothing is done that would contribute to unsafe gas work or illegal activities.
The registered is notified of any concerns about unsafe gas work carried out by others, registered or otherwise, as soon as possible.
The Register is notified of any evidence of illegal gas work found.

How do i report illegal gas work?

Gas Safe Register has simplified its online form to make it easier to report illegal gas work. You can submit the form anonymously, however if you are happy to provide your own details, Gas Safe Register may contact you for more information. Where possible the following information is required:

The unregistered engineers name and business name.
Contact details of the unregistered engineer.
Address of where the gas work has taken place.
The customer's name and contact details.

Here are some examples of questionable works:

If you find work that you think may have been carried out illegally, you can report it by filling in the "Report Illegal Gas Workers" form at: www.gassageregister.co.uk/gas-safety/concerns-reporting-illegal-gas-work or you can call the Register on 08004085577.

Source:

Gas Engineer Magazine Issue 186 July/August 2025

Summer Newsletter - 2025

Wed, 02 Jul 2025 10:33:02 GMT

Our year so far....

It has been another busy start to the year for us, which as always is greatly appreciated and never taken for granted. The number of boiler installations and new central heating systems seems to be at a record high this year, and after such a busy winter period, it has prompted Dale to start the recruitment process of an Apprentice Domestic Gas Engineer. We hope to have someone in place before Winter 2025 sets in.

We are pleased to say that we have sponsored and are due to sponsor a few local events this year including: Oswestry Community Games, Bridgnorth Regatta, Llanfyllin and Guilsfield Shows. Oswestry Community Games took place on Sunday 8th June in Cae Glas Park, and was a great community event with many sports clubs/organisations involved. We also provided some personalised water bottles, mini footballs and drawstring bags for participants at the event, which went down a treat!

(Pictured below are Oswestry Community Games organisers from left to right: Kelly, James and Clive)

With Labour in charge following the general election, below was their statement with regard to Clean Power with a short video around the creation of GB Energy.

D.A Bunning Gas - Team Updates

Back in September of last year we welcomed Vicky Fleet to the admin team, due to Sam starting her new role. Vicky has been a great addition to the team, and is a whizz on the phone with customers!

As mentioned already we are currently in the process of recruiting an Apprentice Domestic Gas Engineer, and we are interviewing candidates as we speak. Hopefully, we will be able to introduce the newest member of the team to you over the next coming months.

Josh went over to the BAXI Training Centre in Warrington on the 18th June to spend the day looking at fault finding. During the day Josh was exposed to some hands-on experience with the latest range of BAXI boilers, and covered topics that ensured we stay compliant with the latest updates on Boiler Plus and ErP. There was also the opportunity to talk to our local BAXI representatives about their latest campaigns - a very worth while day!

Gas Safety Week 8th - 14th September 2025

Gas Safety Week will be taking place 8th-14th September 2025. Celebrating its fifteenth year, this pan-industry event sees everyone coming together for one common goal — keeping the nation gas safe.

Top tips to stay safe!

W e will be supporting Gas Safety Week, so watch this space as to what we have planned!

DURING THE MONTH OF JULY 2025...

Running alongside the Women's Euros 2025, we will be giving you the opportunity to WIN an array of prizes, such as:

A FREE single gas appliance service
10% Discount Cards off a single gas appliance service
Mini footballs
Drawstring Bags
Water Bottles
All you have to do is LIKE and SHARE this post on our Facebook page ! How easy is that! Happy clicking

Terms & Conditions:
Closes on the 31st July, 2025 at 12.00pm. 1 entry per person. The winners will be chosen at random via an online selection tool. The free service and 10% service discount are valid for 12 months from the 31st July, 2025. any additional parts or work identified at the time of service will be charged at full price. Winners will need to collect prizes from our offices in Whittington. UK entrants only (Oswestry and surrounding areas)

Boiler Temperatures

Wed, 21 May 2025 10:11:25 GMT

What temperature should my Boiler be set at?

Boilers come in all shapes and sizes, with lots of features or just a few. If you want to know what temperature should a condensing boiler be set at, or any kind of boiler, this guide will give you a good idea.

An important thing to consider: Setting your boiler’s temperature higher will give you hot radiators, but it could decrease its efficiency. Ramping up the temp to max could decrease it by up to 20%, and send your heating bills skyrocketing. If you want a lovely warm home and a long-lasting boiler, it’s about getting the right balance.

What temperature should my boiler be set at in winter?

We all want to stay cosy in the winter. Some cosier than others. There’s no magic number for the ideal temperature. If you’re looking for a good balance of warmth and efficiency, you want to set your boiler to at least 65°C. Setting it a few degrees higher won’t hurt. But it’s important not to set it any lower than that. This is so bacteria in the water doesn’t grow, and cause nasty things like Legionella.

For those who like things hot, it is tempting to set your boiler temp higher in the winter. However, there is a chance this will start to stress out your boiler. An overworked boiler will likely have a reduced lifespan, decreased efficiency, and be more prone to breakdowns and repairs.

What temperature should my boiler be set at in summer?

In summer, you’re less likely to have the radiators on. If you are, you’ll probably not want them to be radiating at the heat of a blast furnace. Like in winter, if you want to know what temperature a condensing boiler should be set at, make sure it’s no lower than 65°C.

This inhibits the growth of harmful bacteria in your water supply, so keep it at 65°C and no lower.

What is the best temperature setting for central heating?

When it comes to setting room temperature, the sweet spot is between 18°C and 21°C. This is within most people’s comfort zone. For bedroom temperatures, if possible, you want it around 16°C to 19°C. This is the best temperature for a good night’s sleep, according to the Sleep Foundation. Keeping the thermostat between those limits is the best temperature setting for central heating, and makes for a happy, comfortable home.

Source: www.baxi.co.uk

Powerflushing

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 12:04:16 GMT

What is Powerflushing and how can it help your central heating system?

If sludge and debris is not removed from heating systems, it can accumulate in radiators, pipework and heat exchangers, causing severe blockages. This diminishes the transfer of heat and can result in pipe, radiator valve and heating control servo valve damage. In some cases this will eventually lead to the premature failure of the boiler.

Powerflushing is a popular method of cleaning and maintaining a central heating system. A powerflushing unit sends water at high velocity through the system to dislodge and remove debris, limescale, and sludge build-up. A thorough powerflush will improve heat distribution throughout the property, subsequently lowering household energy bills and increasing system reliability.

The summer months are an ideal time to get a powerflush on your heating system if you feel sludge and dirty water is effecting the systems efficiency. Call us today to book an appointment.

Below is a short video looking at how powerflushing works and it's benefits. Call today to book in an appointment

Source: fernox.com

Lowering Heating Bills

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 12:58:57 GMT

How to lower heating bills in a high cost climate.

Sean Keleher, technical director at Navien UK, explains how homeowners can cut their energy expenditure while staying cosy and comfortable through the colder months.

We must face the fact that managing our budgets is more important than ever, so it’s easy to see that saving a few quid on household bills is bound to brighten anyone’s day.

Here are a few pieces of friendly advice that can save money:

Know your boiler

Boiler settings can have a huge impact on the performance of a heating system. Have access to the boiler manual - all boiler manufacturers provide boiler manuals for free, online.

Use the boiler timer or programmer

Make use of the boiler’s timer or programmer features. A timer gives basic on/off functionality, meaning that the heating will kick in and turn off at set times. A programmer provides much greater flexibility as it can be set at different times and temperatures for different days of the week. Working from home on Mondays and Fridays? Set the heating to come on during that time. In the office Tuesday to Thursday? Don’t waste money heating an empty home.

Another great tip is to check that the boiler clock is correct. There is little value in using the programmer if the timing is an hour out.

Get your boiler serviced annually

Worryingly, only 20% of boiler owners get their boiler serviced annually, according to Government figures. 

Try to think of your boiler like a car, an annual service will keep it running safely, efficiently and reliably. Many warranties are invalidated if the boiler doesn’t get a yearly check by a professional.

The boiler service is a great “health check”, enabling a good heating engineer to ensure it is operating at maximum efficiency – and to remedy small problems before they grow into big issues or a full boiler breakdown.

Good radiator maintenance

Systems can get full of dirt and sludge over time, leading to lower efficiency and trapped air.

Make sure you check radiators for cold spots – the classic sign that air is trapped in the system, making it inefficient. Sludge in the system can also mean that a radiator takes a lot longer to heat up than others in the home. Another dead giveaway is if there is noises or clanking. This might not be anything sinister, but trapped air.

Bleed radiators to ensure full efficiency when they really need it in the colder winter months.

A full flush

Sometimes bleeding radiators is not enough to restore them to maximum efficiency. In these cases – or when installing a new boiler – a full system flush is required.

The right technology

Of course, energy efficiency starts with the right boiler for the home.

Through dedicated mobile apps, homeowners can download home energy management system (HEMS) reports, providing insights into their energy consumption. They can also set up geofences, – digital boundaries which send alerts to the boiler when breached. This means that the boiler knows when the homeowner is close to home, and the heating can kick in accordingly – much smarter than using a timer or programmer.

Source:

www.installeronline.co.uk

www.navien.co.uk/professional

Sizing The Right Boiler

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 10:13:27 GMT

Getting the right size boiler isn't so straightforward. Graham Parkes, commercial director at Navien UK explains why getting the right size boiler is critical for performance, efficiency and long-term satisfaction.

When choosing a boiler, one size doesn't fit all and choosing the right size is crucial, not just for keeping the property warm, but for the longevity of the boiler.

Boiler design provides many advantages to homeowners, including increased comfort, cheaper energy expenditure, and lower environmental impact. However, incorrectly sizing a boiler can create major issues for customers and installers alike, some of which are outlined below.

The efficiency of a boiler depends mainly on whether it's the right size for the home. A boiler that is too small will struggle to meet the heating demands of the property, causing it to work harder than necessary, wasting energy and ultimately costing the homeowner money. Alternatively, a boiler that is too large will frequently cycle on and off, consuming more energy than necessary, which can lead to wear and tear.

When correctly sizing a boiler, the homes size, insulation quality, number of radiators and hot water requirements need to be taken into consideration. With the above considered, the right sized boiler will run efficiently, providing just the right amount of heat without overworking or under performing.

Heating demands obviously fluctuate depending on the season, so selecting a boiler that adapts to these changes is crucial. During colder months, the system should operate at a lower level to avoid wasting energy while providing enough heat when temperatures drop.

Boiler size doesn’t only impact efficiency – it also affects how long the system will last. Boilers that are overworked or underused tend to break down sooner. A boiler that is constantly running beyond its capacity or cycling on and off too frequently experiences unnecessary stress, which can lead to premature failure.

By selecting the rightsized boiler, homeowners can ensure their system runs smoothly and lasts longer. This is particularly true when the boiler operates within its capacity, avoiding the strain caused by frequent cycling or overexertion. Not only does this reduce the need for costly repairs, but it also helps homeowners get the most out of their heating system, ultimately saving them money in the long run.

When a boiler is sized properly, it helps prevent short cycling, which happens when a boiler is too large for the heating needs of the home, causing it to turn on and off frequently. This puts additional strain on internal components, leading to wear and tear that can shorten the system’s lifespan.

Rightsizing doesn’t just impact comfort and savings – it also plays a role in reducing carbon emissions.

It’s also crucial to consider the home’s hot water demand, as larger homes or those with multiple bathrooms will require a boiler to meet higher hot water needs without compromising heating performance. Taking into account both heating and hot water requirements ensures that the system will function efficiently without overloading or under delivering.

Thinking ahead, if homeowners plan to add extra rooms or bathrooms, the boiler should be appropriately sized to accommodate those requirements. This method helps avoid the need for early replacements, as it’s essential to understand the specific models being recommended.

Selecting the right boiler size is one of the most important decisions to be made when looking to install new or upgrade existing.

Source: www.installeronline.co.uk

Clean Heat Transition - What's The Hold Up?

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 12:45:06 GMT

BAXI's 2024 Installer Skills survey looks into what is holding engineers back when it comes to supporting the switch to low-carbon heating.

Attitudes of engineers towards low-carbon heating are hard to shift, and with the lack of direction from government, means there has been a slow growth in adopting specifically Heat Pumps.

BAXI's Installer Skills Survey, in conjunction with Gemserv, spoke with over 300 engineers regarding their interest in and ability to to support customers with a shift towards cleaner heating technologies. It also highlighted the readiness to change, adopt and promote Heat Pumps inline with Government policies and customer demands.

Compared to previous years, this years survey results were more positive towards Heat Pumps, however it was evident that many engineers lack training and knowledge. Only 9% of engineers stated they are currently fitted Heat Pumps, which is a 3% increase since 2022. Although future support for Heat Pumps looked weak, with half of installers saying they are 'somewhat' or 'extremely unlikely' to start fitting them over the next 3 years. There was far more enthusiasm from engineers towards hybrid systems with 30% of installers showing a want to support this type of system going forward.

Government schemes such as the Boiler Upgrade Scheme were met with frustration due to its complexity, excessive paperwork and lack of consumer awareness.

A major feature in the survey was the lack of confidence to promote and install low-carbon heating technologies. Only 11% of installers said they are confident to discuss options with their clients, with only 3% of customers enquiring about low-carbon options. The lack of consumer demand for Heat Pumps further contributes to installers low engagement.

Ian Trott - BAXI'#s Head of UK Training, said "Many challenges highlighted by the survey, such as insufficient training, poor government support and low consumer demand, haven't moved on. The transition to low-carbon heating will require more targeted interventions to support installers overcoming the barriers outlined"

Source: Gas Safe Magazine 2024

Merry Christmas 2024

Tue, 17 Dec 2024 13:11:12 GMT

Merry Christmas from us all at DA Bunning Gas

Merry Christmas from everyone at DA Bunning Gas!

Another very busy year for us all here at DA Bunning Gas. In April we had Kasys join us for 7 months to gain some hands on work experience within the gas industry. We also said goodbye to Samantha who has moved on to pastures new, and welcomed Vicky Fleet to the admin team. Dale completed his air source heat pump training in May, adding another string to his bow. So as you can see we have crammed a lot in over the last 12 months!

We would like to thank you all for your continued support and custom over the last 12 months, we appreciate your loyalty.

Don't forget about our free gas boiler service giveaway - all of the details can be found on our Facebook page @dabunninggasltd

Below are our opening hours over the festive season:

Monday 23rd December - Closing at midday

Tuesday 24th December - Wednesday 1st January - Office Closed.

Please note we will be working limited hours during this period for emergencies ONLY (Emergency Number: 07957 630550). Any other queries will be dealt with on our return.

Thursday 2nd January - Friday 3rd January - Normal Hours.

Wishing you all the very best for 2025, and hopefully see you soon.

Team DA Bunning Gas xx

National Radiator Day

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 13:11:56 GMT

The 1st November marked National Radiator Day - a chance to celebrate the great job that around 200 million radiators do to keep UK homes warm.

With more low temperature heating systems such as heat pumps being installed, heating engineers and installers have an increasingly important role to play ensuring customer radiators are fit for purpose.

To meet its climate charge targets, the Government's plan is to install 600'000 heat pumps in the UK. This shift in the way our homes are heated means customers need to prevent heat loss from their homes by fitting energy saving measures, such as loft insulation, double glazing or cavity wall insulation before installing a heat pump.

This means that their radiators, even while still on a gas boiler heating system, can be run at a lower temperature and are more energy and cost efficient.

Radiators are quicker, less disruptive and a lot more cost effective to install that underfloor heating, especially when retrofitting in existing homes.
Radiators can respond quickly to changes in temperature and are easy to control, especially when paired with a programmable thermostat, This makes them a good choice for heating individual rooms on demand or for turning right down or off in some rooms that are often unoccupied.
Correctly sized radiators can ensure heating systems are energy efficient when operated at lower temperatures.
Radiators can be a good option for older properties as they can help reduce cold spots and drafts.

It's clear that the heating industry is undergoing massive changes, however radiators do and still will have a massive role to play,

Source: https://www.installeronline.co.uk/

Fires - Gas Vs Electric

Mon, 21 Oct 2024 11:24:16 GMT

In this months blog we look into the pros and cons of Gas and Electric Fires

If you are considering a gas or an electric fire in the not to distant future, here are few things you might want to consider when making a decision.

If you like the look of a fire place, but aren't sure what type will be most efficient and best-suited to your home, here's a summary of the benefits and drawbacks (including environmental implications) of gas fires/stoves and electric fires/stoves.

Gas Fires and Stoves

Gas fires and stoves come in a wide variety of styles and pump out plenty of heat at a relatively low cost. However, the downside is that they need regular maintenance and monitoring - and, crucially, they rely on burning fossil fuels.

Pros:

Low running costs - Using gas to heat your home is cheaper than using electricity, and less hassle than buying and storing logs.
Give out plenty of heat - Gas Fires and stoves can provide outputs of up to 6kW, about three times as much as electric fires.
Can be very efficient - Gas appliances can be up to 90% efficient (measuring the heat output from an appliance in kW against the gas input in kW. The exact figure varies from one model to another, though, so check the stated efficiency rating.
You don't necessarily need a chimney - You can now buy 'balanced flue' fires, which are vented through an external wall, or even flueless models.
Aesthetics - Gas fires tend to look more authentic than most electric fires, when comparing similarly priced models.

Cons:

Environment impact - They burn fossil fuels, and therefore contributes to global warming and climate change. Moreover, burning gas releases nitrogen dioxide, a form of air pollution which can be dangerous for people with asthma and COPD.
Professional installation costs - Your fire must be installed by a registered gas safe engineer. You'll also have to get it serviced annually by an engineer to make sure it's safe to use.
Carbon monoxide - It's imperative to have a carbon monoxide fitted when having a gas fire/stove.
Maintenance - The chimneys will need to be cleaned once or twice a year unless it is a flueless appliance.
Limited flexibility - Most styles of gas fire will need to be placed within a chimney breast or against an outside wall so they can be vented.

Electric Fires and Stoves

If you are looking for flexibility and minimal maintenance, consider an electric fire or stove. Running costs can be high, and electric fires and stoves don't generate enormous amounts of heat.

Pros:

Cost - Electric fires and stoves start at less than £100 (for basic models) whereas you might pay £200 for a gas stove.
Flexibility - Electric fires can be placed anywhere that there is a plug point. They can be used in a fireplace, or set in a chimney breast. Sometimes you might not even have to pay for a professionally installation!
Low Maintenance - Electric fires don't produce ash, and don't require a chimney that needs cleaning regularly.
Very Efficient - Electric fires are 100% efficient as 100% of the electrical energy is converted into heat. Also heat that is generated goes into the room rather than losing some though the chimney/flue.
Convenient - Some models can operated by remote control, which can be handy for people with limited mobility.

Cons:

Higher running costs - The biggest drawback of an electric appliance is the running costs, as electricity is a much more expensive fuel than gas.
Lower heat outputs - Most electric fires are limited to 2kW or less, which is significantly lower than the range available from gas appliances.
Less realistic looking - You won't get a realistic flame effect from an electric fire unless you are willing to spend more money for a high end model.

If you would like a quote for a gas or electric fire install, please get in contact with us on 01691 680888 or office@dabunninggas.co.uk

Source - www.which.co.uk

Written by Hannah Healey

Gas Safety Week 2024 - 9th -15th September

Wed, 28 Aug 2024 11:57:06 GMT

Are You Gas Safe? Check. Every Check Counts.

DA Bunning Gas LTD is helping you stay Gas Safe this Gas Safety Week 2024

In support of Gas Safety Week (9th-15th September 2024), local Gas Safe registered engineers, DA Bunning Gas LTD in Whittington, in partnership with The Mulberry Inn, Glyn Ceiriog are asking the local community to get on board and take part in their online Gas Safety Quiz. It’s a short, fun quiz, with questions around gas safety to inform the public of gas safety issues, and to remind everyone of the importance of staying gas safe as we look towards the forthcoming heating season. Anyone who completes the quiz, with 100% correct answers, will be in with a chance of winning a £50 Voucher to use at The Mulberry Inn. The link to the online quiz can be found by clicking here .

This year for Gas Safety Week, the theme is ‘Checking—Every Check Counts’, emphasising the importance of, amongst other things, regular gas safety checks. The theme highlights the significance of checking all gas appliances and encouraging people to prioritise gas safety in their homes. By showing how important every check is, Gas Safety Week aims to raise awareness and promote measures to ensure the safety and well-being of households.

Gas appliances that have not been properly maintained can cause gas leaks, fires, explosions and carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. Carbon monoxide is known as the ‘silent killer’ because you can’t see, smell or taste it. Therefore, it is important to have your gas appliances checked by an engineer who is listed on the Gas Safe Register.

Dale Bunning, Director of DA Bunning Gas LTD, said: “It is our job to make sure that people’s gas appliances are operating safely and efficiently. In some instances, people do not know the signs and symptoms of faulty gas appliances and carbon monoxide poisoning. Because of this, we are supporting Gas Safety Week to remind the public of the seriousness of unsafe gas appliances, the important of checking i.e. getting appliances serviced every 12 months, and how they can keep themselves and their families safe.”

Jonathan Samuel, Chief Executive Officer for Gas Safe Register, said: “This is the fourteenth Gas Safety Week and the theme for 2024 is Checking – Every Check Counts. The week will encourage checking, in many guises, and shine a light on the importance gas safety in keeping ourselves and our community safe. Throughout Gas Safety Week, our partners, stakeholders and Gas Safe Register will share information to help everyone be gas safe, so I am very pleased to have the support of DA Bunning Gas LTD to help share those messages, such as check the Gas Safe Register to ensure your engineer is registered and qualified.”

By taking care of your gas appliances properly you are taking care of your home and your loved ones. No matter how big or small every check counts. Here is a guide to some simple checks that you can do at home:

 Check that you’ve had an annual gas safety check. Gas appliances should be safety checked once a year and serviced regularly by a Gas Safe registered engineer. Tenants, make sure your landlord arranges this.

 Check your engineer is Gas Safe registered. Always use a Gas Safe registered engineer and ensure they’re qualified for the work that needs doing via the Gas Safe Register website and the engineer’s ID card.

 Check for warning signs that could indicate your gas appliances are not working correctly. Signs may include lazy yellow/orange flames instead of crisp blue ones, black marks on or around the appliance, a pilot light that keeps going out, too much condensation in the room, or error messages on the appliance’s control panel.

 Check that vents or flues are not blocked. Vents and flues are there to ensure your gas appliances work safely. Blocking them could prevent this.

 Check your knowledge. Remember the six main symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning: headaches, dizziness, breathlessness, nausea, collapse, and loss of consciousness.

 Check your carbon monoxide (CO) alarm. Regular testing ensures that alarms are operational and capable of alerting you to the presence of deadly CO. Also, check they are marked to standards EN50291 and still in date (if applicable).

 Check before doing DIY. Before drilling or hammering, check that there is no risk of hitting a gas pipe. Never DIY on a gas appliance; if you suspect there is something wrong with your appliance or it is not working correctly, call a Gas Safe registered engineer. You can find one at GasSafeRegister.co.uk or call 0800 408 5500.

Gas Safe Register is the official register for legally qualified engineers. You can find a registered engineer in your area by visiting the Gas Safe Register website at GasSafeRegister.co.uk.

Heating Controls and Efficiency

Fri, 26 Jul 2024 09:32:54 GMT

No matter the heating source, unless it is managed and controlled well, we as the consumer will be unable to optimise our energy efficiency.

Gareth Ash, Marketing Communications Manager at Danfoss looks at how we can save energy and cut bills by focusing on heating controls.

In a time of continued economic uncertainty, replacing complete central heating systems can be daunting, and not necessarily the answer to saving energy and reducing bills. The installation of heating controls can have a significant impact on cutting costs and helping us to to our bit for the environment.

Controlling a heating systems operation time and desired temperature by using an electronic room control is the easiest way for householders to balance comfort and energy use. By ensuring that the heating system isn't running when no-one is in and by choosing their optimum temperature, end users can optimise their energy consumption and cut their bills - it's as simple as that!

Adding heating zones into the mix, which is possible with modern controls, will enable homeowners to further control their energy use, without compromising on comfort levels.

Thermostatic Radiator Valves (TRVs), system balancing and mixing system compatibility are also other elements that can have an impact of efficiency.

One of the heating controls we will be using more of is the EPH CP4D. EPH have responded to user preferences to create an intuitive handwheel control.

CP4D allows quick and smooth temperature adjustment. With a large clear display, this modern thermostat retains the trusted features of the original CP4 including OpenTherm modulation, wireless communication and wide compatibility.

Source:

Installer Online: www.installeronline.co.uk

Heating Fuels - LPG vs Oil

Fri, 24 May 2024 12:23:42 GMT

LPG vs Oil - What are the pros and cons of both heating fuels?

Many homes are unable to access a main gas supply which leaves homeowners which a decision of what heating system they would like to implement in their home. Both LPG and Oil boilers seem to be the main options in contention, both of which are effective heating systems that can perform as efficiently as natural gas.

LPG and Oil are both liquid fossil fuels that can be stored in a tank at the homeowners property. Tanks are usually delivered and filled by a local supplier. The boiler will then burn the fuel to provide heating and hot water.

LPG is a colourless hydrocarbon gas which has been pressured into a liquid form. it can be extracted from natural gas streams or petroleum, however is usually collected as a byproduct of the crude oil refinery process. There are two types of LPG:

Butane - usually used for indoor heating systems as it has a higher boiling point.
Propane

Heating Oil is a form of kerosene produced through the heating of crude Oil.

So what are the Pros and Cons of each heating fuel...

On average an Oil Combi Boiler is likely to be higher in price compared to that of an LPG Combi Boiler, however prices can vary quiet significantly depending on the manufacturer and model.

LPG Combi Boilers can start from anywhere between £2000/£2500 where as Oil Combi Boilers are around can start from around £2600. An Oil storage tank is also required and can be anywhere between £1000 and £2800, depending on size and installation. An overground LPG tank can start from £550, and an underground tank £1800. Many LPG suppliers provide a tank rental service which costs around £60 to £70 for an above ground tank and £80 to £120 for a below-ground installation.

Fuel cost prices are measured in pence per kilowatt-hour (kWh). This is basically means how much it will cost to heat your home for an hour. According to The Energy Savings Trust as of 1st October 2023, the price of Oil was 7.1p/kWh and LPG was 8.1p/kWh.

Sources:

Nick Geary - The Boiler Guide
The Energy Saving Trust - www.energysavingtrust.org.uk

Hydrogen - The Future of Home Heating

Wed, 24 Apr 2024 13:00:02 GMT

Why Hydrogen, and how might it be used in the future to heat our homes?

Heating our homes and workplaces with low carbon heat is a massive priority for the UK Government in their mission to try and combat climate change.

In 2019 the UK became the first major economy to pass laws to reduce its green house gas emissions to net zero by 2050. Meeting this target will require virtually all heat in buildings to be decarbonised, and there is the potential for hydrogen to play a role in this process.

'Hello Hydrogen', a group of the UK’s biggest gas networks, boiler manufacturers and energy suppliers have come together to advise on the hydrogen journey, and they go into depth on their website about what Hydrogen is and how it can be utilised in the future.

So why Hydrogen?

Hydrogen is set to play a vital role in the way we heat our homes in the future, eventually replacing the natural gas we currently use as we look for long-term environmentally-friendly ways to save the planet and keep bills down.

The problem is – not enough people know about the benefits hydrogen can bring or the work already taking place to start the change.

Hydrogen can be produced in the UK and supplied through the same gas pipes already in our streets and going into our homes. Hydrogen boilers and cookers that work just as natural gas ones do today, have already been developed.

The first hydrogen homes and villages are being trialed to find out how easy it will be to replace your current boiler and appliances to hydrogen-ready ones. This switch will help create tens of thousands of jobs in the UK, reduce greenhouse gases and end our reliance on fossil fuels from overseas.

What is Hydrogen?

Hydrogen is an energy carrier which can be created at volume. Both blue and green hydrogen offer zero carbon heat at the point of use.

Blue Hydrogen - Is produced from natural gas, usually via Steam Methane Reforming (SMR) or Auto-Thermal Reformation (ATR), with carbon capture and storage.

Green Hydrogen - Is produced using renewable energy (such as wind or solar) for electrolysis to separate water into its component parts (Hydrogen and Oxygen). Using this process means that there are no carbon emissions, plus there is the opportunity to use inter-seasonal storage to make best use of surplus electricity from constrained renewable sources in summer months.

What will the transition to Hydrogen look like?

It is unlikely that 100% hydrogen deployment will role out much before 2030, and this will vary from region to region. As a result, stepwise developments will be required:

Step 1 - 20% Hydrogen Blend - It is expected that the first step will be to introduce a blend of up to 20% hydrogen into the gas network. 20% hydrogen blends have been successfully demonstrated using current natural gas boilers.

Step 2 - 'Hydrogen Ready' Boilers - The next phase is the introduction of 'hydrogen ready' boilers, which will be the bridging solution to the energy transition. 'Hydrogen ready' is defined as a boiler that can operate on natural gas at the point of installation and can then be converted to run on 100% hydrogen with a conversion kit, during its service life.

Step 3 - 100% Hydrogen Boilers - The last step will be boilers that are able to operate on 100% hydrogen at the point of installation.

Will I need to change my boiler?

You won’t need to upgrade your existing boiler until it comes to the end of its natural life. Hydrogen for widescale home heating is still a long way off so if you need to upgrade your boiler in the near future, you can be sure it will continue to work for it’s entire life before hydrogen fully replaces natural gas.

New boilers will however be needed for homes to use 100% hydrogen in the future. The benefit of a hydrogen-ready boiler is, it will fit in the same spot as your old one and manufacturers have committed to ensuring they will be the same price as a traditional boiler.

Manufacturers, including BAXi, are already making and testing hydrogen-ready boilers, which can be easily converted to use 100% hydrogen in the future.

Will Hydrogen cost most than natural gas?

Figuring out the cost of hydrogen gas when the technology is in its infancy is difficult at this stage. We do know it will fall as efforts across the industry to develop new technology ramp up. New technology always takes time to adapt. For example, the cost of harnessing wind power used to be unaffordable but today it is one of the cheapest forms of energy in the UK following years of investment and development. We see the same happening with hydrogen. We also know that developing a hydrogen economy right here in the UK will protect households from some of the fluctuating energy costs we’ve seen in recent months because the country will have control over its supply.

Once it’s up and running, domestic hydrogen will become more affordable over time. We are not the only country looking at hydrogen. The UK Government is already working with countries across Europe, the US, Australia and Chile to make sure hydrogen can be affordable to households with an aim of it costing around the same price as natural gas before the recent energy price crisis.

To keep updated with the development of Hydrogen - follow 'Hello Hydrogen' or visit: www.hellohydrogen.com

Sources:

Hello Hydrogen - www.hellohydrogen.com

BAXI Heating LTD - www.baxi.co.uk

Government Services & Information - www.gov.uk

DA Bunning Gas LTD Expands with AA Gas Services Take Over

Fri, 01 Mar 2024 12:12:31 GMT

Exciting times ahead for DA Bunning Gas, as Dale decides to take over customer base from AA Gas Services

Above: Dale Bunning of DA Bunning Gas (pictured right) with Clive Denham formerly of AA Gas Services (pictured left)

DA Bunning Gas LTD announced the exciting news that as of January 2024 they will be taking over all gas engineering work from AA Gas Services, also based in Oswestry.

AA Gas Services, a gas engineering company headed up by Clive Denham with the support of Shelley Paterson, was established in 1989, and has been offering a quality service to the people of Oswestry ever since. After 35 years in the industry, Clive has decided to slow down, and hang up his tools to retire and cease trading as AA Gas Services. To ensure Clive’s customers still received a quality service, Clive approached Dale Bunning of DA Bunning Gas LTD, an old friend and work colleague, regarding the takeover of the company customer base, to which Dale jumped at the chance of being involved with.

Clive said “After first working with Dale 15 years ago, and being able to support him at the start of his business, I could not wish to hand my customers over to a better person. He has grown an excellent business over the years, and he has the same ethics and working practices that we have always prided ourselves on.

I know Dale and his staff will continue to care for my customers needs with integrity and professionalism.

I've enjoyed my time in the industry but am ready for a well-earned rest and spending time with the family. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all my customers past and present for their support over the last 35 years, and wish Dale and his staff all the best for the future.”

Dale said “I’ve worked with Clive and AA Gas Services for many years, so when Clive approached me with the opportunity to take over their current gas work, I was over the moon and couldn’t wait to get started. DA Bunning Gas LTD is a family run business of Gas Safe Registered engineers, and we have been working across Oswestry and the surrounding areas since 2011. We pride ourselves on offering a thorough and quality service, using genuine parts if required, and customer service is at the heart of everything we do. We are looking forward to working with Clive’s customers in the not-too-distant future, and we wish Clive all the best in his retirement”

Air Source Heat Pumps - What We Need to Know

Wed, 21 Feb 2024 09:55:08 GMT

Our February Blog delves into the world of Air Source Heat Pumps - What are they and how do they work?

BAXI explains Heat Pumps have been around for many years and to put it most simply they transfer heat from one location to another. They can be very efficient and use electricity to generate heat. With the reduction in the carbon intensity of electricity, heat pumps will play a large role in reducing the UK's carbon footprint.

What is an Air Source Heat Pump?

Air Source Heat Pumps are generally 300-400% efficient. The efficiency of a heat pump is commonly termed as Coefficient of Performance (COP). This means that for every 1kW of electrical energy input, they provide between 3kW and 4kW of heat energy output. SCOP is the Seasonal Co-efficiency of Performance. This is an annual efficiency value that takes into consideration year round ambient conditions and load on the Heat Pump.

Like all renewables, the system must be designed and installed to maximise the efficiency of the technology. With Heat Pumps, this means, accurate heat losses to correctly size the Heat Pump and lower flow temperatures to maximise COPs. Heat Pumps are designed to operate continuously adapting to the heating demands as they happen. BAXI have invested in extensive simulation software to ensure the system design, Heat Pump size and expected performance are validated and benchmarked.

Heat Pumps are generally more suited to modern heating designs, however not exclusively. They are a perfect match for new build properties that have modern building standards of insulation and air permeability. For retrofitting into existing buildings careful consideration must be given to the heat loss through poor insulation and air infiltration first.

In hard to heat properties, Heat Pumps can also be used with boilers to form a hybrid solution, providing a flexible heating source, to maximise performance and reduce running costs.

How an Air Source Heat Pump Works

The fan draws ambient air from outside into the evaporator.
Liquid refrigerant absorbs the air's heat and evaporates into vapour, even at low temperatures.
The vapour enters the compressor, where the pressure and temperature are increased.
The heated refrigerant passes through the condenser, transferring heat into the home's heating and hot water system.
The refrigerant flow is then controlled by the expansion valve to continue heat pump operation.

Heat Pump technology works in a very different way to boiler-based heating systems, which means that when thinking about retro-fitting a Heat Pump into a property, it would not be a like for like replacement.

BAXI diagram outlining how the Heat Pump works.

EDF Energy outline some of the benefits and what to consider before installing a Heat Pump, which are listed below:

Benefits of installing an Air Source Heat Pump?

They use renewable energy
They are extremely efficient
They can be cost effective
They reduce your carbon foot print
They are quiet
You may be eligible for a grant towards installation of a Heat Pump

What to consider before buying a Air Source Heat Pump?

Heat Pump costs: Prices start from £3,500 in England and Wales or £3,000 in Scotland (including the government grants )
Upgrading radiators for Heat Pumps: Some Heat Pump system designs, particularly low-temperature heat pumps, may also require larger radiators to work at their maximum efficiency. Pipe size may also need changing when designing a system.
Heat Pumps for underfloor heating: Heat Pumps work best when there’s less of a difference between the inside and outside temperatures. Floors cover a much bigger area than radiators, so they don’t need to get as hot to provide the same amount of heat. This makes them a good match for underfloor heating, but it's not essential.
Heat Pumps for heating water: Heat pumps can also be a great source of hot water – but the water is likely to be around 50-55 °C with a heat pump, compared to 60-65 °C with a boiler. This means that if you’re running a bath, you’ll need more hot water and less from the cold tap.
A correct heat-loss calculation should be carried out before installing a Heat Pump, to ensure the new heating system will perform efficiently and will provide the optimum heating/comfort required. Heat-loss calculations require a number of variables such as the size of the property, property construction, door and window types and room dimensions.
Most Heat Pumps work more efficiently with lower temperature systems, a back-up heater (direct electric immersion heater) may be required to provide legionella protection.

What are some of the disadvantages of installing an Air Source Heat Pump?

To improve running costs and qualify for any government support, you may need to invest in improving your insulation. Adding more insulation is beneficial regardless of the heating system you have.
Even with government initiatives, a Heat Pump costs more than other heating systems.
Installation can take 3-8 days and the whole process of buying a Heat Pump may take around 12 weeks.
You'll need space - outside for the pump and inside for a water storage tank. Some heat pumps may also need an indoor unit but don't worry, this will replace your existing boiler.

What are the different types of Heat Pump?

Air to Water - In air to water pumps, the heat is transferred into a 'wet' heating system (conventional radiator central heating). This setting gives you hot water and keeps your home warm. ONLY THESE HEAT PUMPS QUALIFY FOR THE BOILER UPGRADE SCHEME.

Air to Air - As the name suggests, this pump transfers heat directly into the air in your rooms, more commonly known as air conditioning units. They can be switched between heat and cooling depending on the season. These pumps do not provide hot water,

Hybrid - These Heat Pumps are combined with a boiler. Depending on the type of the hybrid system, the boiler can assist the Heat Pump by providing hot water or a quick heat boost during a particularly cold snap.

The installation of Air Source Heat Pumps will definitely be apart of the DA Bunning Gas future, so watch this space.

Sources:

BAXI Heating LTD - https://www.baxi.co.uk/

EDF Energy - https://www.edfenergy.com/

How To Prevent Limescale

Mon, 29 Jan 2024 13:02:39 GMT

It is essential to make informed choices and install effective measures to help protect your boiler from limescale

GasEngineer spoke with Richard Braid - Managing Director of Cistermiser, regarding the detrimental effect limescale can have on the efficiency of our boiler and what we can do to reduce build-up.

Heating engineers will be all too familiar with how frequently and aggressively limescale can form in heating and hot water systems in hard water areas, and the problems it can cause.

Around 60% of UK homes are in hard water areas and one the worst is the Midlands.

If preventative measures are not taken, rock-like limescale deposits can adhere to surfaces - including the inside of heating system pipework and components such as heat exchangers - and it's a stubborn one to try and remove! Overtime the build-up will significantly reduce performance, efficiency and longevity of heating appliances. The impact can't be ignored: just a 1.6mm coating of limescale on the boiler's heating element can cause a 12 percent loss in heating efficiency. Component damage and faults are also likely, and complete boiler failure is even possible.

It is now standard practice to include limescale prevention measures in new boiler installations in homes supplied with hard water, and there are several ways to inhibit limescale. At entry level there are electrolytic and magnetic methods, which are compact and don't require an electrical supply. Some models may have a relatively limited lifespan, which is something to bear in mind. Alternative options include the installation of a water softener or phosphate dosing. Phosphate is a natural nutrient that does not alter the hardness or softness of the water; instead, minerals in the water are kept in suspension, preventing them from forming limescale deposits. The phosphate also creates a thin, non-residual protective coating on metal surfaces. The food-grade phosphate compound used is tasteless, odourless and safe for consumption. It is consistently introduced in microscopic quantities through a dispensing device installed directly on to the cold water supply. Devices operate without electricity and do not require drainage.

Food for thought when trying to keep limescale to a minimum!

Merry Christmas from DA Bunning Gas

Fri, 22 Dec 2023 09:49:50 GMT

Wishing all of our customers a very Merry Christmas and all the best for the New Year!

Merry Christmas from everyone at DA Bunning Gas!

Another very busy year for us all here at DA Bunning Gas, and we have some really exciting things planned for the New Year which we cant wait to share with you all.

We would like to thank you all for your continued support and custom over the last 12 months.

CHRISTMAS OPENING HOURS:

Friday 22nd December - Closing at midday

Monday 25th December - Monday 1st January - Office closed.

Please note we will be working limited hours during this period for emergencies ONLY (Emergency Number: 07957 630550). Any other queries will be dealt with on our return.

Tuesday 2nd January - Normal Hours.

Wishing you all the very best for 2024, and hopefully see you soon.

Team DA Bunning Gas

Is Your Boiler Winter Ready?

183:782322566 (Dale Bunning) — Wed, 29 Nov 2023 10:44:56 GMT

BAXI share with us some tips to make sure your boiler is ready for winter.

Baxi is proud to have been manufacturing in the UK since 1866.

In the UK and Ireland, Baxi has a portfolio of some of the best known and most respected brands in the heating industry. From our award-winning customer support to our industry-leading hands-on training, we are fully committed to making life with Baxi as easy as possible.

BAXI have shared with us some of their top tips for ensuring your boiler is ready for the colder winter months.

As the nights draw in and the days get cooler, your boiler’s workload increases significantly. However, you may not have had your heating on for months. Ageing pipes, lower boiler pressure, grime building up inside your central heating system – there’s plenty that can happen over time that can reduce the effectiveness or even damage your boiler.

Let’s run through all the things you need to do before the cold winter hits, whether it’s to bleed your radiators or check boiler pressure:

Ensure you get an annual boiler service

Make sure your boiler pressure is within effective range

Bleed your radiators

Test your heating before winter sets in

Insulate your pipes

We’ll delve deeper into each of these tips to make sure your boiler is ready for winter below.

1.) Maintain your boiler with an annual boiler service

2.) Check your boiler pressure

This will be done during your annual boiler service, but on the off-chance you skipped that, check your boiler pressure before switching your central heating on for the winter.

3.) Bleed your radiators

4.) Test your central heating before it gets too cold

You should also check the control elements of your boiler, providing it has them. Here’s some common controls you should make sure are correct:

5.) Insulate your pipes

For those with fairly modern boilers, you may have a particular problem if temperatures are forecast to get really low, so please check those condensate pipes. This is an extremely common fault, too common in fact, particularly when it gets very cold. You may be even more susceptible to this if your boiler has been fitted with an incorrectly sized waste condensate pipe (this is a pet hate of ours as so often other fitters will for whatever reason fit condensates with smaller pipes that is recommended), as smaller pipes are more likely to freeze up.

To avoid this happening to you, keep your pipes well insulated and if they do freeze, defrost them safely by doing the following:

-Locate your condensate pipe. This will be a white pipe that comes out of the wall behind your boiler and should run directly into an outside drain.

-Boil a kettle and leave it to cool for 10-15 minutes so that it's warm rather than boiling.

-Starting from the top and working your way down, pour the water over the pipe until the ice within has melted.

-Reset your boiler and it should work as normal.

-Alternatively you could apply a hot water bottle, microwaveable heating pack or warm cloth to the frozen part of the pipe instead.

If you're not sure if your problem is the frozen condensate, some newer boilers have specific error codes for this problem, as demonstrated below:

ATAG - 133

Baxi - E133 or E28

Glow-worm - F28 or F29

Ideal - LF, L2 or F2

Main - E133

Potterton - E133

Valliant - F28 or F29

Viessmann - F4EE

Worcester Bosch - EA229 or D5

Please be advised that this is not an exhaustive list, so if your boiler is not listed here, or if it is showing a different error code, this does not always mean that you can definitely discount the condensate. If your boiler has been working well and the breakdown coincides with a period of below freezing temperatures, it is highly likely that the condensate is still the problem and can often be recognised by a gurgling noise coming from your heating system.

Carbon Monoxide Awareness - November 2023

Wed, 01 Nov 2023 13:17:22 GMT

Carbon Monoxide - The Silent Killer

November is usually a time that we dedicate to raising awareness of Carbon Monoxide and how it can be deadly if not detected. Throughout the month of November we will be offering our customers an opportunity to WIN a FREE carbon monoxide detector - details of which can be found at the end of this blog.

WHAT IS CARBON MONOXIDE?

Known as the silent killer, due to its lack of colour, taste and smell, carbon monoxide is invisible to the human senses, which is why CO alarms are so important. Each year in the UK alone, over 200 people are hospitalised with suspected carbon monoxide poisoning, which leads to around 60 deaths. It is also known as the silent killer, due to its lack of colour, taste and smell. Basic household appliances such as cookers, boilers, stoves and fireplaces can all produce carbon monoxide. Luckily, there are some simple steps you can take to stay safe, and help is at hand - if you suspect carbon monoxide, call 0800 111 999.

Due to increases in energy prices and the cost-of-living crisis, households are desperate to keep costs down. But cutting corners costs lives, and it is important not to place you and your household at risk when it comes to keeping warm. Carbon Monoxide Awareness Month is the perfect time to refresh your knowledge and join the campaign to raise awareness! Check out the top tips below:

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

The symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are not always obvious and are often mistaken for flu-like illnesses. Here are some of the symptoms you can experience with Carbon Monoxide poisoning:

-Tension-type headache

-Nausea

-Dizziness

-Breathlessness

-Collapse

-Loss of consciousness

-Symptoms may be less severe when you’re away from the source of the CO.

If this is the case you may have a carbon monoxide leak, and should ask a qualified professional to check appliances immediately.

WHO NEEDS A CARBON MONOXIDE ALARM?

All properties with fuel-burning appliances should have a CO alarm, w hether it’s a gas boiler, a coal fire or a flue running through the room, a CO alarm should be present in each area where a potential CO source may occur. The same applies to leisure vehicles such as caravans and boats, where additional risks are often present; with other vehicles, engines or generators increasing the risk. If you’re camping, CO can even enter your tent from a smoldering BBQ outside, so always take an alarm with you when travelling.

WHAT TO DO IF A CO ALARM SOUNDS

-Open nearby doors and windows.

-Stop using all fuel-burning appliances and, if possible, turn them off.

-Evacuate the property leaving the doors and windows open.

-In an emergency call National Gas Service on: 0800 111 999. Alternatively call your gas or fuel supplier on their emergency number.

-Do not re-enter the property until informed it is safe to do so.

-Get medical help immediately for anyone suffering the effects of carbon monoxide poisoning.

-Do not use the appliance again until it has been checked by an expert.

WHERE TO INSTALL CARBON MONOXIDE ALARMS

In every room that contains a fuel-burning appliance:

-At least 300 mm from any wall (for ceiling mounted alarms)

-Between 1 and 3 m (measured horizontally) from the potential source of CO

-At least 150 mm from the ceiling, above the height of any door or openable window (for wall mounted alarms)

-Always refer to CO alarm manufacturer installation guidelines for more specific positioning advice.

Here at DA Bunning Gas we use FireAngel carbon monoxide detectors. FireAngel provide market leading smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors and other home safety products. Their products are used and trusted by over 90% of the UK Fire Rescue Services. All of FireAngel’s carbon monoxide alarms are Kitemarked by the British Standards Institute (BSI) and are developed in the belief that everyone should be properly protected with affordable and reliable home safety. They also come with a 10 year warranty.

Be in with a chance of winning a FREE carbon monoxide detector for your home - We have 4 to give away and here's how to enter;

Simply....

��LIKE and follow our Facebook page @DABunninggasLTD

��LIKE and COMMENT on our Facebook competition post ONE of the symptoms associated with carbon monoxide poisoning.

We would love it if you could SHARE the post with your nearest and dearest.

T&Cs: Closes on the 30th November, 2023 at 11.59pm. 1 entry per person. Winner will be chosen at random and notified by Facebook message. UK entrants only (Oswestry and surrounding areas) This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed, administered by, or associated with Facebook. Fitting of the detector will be included, however will have to coincide with a service appointment.

GOOD LUCK!

SLUDGE: A costly hidden threat to your boiler

Wed, 27 Sep 2023 11:27:52 GMT

The main cause of boiler and central heating breakdown is poor water quality* which is caused by sludge.

Here’s five reasons why sludge is worth knowing about so you potentially save some money on energy bills.

Sludge causes 60% of annual boiler breakdowns in the UK

Dirty water in your heating system contains magnetite – also known as sludge – made up of tiny magnetic particles. It can build up quickly in untreated heating systems, floating around in pipes and radiators until they eventually reach the boiler, clogging up components and eventually causing the boiler to breakdown. In fact, out of the 3.2 million boilers that breakdown in the UK each year, 1.9 million are due to sludge.*

Sludge can reduce the amount of heat your customers’ radiators give out by 47%

Sludge settles at the bottom of radiators and blocks the heat coming through properly. This is why radiators can still feel cold in places, even if the customer has their heating turned up. By following water treatment best practice, radiators heat output can increase by up to 47%*.

Sludge can increase your customers’ energy bills by up to 7% a year

You may be continually turning the heating up but not feeling a real difference. This might mean that sludge could be blocking up the system. When sludge blocks the heat coming through, more energy is used to get the right temperature – costing more in heating bills. Getting sludge dealt with has been shown to save people up to 7% a year on their energy bills**.

Sludge is increasing your customers carbon footprint

A central heating system contaminated by sludge must work harder to pump water around, using more energy to make the room feel warm enough. A sludge-free system will use less energy and reduce carbon emissions by up to 7%*

Most UK heating systems are not protected against sludge

To prevent sludge building up in systems, a change to Part L Building Regs in June 2022 was introduced, meaning new boilers must be fitted with an inline filter, and engineers should carry out a system clean/flush and add scale and corrosion inhibitor.

Existing boilers can have a magnetic filter retrospectively fitted which will capture the sludge particles before they settle and cause a problem elsewhere.

How to deal with sludge – From an expert

“To find out how clean the water is in a system, get an engineer to carry out a water test. If the water is dirty, you can flush out the system and get rid of the sludge that is blocking the heat from radiators and making the boiler work harder. You can also fit a filter in the system and dose the water with a solution to prevent sludge build-up in future. This also helps the appliances to work better and last longer.”

Colin Yearp, Heating Engineer and Head of Training at ADEY

* Independent research by ADEY alongside KIWA GasTec and Delta EE

** Against a corrosion filled system

Gas Safety Week 2023 - 11th - 17th September

Wed, 30 Aug 2023 11:57:21 GMT

Fighting for a Gas Safe Nation

We are proud to be supporting Gas Safety Week 2023, taking place 11 – 17 September, and we hope that by raising awareness we are helping to keep our customers and community gas safe.

Gas Safety Week is an annual safety week to raise awareness of gas safety and the importance of taking care of your gas appliances. It is coordinated by Gas Safe Register, the official list of gas engineers who are legally allowed to work on gas.

Badly fitted and poorly serviced gas appliances can cause gas leaks, fires, explosions, and carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. CO is a highly poisonous gas that can kill quickly and without warning, as you cannot see it, taste it, or smell it.

Here are some pointers below on how to keep yourself and others gas safe:

Check for warning signs that could indicate your (or others) gas appliances are not working correctly. Signs may include lazy yellow /orange flames instead of crisp blue ones, error messages or unexpected noises from your boiler or dark and sooty stains around your gas appliance.
Check you know the six main symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning – headaches, dizziness, breathlessness, nausea, collapse, and loss of consciousness.
Install an audible carbon monoxide alarm. Alarms should be marked EN50291 and display the British Standards Kitemark.
Never DIY on gas appliances or block vents. Either of these actions could cause an appliance to become unsafe. If you are worried about an appliance, give us a call!
Have your annual gas safety check. Gas appliances should be safety checked once a year and serviced regularly by a Gas Safe registered engineer. Tenants should be aware that it’s their landlord’s responsibility to arrange this.
Check your engineer is Gas Safe registered and qualified for the type of work that needs doing. You'll be pleased to know that here at D.A. Bunning Gas we are Gas Safe Registered. We are more than willing to present our Gas Safety card when we come to visit.

We will also be running a Gas Safety Week colouring competition for anyone aged 10 and under, and this is how you can enter:

Download the artwork from our website: www.dabunninggas.co.uk or our Facebook page: DABunninggasLTD.
Submit completed artwork via email or post to: office@dabunninggas.co.uk or D. A Bunning Gas LTD, Unit 8C, Whittington Business Park, Park Green, Oswestry, Shropshire SY11 4ND. Please include your NAME, AGE, and a CONTACT NUMBER on the artwork.
The winner will receive a £10 Booka Oswestry Voucher and will be selected by Dale after the 17th September, 2023.

Landlord Certificates - Why Are They Required?

Thu, 27 Jul 2023 10:19:19 GMT

If you own a rental property with gas appliances, this is definitely worth the read...

It is your responsibility as a landlord to get a Gas Safety Certificate for each one. This certificate, which is required by law, must be renewed every year. Here is why you need a Gas Safety Certificate and how we can help you to get one…

1. Legal requirement: As a landlord, you have a legal obligation to ensure that all gas appliances in your rental property are safe and properly maintained. This is written in the 1998 Gas Safety Regulations, which say that landlords must have a Gas Safety Certificate from an engineer who is registered with Gas Safe.

2. Tenant safety: It is very important for your tenants' safety that your gas appliances are safe and well-maintained. Carbon monoxide leaks can be deadly if they come from broken gas appliances. A Gas Safety Certificate lets you and your tenants know that your gas appliances are safe and in good working order.

3. Avoiding legal penalties: If you don't get a Gas Safety Certificate, you could face fines and jail time. Also, if a tenant gets hurt or dies because of a broken gas appliance, you could be sued in civil court.

4. Insurance requirements: Before they will cover a landlord, many insurance companies need to see a valid Gas Safety Certificate. If there is an accident with gas and you don't have this certificate, you might not be covered.

At D A Bunning Gas, we know how important it is for landlords to have Gas Safety Certificates. Our engineers who are registered with Gas Safe can check your gas appliances carefully and give you Gas Safety Certificates that meet all legal requirements. We can also do regular maintenance and repairs on your appliances to make sure they are safe and keep working well.

Plastic-Free July: Plastic Pipework and it's Impact

Fri, 23 Jun 2023 09:13:01 GMT

Do we need to reduce plastic pipes in the building industry?

The CuSP (Copper Sustainability Partnership) and Safe Piping Matters have recently highlighted the risks of using plastic pipes in the built-environment and how we can help to reduce their risk.

The construction industry is the 2nd largest user of plastic in Europe, and generates close to 2 million tonnes of plastic waste each year! Plastic pipes are particularly harmful and can cause serious harm to people and the environment. The Healthy Building Network says the entire PVC supply chain uses one or more types of “toxic technology” in its production, including mercury and asbestos.

Plastic production facilities are big polluters of air and water and the first part of the lifecycle has a big impact. Plastic comes from fossil fuels, using oil and natural gas to generate the pellets that become feedstock for manufacturing pipes and other products. At the end of their lifespan plastic pipes are either landfilled, adding to plastic pollution, or incinerated, emitting toxic chemical by-products, and further amplifying their carbon footprint.

So what other options are available?

There are several options for piping systems inside buildings that can limit leaching and fire risks, as well as avoiding the environmental and pollution impacts of plastic production and disposal. For example, copper pipe is a resilient, stable and highly recycled material. Iron and steel also perform similarly to copper in terms of both stability and recyclability.

Here at DA Bunning Gas, we are extremally proud to say that when and where possible we will predominantly use copper pipework, whether that be for a boiler installation or radiator pipework for example. You can rest assured that when using ourselves, we are doing our bit to lookout for the welfare of both our customers and the environment.

DIY Gas work is ILLEGAL!

Fri, 26 May 2023 17:00:00 GMT

If you are planning some home improvements this coming Bank Holiday, DIY gas work won't save you money – it could cost your life!

Don't try to fit, fix or move gas appliances such as a boiler or cooker – use a Gas Safe registered engineer who has the right skills to carry this work out safely.

Unsafe gas work can lead to a gas leak, fire, explosion and exposure to carbon monoxide. If you are having building work done in your home always check that your contractor is qualified for the work you need doing. HSE advises that if you need a new gas appliance fitted or your existing gas appliance needs to be removed or moved for building work, your contractor will need to be Gas Safe registered to do this safely.

All Gas Safe registered engineers carry an ID card so they can show you they are Gas Safe registered - always check the card. You can also call Gas Safe Register free on 0800 408 5500 who can tell you if the gas engineer is on the list and qualified for the work you need them to do. Alternatively go to the Gas Safe Register.

Getting Winter Ready

Wed, 11 Nov 2020 13:21:27 GMT

What can you do to keep warm this winter??

It's that time of year again, the nights are drawing in, the temperatures are falling and the phone in the DA Bunning Gas office is ringing off the hook with boilers and fires that are misbehaving. This year also has the added difficulty of COVID-19! As I sit writing this post, Wales has come to the end of a 2 week "fire-break" and England has just started a national lockdown lasting (we hope) until the 2nd December. Although this time, heating engineers such as ourselves have less restrictions on the work we can do, there are going to be customers who are concerned about having engineers in their homes at this time.

So what can you do to try and avoid the panic of coming down one morning and finding your boiler is flashing error codes and no matter what you do isn't going to fire up any time soon?

First things first, get your appliances serviced! If I had a pound for every person who has called us over the years with a fault on the appliance and when asked when it was last serviced replies with "erm... 5 years ago maybe?" or "never", I'd be a very rich woman! Would you take your car on a 200 mile journey if it hadn't been serviced for 5 years?? Doubtful, so why would you expect your boiler or fire to keep working perfectly without it being serviced? So, if you haven’t had your boiler or fire serviced in the last 12 months, get it done now to avoid any unwanted breakdowns in the cold weather, regularly serviced appliances are not only less likely to fail, but if they do fail your engineer is familiar with them, and may be able to diagnose, and more importantly fix the problem that little bit quicker.

Next, Keep an eye on your gas supply. This applies mainly to our customers on LPG but also to those on prepaid meters. Don’t let your gas run out! Every year we get numerous phone calls about boilers or fires not working because the supply has run out and they require resetting. This is especially true during the autumn months. During the summer it is likely that your gas consumption is greatly reduced but as you start to run your heating on the colder autumnal evenings that consumption will rocket! Make sure you're prepared and don't wait until the LPG bottles are nearly empty to order the new ones, keep a full one spare at all times if you can.

You've checked your gas, but your boiler still isn't working, have you checked your boiler pressure? Your boiler pressure will typically be around 1 - 1.5 bar when the system is cold. This is usually indicated on the pressure gauge by a green zone (usually on the front of your boiler). If you find that the gauge is showing 0.5 bar or less, you will need to re-pressurise the system to get your boiler working properly again. Depending on the make and model of your boiler depends on how you do this but check your manual, and this should give you step by step instructions to re-pressurise your boiler safely. Some makes, like Baxi, even have the instructions on the front of your boiler, making it extra easy to get yourself back up and running again.

To avoid this happening to you, keep your pipes well insulated and if they do freeze, defrost them safely by doing the following:

Locate your condensate pipe. This will be a white pipe that comes out of the wall behind your boiler and should run directly into an outside drain.
Boil a kettle and leave it to cool for 10-15 minutes so that it's warm rather than boiling.
Starting from the top and working your way down, pour the water over the pipe until the ice within has melted.
Reset your boiler and it should work as normal.

Alternatively you could a pply a hot water bottle, microwaveable heating pack or warm cloth to the frozen part of the pipe instead.

If you're not sure if your problem is the frozen condensate, some newer boilers have specific error codes for this problem, as demonstrated below:

ATAG - 133

Baxi - E133 or E28

Glow-worm - F28 or F29

Ideal - LF, L2 or F2

Main - E133

Potterton - E133

Valliant - F28 or F29

Viessmann - F4EE

Worcester Bosch - EA229 or D5

Ok, so your boiler is checked and ok, but what about the rest of the heating system? So often, we get calls concerning radiators that are only just warm or in some cases don't heat up at all. This is most commonly down to there being air in the system which can easily be fixed by bleeding your radiators:

Turn your heating on
Identify which radiators need bleeding
Turn off your central heating (don't bleed whilst the pump is running)
Prepare the area (put a towel down to cover carpets just in case)
Open up the radiator bleed valve
Bleed the radiator
Repeat the process on all radiators
Check the pressure of your heating system (this is very important as bleeding the radiators will inevitably reduce the pressure in your system and could stop your boiler working properly)

Occasionally bleeding your radiators won't be enough, and in these cases we recommend trying to balance the radiators before any other interventions are made. If 9 out of 10 radiators are hot but one just stays cold no matter how much you bleed it, we recommend that you try shutting off all other radiators to force the central heating to circulate into that one cold one. If it gets warm, slowly open up the other radiators in sequence to get the whole radiator system working. If this doesn't work then it might be time to get the experts in.

Whilst bleeding your radiators this is also a really good time to checks all your radiators for signs of rust or leaks. Leaking radiator valves are a common cause for boiler pressure dropping, so if you've got a problem with boiler pressure check your radiator valves. If you identify any potential problems get them repaired or replaced, even if that means making plans for work in the spring/summertime. Speak to your local heating engineer if you need any advice on this matter.

Finally, the most important advice we can give you to keep warm this winter is, if you experience any problems or are worried about your gas appliances call in plenty of time. All heating engineers naturally get very busy at this time of year so if there is a strange noise, a small leak or any other suggestion that there might be a fault, don’t wait for your source of heat to stop working before you call, after all it’s much easier and quicker to fix a minor problem than a major one!

Staying warm during the winter months is so important. So be prepared for the more common problems and hopefully this will prevent unnecessary periods without heating or hot water when you need them the most.

GAS SAFETY WEEK is 10!

Wed, 16 Sep 2020 12:16:58 GMT

It's Gas Safety Week 2020 and this year we're celebrating 10 years!

Wow! It's amazing how quickly this comes around but here we are again. The nights are starting to draw in, it's feeling that little bit colder (or at least it's supposed to be), the kids are back to school (at last) and the first hints of autumn are to be seen all around us, but most importantly in's Gas Safety Week 2020!

This year Gas Safe Register are celebrating 10 years of this, their annual safety week to raise awareness of gas safety and the importance of taking care of your gas appliances.

Over the years Gas Safety week has aimed to raise the awareness of all sorts of problems and dangers associated with the domestic gas appliances in our homes, including the dangers of carbon monoxide, the problems with rogue landlords and the roles tenants have to play in keeping themselves safe, and how to check that those working in your homes are qualified to do so.

To aid them in this Gas Safe introduced us to Doug The Gas Safe Superhero back in 2014, and he was then joined by the Safety Squad last year. Members of the Safety Squad include Leon who works for a large Gas Safe registered business and is qualified to work on domestic and commercial appliances. For the past 8 months Leon has been working on a contract fitting gas boilers and smart controls in new-build properties. Aisha who has been working in the industry for the past 12 years. The majority of her work consists of working with local authorities and housing associations to carry out landlord gas safety checks, repairs and maintenance. Bob has been in the industry for over 35 years. He is an all-rounder in the domestic world of gas as he carries out maintenance, repairs and installations and is qualified to work on a wide range of domestic appliances. Bob has always taken pride in his work and enjoys passing on his knowledge to his two current apprentices and finally Olivia who set up as a sole trader in 2017, having served an apprenticeship with Bob for several years. A large proportion of her work involves carrying out annual gas safety checks for homeowners and in rental properties for regular customers, but inevitably she finds herself attending more breakdowns in the winter months, which has helped to grow her customer base.

Last year Gas Safe even published a children's book alongside Sophy Henn, the well-known creator of Bad Nana, entitled "Better Gas Safe than Sorry" where Jeanie and her brother Jack help their Nana to save a neighbour from Carbon Monoxide poisoning. This colourful and informative read can be downloaded from https://www.gassaferegister.co.uk/gassafetyweek/useful-information/better-gas-safe-than-sorry-story/

Every year, through lighthearted fun and heart warming stories Gas Safe Register has managed to communicate some really important and potentially heart breaking facts to the public and keep them gas safe and this year is no different.

Following on from our new found sense of community as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic this year, Gas Safe is focusing on the theme of keeping the community safe. The Ripple Effect, a short informative video has been published on the Gas Safe website and can also be watched on YouTube and shows how one person's lack of gas safety can have a devastating impact on the whole community.

And this is a powerful message at a time when each and every one is thinking about how our actions could cause harm or potential threat to life to those around us as a result of coronavirus. Just because I have had my boiler serviced and checked in the last 12 months does not mean that I am actually safe from the negative affects of poorly installed or maintained gas appliances.

The website staygassafe.co.uk is a fantastic tool that allows us to see how many unsafe appliances have been reported in your local area, but what else could you do to help protect yourself and your community? Firstly make sure your home and appliances are working safely, this can be done for minimal cost by making sure that all appliances are serviced annually and by a qualified Gas Safe registered engineer. Once you know you are safe in your own home, time to make sure those around you are safe. What about your friends and family? Book their services at the same time as your own, that way you know for definite that they are covered. Also, Talk to neighbours, do they have their boilers serviced? Pay particular attention to the vulnerable in your community. That's what Gas Safety week is really about, communication is key to keeping everyone safe, so maybe Gas Safety Week 2021 will be your year to get involved?

The importance of the annual service

Thu, 25 Jun 2020 13:14:57 GMT

Why it is essential for you to have your gas appliances serviced every 12 months

For us at DA Bunning Gas the annual servicing of gas appliances is the backbone of our work, but even though a great number of our customers have their boilers or fires serviced every 12 months come what may, over the years we have also come across many customers who will have had their appliances serviced maybe once or twice in the last 10 years.

So why is it so important to have your appliances serviced regularly?

The first thing I always ask customers who don't have regular services is do they have their car serviced regularly (if they have one) and if so why? If you're driving around you want to know that your car is in good condition to avoid not only break downs but also potential accidents.

The same has to be said for servicing your boiler or your fire. Gas appliances have the potential to kill you!

Gas Safe state that there are three main risks that can arise from having an unsafe gas appliance in your home:

Gas leaks - A gas leak can cause fires or explosions. If you think you can smell gas, then you’ll need to call your emergency service provider immediately. During a gas safety check, a Gas Safe registered engineer will do a visual inspection of pipework and a tightness test to confirm there aren’t any gas leaks.

Fires and explosions - Safe appliances burn gas in a controlled way, but a faulty appliance or pipework may leak gas which can then be ignited, causing a fire or explosion.

Carbon monoxide poisoning - Carbon monoxide (CO) is a highly poisonous gas that can be especially deadly because you can’t see, taste or smell it.

As I discussed in an blog post earlier this year , Carbon Monoxide gas from faulty gas appliances kills people every year, too many people! And although not every day occurances, gas explosions do happen and people can die or be left extemely poorly as a result. As if to prove my point, there was even a potential one just this week (24/06/2020) in South Wales that left several people in a critical condition.

So one way to significantly reduce the risk of such events is to get your boiler or fire checked annually to make sure it's working correctly. Also, although in this modern age boilers are often capable of telling you if something is wrong, just like your car, technology can fail and therefore a thorough clean and check over by a fully qualified gas engineer will hopefully spot any potential issues before they crop up.

The annual service can also do wonders to avoid potential breakdowns.

If I had a pound for the number of phones calls I get each winter from people complaining that their boiler or fire isn't working and when I ask the question "when was it last serviced?" I then get a lot or erm's and ahh's resulting in the honest truth of "I don't know", I'd be a very rich person indeed! It also suprises me how many people will only phone to book in for a service when their appliance is no longer working correctly.

The thing is, as many people will know, the winter months are a busy time for us heating engineers, so you may end up waiting a good number of days to get your appliance fixed, and if it needs a part, you might be waiting even longer. Yet, if you'd had your annual service booked in just a couple of months earlier, it's possible that your enginner would have identified a potential fault then, replaced the part and then left you with a nice warm house all winter long. It's not 100% fall proof but I know I'd rather reduce the risk and pay £70/80 for a service than be without heating or hot water for a couple of weeks in the depths of a deep freeze!

And then there's the subject of warranties.

So you've paid what is a lot of money to have your swanky new boiler or a smart modern looking fire installed last winter? It's only a year old right? Why bother getting it serviced? Well, what's the point in paying all that money for a new appliance that comes with, what can be up to 10 years parts and labour warranty, to then void that warranty by not getting it serviced? I honestly don't understand why people do this. Ok, your boiler is only a year old and is working perfectly, but what happens 5 years down the line when something goes wrong? That missed service (or services) can seem pretty expensive when you're handed the bill for £500 plus to replace a part that would have been free if you'd just BOOKED YOUR SERVICE!

There is no law that says you have to get your gas appliances serviced (unless you're a landlord of course then it is manditory) but that doesn't mean that you shouldn't. I most cases one missed service won't be a problem, but what if your appliance isn't most cases? I say again, the majority of people would not drive a car if it hadn't had a service for the last five years, so why would you use a boiler or fire that hasn't been serviced in the last 10?

So if you've got a gas appliance in the house and you've not had it serviced in the last 12 months, pick up the phone, dial the number and book your annual service today!

Gas Safe Register - The facts!

Fri, 29 May 2020 12:44:37 GMT

Clearing up a few things about the Gas Safe Register

So as Gas Safe registered engineers we are often asked the same old questions from customers, usually things like "what is it?" "what does it mean" and more often than not "Is that Corgi?". So for this months blog post I thought I'd set out a few facts about the Gas Safe register and dispell a number of myths about what it defintiey is not.

1. What is the Gas Safe Register?

Be honest, do you know what the Gas Safe Register is? To be frank, before I met Dale I didn't have a clue what the Gas Safe register was, and therefore it doesn't suprise me that over 10 years later there are still a large proportion of our customers, friends and even family that don't really know what the Gas Safe register is.

According to their website the Gas Safe Register is an "official list of gas businesses who are registered to work safely and legally on boilers, cookers, fires and all other gas appliances."

Simple really, its one of those trade websites where you can find a gas engineer to come and service your boiler. Well yes, but it's more than that, as you will see, for as well as being an actual register, Gas Safe is also the gas registeration body that regulates all the engineers included in their list. We have to follow their rules and regulations, keeping you and your appliances safe.

2. So, what is the Gas Safe Register for?

The Gas Safe register is there to protect YOU! Gas appliances can be dangerous and in the wrong hands lethal, so Gas Safe are here to make sure that anyone working on gas appliances are doing it safely and correctly. To keep you safe, Gas Safe do this through:

a national investigations team tracking down illegal gas workers
regular inspections of Gas Safe registered engineers
educating consumers and raising awareness of gas safety
investigating reports of unsafe gas work

As a Gas Safe registered engineer we can have our work inspected at any point, we have to renew our subscriptions annually and every 5 years every engineer must retake exams in order to maintain those qualifications, thus keeping them up to date on all things gas related.

3. Gas Safe? Do you mean Corgi?

NO we definately do not! Gas Safe Register replaced CORGI as the gas registration body in 2009 so if anyone tells you they are Corgi registered they are not Gas Safe registered and therefore are illegally working on your gas appliance!

4. My plumber can fix my boiler can't he?

Is he Gas Safe registered? Yes? Then if he has the right qualifications he can service your boiler. No? Then legally he can't touch your gas appliances. It is a crimial offence to remove the casing of any gas appliance unless you are Gas Safe reistered!

5. I have a guy service my boiler, he used to be Gas Safe registered but got fed up of paying the fees, is that ok?

NO! If he does not have a current Gas Safe registration that has to be renewed every 12 months he's breaking the law!

6. How should I check to see if my engineer is Gas Safe registered?

There are two ways to do this. Firstly go online to gassaferegister.co.uk and search the database to see if he or she is listed there. Secondly, before letting anyone into your property ask to see their gas safe registration card. Every registered engineer sould carry this with them and if they're legitimate they'll happily show you. If they won't, don't let them in, you are completely within your rights to refuse entry if they refuse to show you the card.

Also, do not presume that if someone has the Gas Safe logo on their workwear or Van or even their website that it means they're Gas Safe registered. Its easy to get the image printed, only a current registered card or entry on the register is proof of their registration.

7. My engineer is Gas Safe registered but I'm not happy about the standard of his work, what should I do?

The beauty of Gas Safe is that they are there for you, the general public. If you're not happy with any gas work and think that it might be dangerous, contact them and they will come and inspect the work. If the matter needs to be taken further, they will do so. Remember, if you're unsure about the work someone has done, they could be doing the same or worse at another property. The only way to keep everyone safe is to work together.

8. Is every gas safe engineer qualified to work on any gas appliance?

No. There are a range of qualifications out there for gas engineers so unless an engineer has passed all the exams they can't work on all appliances. This is why you find engineers specialising in specific areas, for example, domestic or commercial, natural gas or LPG, installations or maintenance. So not only should you be checking to see if your engineer is Gas Safe Registered you should also be checking to see if they are actually qualified to work on your appliance because is they're not, once agin they're commiting a criminal offence.

In order for us all to keep safe it is so important to make sure that those working on gas appliances know what they are doing, and are accountable so that if mistakes are made a process can be followed to make sure that they don't happen again. The Gas Safe Register is the most importnant thing in maintaining our safety, and although there are issues, mostly as a result of under funding, it is important that everyone who has gas appliances in their home or their place of work knows what the Gas Safe Register is and what it does, after all one day it might save your life!

For more information please visit gassaferegister.co.uk

Coronavirus and Gas Safety

Wed, 29 Apr 2020 12:31:00 GMT

Coronavirus or CORVID-19 has had a huge impact on our lives since the first case was confirmed in China back in late 2019. Businesses have shut down, millions of workers have been furloughed, pubs, clubs, restaurants are closed, and the weekly shop has turned into a very strange experience for all. The country is in lockdown and to protect the most vulnerable in our communities that means that we're isolating ourselves from everyone we know and love.

At DA Bunning Gas we've had to make many changes. Fran and Samantha are having to work from home as best as they can with only the occasional trip to the office for essential purposes. Josh's off site training at Shrewsbury College has been put on hold as the college is now closed. And Dale is continuing to work as best as he can whilst following all the social distancing guidelines from the government and Gas Safe. As is inevitable, work has been limited to what is deemed essential.

But what is essential work for a Gas Engineer during these times?

Of course, the most obvious will be emergency call outs. These can come in a variety of forms, the most dangerous and life threatening would be gas leaks. If anyone smells gas at any point during this outbreak of CORVID-19, whether you're shielding, self-isolating or social distancing, whether you're healthy or sick, you MUST take action. Call us, call another engineer or call your supplier, but please call someone!

Gas Safe's recommendations on what to do if you smell gas are as follows:

Act fast!

It’s crucial to act quickly in a gas emergency. These are the steps you need to take to stay safe:

Turn off the gas emergency control valve (also called gas emergency shut off valve) at the meter, unless the meter is located in a basement or cellar or at the LPG bulk tank or storage vessels
Extinguish all naked flames and don’t smoke
Don’t operate electrical switches (including turning light switches on or off) because this can ignite escaping gas
Get fresh air immediately; make sure you open all doors and windows to ventilate the area
Contact the relevant National Gas Emergency service number. For England, Scotland and Wales call 0800 111 999 for natural gas or the contact number on the bulk storage vessel or meter for LPG
If the attending emergency operative identifies an issue with any gas appliances, follow their advice concerning the use of the equipment. Where advised, contact a Gas Safe registered engineer to fix the appliance and check it’s safe.
If you’re feeling unwell, visit your GP or hospital immediately and let them know you may have been exposed to carbon monoxide
Don’t turn the gas supply on again until it’s been checked by a Gas Safe registered engineer

For more information visit https://www.gassaferegister.co.uk/what-to-do-in-an-emergency/

What about if your boiler stops working? Or there's a leak on pipework? It could be that your gas oven keeps tripping out and it's the only way you can cook food, or maybe you're elderly and your gas fire is an essential appliance to keep you warm and its no longer lighting. All these scenarios and many more are, in our opinion, emergency work and therefore essential. If your household is not isolating because of having the virus or shielding to protect a vulnerable household member, this is an easy decision to make, call the gas engineer. However, if you are ill or if you are vulnerable what should you do?

The Government website states

No work should be carried out in any household which is isolating or where an individual is being shielded, unless it is to remedy a direct risk to the safety of the household, such as emergency plumbing or repairs, and where the tradesperson is willing to do so. In such cases, Public Health England can provide advice to tradespeople and households.

Please be assured that if your have an emergency due to your heating or gas appliances, call us to discuss what we can do for you, you should not be forced to live without heat, hot water, or cooking facilities especially if you are ill or vulnerable.

What about annual servicing and maintenance?

Well, again the UK government says

Work carried out in people’s homes, for example by tradespeople carrying out repairs and maintenance, can continue, provided that the tradesperson is well and has no symptoms. ...it will be important to ensure that Public Health England guidelines, including maintaining a two-metre distance from any household occupants, are followed to ensure everyone’s safety.

Gas Safe have provided a wealth of information to us regarding landlords and what happens when their Gas Safety certificates are due to expire.

Landlords have a duty of care to their tenants. This is a legal duty to repair and maintain gas pipework, flues and appliances in a safe condition, to ensure an annual gas safety check on each appliance and flue, and to keep a record of each safety check. During the Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, there is a balance between ensuring people, including the vulnerable, are protected from possibly fatal risks arising from carbon monoxide exposure or gas explosion, while doing what we can to protect people from COVID-19.

So, if you are a landlord, and your current certificate is due to expire, you still have the responsibility to arrange for a gas safe registered engineer to complete the checks on time. But what if your tenants are self isolating or shielding?

Again Gas Safe say

The law is flexible and where it is not possible to carry out a gas safety check, it will normally be enough to show that you took reasonable steps to do so. In the event you are unable to gain access to the property, eg refusal of access due to tenants self-isolating, or if you are unable to engage a registered gas engineer to carry out the work due to a shortage of available engineers, you will be expected to demonstrate that you took reasonable steps to comply with the law. This should include records of communication with the tenant and details of your engineer’s attempts to gain access. You should seek to arrange the safety check as soon as all parties are available.

There have been a number of calls for Gas Safe and HSE to extend gas safety certificates during this time, however, this request has been refused.

Landlords should not suspend all gas safety checks at this time as it will unnecessarily put tenants at increased risk, particularly as people are spending most, and in some cases all, of their time at home. Each property should be considered on a case-by-case basis, completing safety checks where tenants permit access and gas engineers are available. If you are unable to secure the services of your usual engineers, you must make reasonable attempts to obtain alternative services. Where you cannot and resource has to be prioritised you can do so, taking into account factors such as (this list is not exhaustive):

the age and type of appliances;

previous maintenance/work carried out;

breakdown history;

the presence of CO alarms; and

whether the tenant is considered vulnerable for reasons other than risk from coronavirus (COVID-19).

It is also the case that landlord's have the option to arrange to have their annual certificates completed up to 2 months early and still maintain their 12 months from the original date (essentially giving landlords up to 14 months on their new certificates) to allow for the potential difficulties in access as a result of the CORVID-19 outbreak. This is something that we are encouraging our landlords to do to avoid any last minute panic when a certificate has run out but the tenants are denying access as they've recently developed symptoms.

For more advice on this subject Gas Safe have published a number of possible scenarios for landlords and this advice can be found at https://www.gassaferegister.co.uk/help-and-advice/covid-19-advice-and-guidance/landlords/

At present there is no legal requirement for private properties to have gas appliances serviced and certificates issued on an annual basis. However, most manufacturers recommend that appliances are serviced every year and if you have an existing warranty on an appliance it is highly likely that without an annual service for the whole length of that warranty, the warranty will become invalid. As yet, we have not heard from manufacturers to say that they will be honouring warranties without annual services. So, the first thing to say is that if you've recently had a new boiler or fire fitted and it's under warranty, we would recommend getting your annual service booked unless there is significant reason not to do so.

But what if your appliance is out of warranty? Should you still be having your appliances serviced at this time?

Gas appliances are safe IF they are maintained properly, that is why you are recommended to have your gas appliances serviced annually. 9 times out of 10 everything will be fine. Occasionally appliances aren’t working properly, adjustments may be needed or parts may be required. However, sometimes appliances deteriorate to a point where they become dangerous and could cause fatalities. In these instances it is essential that qualified gas engineers are there to identify and deal with the problem. Repairs and replacements can be made before it's too late.

Similarly if you don't have your boiler serviced and decide to wait until later in the year, it is extremely likely that if there is a problem you could end up without heating, hot water or your fire for a longer period of time at the very time of year that you need it. Autumn and Winter are so busy for us and other heating engineers, what we really want to avoid is a scenario where we can't attend customers as we usually do because we have too much work. So don't wait until then, book your annual service now, it may be worth it in the long run.

All of the above is why gas engineers are considered key workers and why, unless you have symptoms of Coronavirus or are self isolating due to being at high risk if you catch the virus, we are encouraging everyone to continue to call us and keep your gas appliances well maintained. Dale is following all government guidance on social distancing and he and Josh are working as safely as they can given the circumstances. And if you are vulnerable, or if you are experiencing symptoms of CORVID-19, but you have an emergency, don't worry. Call us and we will do our best to get your appliances running safely once again if we can,or we will recommend what alternatives there are available to you.

We understand people’s fears but we also understand the dangers associated with gas appliances and we want do everything we can to keep you both safe AND gas safe.

Introducing the Baxi 800

Fri, 06 Mar 2020 12:21:16 GMT

10 Years peace and mind, what more could you want from a boiler?

Towards the end of last year Baxi launched it's new super duper, all singing all dancing, boiler range - the Baxi 800!

This boiler, at the top end of the Baxi range, boasts a massive 10 years parts and labour warranty (of course like all warranties this is subject to the customer having the boiler serviced by a Gas Safe qualififed engineer of an annual basis) and comes with a Adey Micro2 magnetic system filter as standard to protect the heating system and boiler from any build up of what we in the trade call sludge.

Brought in to replace the not so great EcoBlue range this boiler is essentially the very popular Baxi 600 with a few extras. At DA Bunning Gas we've fitted a number of the 600's since they launched and we've been very impressed with the easy of fitting and customer satisfaction from these boilers, so we've high hopes for the 800 (especially as in our opnion Baxi have struggled to really provide a viable alternative to the Baxi PLatinum...maybe this will be it).

The 800 range includes both a combination boiler, available in 3 outputs (25 kw, 30kw and 36kw) and a system boiler available in both and 18kw and 24kw output. Of course, the system boiler is compatible with the Baxi Megaflow cylinders (see previous post "going unvented" for more info).

As with all Baxi boilers, the 800 is designed to be able to fit inside a kitchen cupboard, is lightweight, despite the fact that its built with top quality brass components, and is easy to use. The 800 comes with Easy-fill permanent filling link making it easier for the householder to top up system pressure and less need to call Dale out to do so. Furthermore the 800 also has optional uSense smart controls, an OpenTherm interface and is

IFOS compatible.

Our main complaint (if we have to have one) is that the 800 is only available with natural gas. This is a disappoinment in an area like Oswestry as we have a number of customers who rely on LPG for their fuel and this means they have limited choice. We can only hope that Baxi will cotton on and eventually give us an LPG version of this boiler in the future.

So far we've fitted just the one 800 combi, but as far as it goes, everyone was happy with the experience. The extra 3 years parts and labour warranty compared to the 600 range does make it an attractive upgrade, although as with everything better, this does mean that you pay extra for it.

To conclude, 10 years parts and labour warranty is appealing, and if you're looking for a new boiler anytime soon we certainly think the 800 range is worth consideration.

The Silent Killer

Wed, 08 Jan 2020 12:01:18 GMT

Carbon Monoxide - Do you know the dangers?

Carbon Monoxide is often referred to as the silent killer, but how aware are you of the risks?

Here at DA Bunning Gas we regularly recommend that our customers install Carbon Monoxide detectors in any room where there is a gas fired appliance, whether that be a boiler, fire or even a cooker. However, although we recommend these low cost items not everyone takes us up on this, and as there is no law to enforce it, there is nothing we can do other than advise.

As a result of this I thought I would look into the facts surrounding Carbon Monoxide poisoning in Britain in a bit more detail, to see just how much of a problem carbon monoxide is in this country and how worried we should be about homes with no detectors present.

According to the Office of National Statistics (ONS) between January 2011 and December 2017 a total of 1221 Deaths were recorded where Carbon Monoxide was mentioned on the certificate. Now, that figure includes a number of circumstances where Carbon Monoxide has played a role in a persons death, including both intentional and accidential poisoning. Importantly, accidental poisoning by and exposure to other gases and vapours accounted for 168 deaths during this time period, thats nearly 14% of deaths caused by Carbon Monoxide, that could have been avoided by installing a Carbon monoxide detector. Shocking!

Furthermore, according to statista.com, between 1995 and 2018, 35% of deaths caused by Carbon Monoxide in the UK were caused by appliances fueled by mains gas, and a further 16% by LPG. The majority of those deaths were between the months of November and January, with people aged between 71 and 80 who lived in either a house or a flat.

So what can you do to avoid either you or a loved one becoming another statistic??? Fit a Carbon Monoxide alarm!!!!!

Modern Carbon Monoxide alarms are similar in design to smoke alarms (which do not detect Carbon Monoxide so don't think you're covered by this) and can be purchased from around £15 at many major retail outlets including DIY stores and supermarkets. We wouldn't recommend the use of 'black spot detector' warning strips as they are too easy to miss and won't alert you if you have a Carbon Monoxide leak when you're asleep. W hen installing and siting the alarm make sure you refer to the manufacturer’s instructions. Typically, audible Carbon Monoxide alarms have a battery life of up to 5 years, so even the cost of batteries is minimal. If you’re unsure which alarm to get, you can speak to either Dale or Josh for advice.

But what should you do if you think you are at risk of Carbon Monoxide poisoning and what are the signs you should look out for?

If you think you might have a Carbon Monoxide leak and are concerned you may be being poisoned, there are six main symptoms to look out for:

headaches

dizziness

nausea

breathlessness

collapse

loss of consciousness

Carbon Monoxide poisoning symptoms are similar to those of flu, food poisoning, viral infections and fatigue. That’s why it’s quite common for people to mistake this very dangerous poisoning for something else. However, If y our symptoms only occur when you are at home and seem to disappear when you leave home, OR if o thers in your household (including pets) are experiencing similar symptoms and they appear at a similar time., you may well be suffering from Carbon Monoxide poisoning.

If this is the case, g et fresh air immediately. Open doors and windows, turn off gas appliances and leave the house.

See your doctor immediately or go to hospital - let them know that you suspect Ccarbon Monoxide poisoning. They can do a blood or breath test to check. AND i f you think there is an immediate danger, call the Gas Emergency Helpline on 0800 111 999.

We don't ever want to hear of our customers succuming to the effects of Carbon Monoxide, so if you're worried give us a ring on 01691 680888 and book an appointment. And if Dale ever mentions on your invoice or certificate that he recomends a Carbon Monoxide detector, think that £15 is worth saving your life for.

Going Unvented

Wed, 30 Oct 2019 14:15:38 GMT

DA Bunning Gas Ltd can now fit system boilers and unvented cylinders

Back in September, we sent Dale off to the Baxi training centre in Warrington for a day course on fitting and maintaining unvented hot water systems.

When Dale first qualified as a heating engineer the option to cover these systems was not offered to him. However, always happy to add a further string to his bow, Baxi offered the opportunity and Dale grabbed it with both hands.

Safe to say he passed the exams and is now fully qualified to install, and maintain, both systems boilers and the accompanying unvented cylinders.

What is a system boiler I hear you ask?

Baxi tell us that "The major components of the heating and hot water system, including the pump and expansion vessel, are built into the system boiler, and a sealed hot water cylinder in the system provides hot water for the taps and heats the radiators. There is no need for a feed or expansion cistern in the loft, which saves space and eliminates the risk of any leaks or frost damage to pipes and tanks".

There are a number of benefits of an unvented system, particularly if your household has a higher than average hot water requirement. This may be because you have several bathrooms or it could be because you have several teenagers in the house using more than their fair share of the hot water.

System boilers provide a high flow rate of hot water to deliver quick filling baths or powerful showers without the water running cold elsewhere in the house. Furthermore, by doing away with the tanks in the loft, you can gain extra storage space (which is probably also needed if you have several teenagers in the house.....).

Baxi currently offer 3 different types of system boiler, including the Megaflow and the 600 (also available in LPG) which come with a 7 years parts and labour warranty, and the newly launched 800 which comes with a whopping 10 years P&L warranty!! What's more, they are all compatible with unvented hot water storage cylinders, such as Megaflo Eco from Baxi’s sister company Heatrae Sadia.

So if you're thinking of an upgrade, you'd like to get of those tanks in the loft but you don't think a combi boiler is enough? Think about a unvented system and give us a ring for a quote today on 01691 680888.

Gas Safety Week 2019

Fri, 20 Sep 2019 12:58:46 GMT

What do you do at home to be gas safe??

At DA Bunning Gas We are proud to support Gas Safety Week, this year taking place 16th – 22nd September.

It never ceases to amaze us how often we hear about potentially dangerous circumstances associated with every day gas appliances such as boilers, fires and cookers.

Badly fitted and poorly serviced gas appliances can cause gas leaks, fires, explosions and carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. CO is a highly poisonous gas that can kill quickly and without warning, as you cannot see it, taste it or smell it.

You may already know this, but do you know that ONLY a Gas Safe registered engineer is legally allowed to work on your gas appliances? Do it yourself? Absolutely not! Get your local plumber to take a look? Don't fall into the trap of thinking that all plumbers are qualified to work on gas appliances - only those who carr y the Gas Safe registeration are qualified AND always make sure that it's in date.

We need gas appliances in our homes, whether they keep us warm, give us access to hot water or are there to cook our food. But we need to make sure that in doing these essential jobs, these appliances are not putting us, our loved ones and even our neighbours in danger. If you own a car I'd bet that you have it serviced at least once a year. The same should go for your boiler or fire.

By taking care of your gas appliances properly you are taking care of your home and your loved ones. Follow these few simple checks to keep you and your family safe.

 Check your gas appliances every year. Gas appliances should be safety checked once a year and serviced regularly by a Gas Safe registered engineer. Tenants – make sure your landlord arranges this. Set a reminder so you don’t forget at StayGasSafe.co.uk.

 Look out for friends and relatives. Some people may be unable to arrange their own gas safety check or may be unaware of what they need to do to keep safe. Help your loved ones by ensuring that they have their appliances checked and serviced regularly.

 Check your engineer is Gas Safe registered. You can find or check an engineer at GasSafeRegister.co.uk or call 0800 408 5500.

 Check your engineer is qualified for the type of gas work you need doing e.g. natural gas, domestic boiler. You can find this information on the back of their Gas Safe ID card and on the Gas Safe Register website.

 Check for warning signs that could indicate your (or others) appliances are not working correctly. Signs may include lazy yellow /orange flames instead of crisp blue ones, black marks on or around the appliance, a pilot light that keeps going out and too much condensation in the room.

 Know the six main symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning – headaches, dizziness, breathlessness, nausea, collapse and loss of consciousness.

 Install an audible carbon monoxide alarm and make sure your friends and relatives have one too. Check they are marked EN50291 and display the British Standards’ Kitemark.

For gas safety advice and to find or check an engineer visit the Gas Safe Register website at GasSafeRegister.co.uk. Alternatively call the free helpline on 0800 408 5500.

Welcome

Wed, 07 Aug 2019 12:56:01 GMT

An introduction to the monthly DA Bunning Gas Blog

Welcome to our monthly blog.

This is where we will aim to answer some of the more common questions that we find our customers asking, as well as offering information and advice on all things gas related.

Whether you are an existing customer or new to us at DA Bunning Gas Ltd, we want to be able to offer our customers the benefits of our experience as gas engineers in one place that's both easy to find and understand.

We hope you find what you're looking for, but of course if you wish to know more you can always call the office on 01691 680888 for further information.