If you’re looking to install a boiler in your bathroom, we have some advice for you. We regularly see the bathroom becoming a popular choice for the location of new boilers
This is particularly true for properties that change over from a traditional tank and cylinder system to a new mains pressure combination boiler one
The old airing cupboard or position of the hot water cylinder is often chosen as the new boiler location as many of the necessary pipes are already there.
Regulations when installing a boiler in a bathroom
When siting a boiler in a bathroom there are some important regulations to observe, though. The position must allow for the boiler flue to exit the building and terminate safely and the location must provide adequate space for servicing the boiler
It is also important that there is enough air circulation around the boiler when placing the boiler in a cupboard. All these dimensions will be listed in the manufacturer’s installation instructions and can vary from boiler to boiler.
Bathroom zones
Particular attention must be paid to the regulations regarding electrics. The bathroom is divided into zones governed by the proximity of taps, showers, and any water.
Zone 0 is the area inside a bathtub or the shower tray.
Zone 1 is the area above zone 1 to a height of 2.25m from the floor.
Zone 2 is an area stretching 0.6m outside the perimeter of the bath and to a height of 2.25m
from the floor.
Zone 3 is anywhere outside zones 0,1 and 2 (subject to specific limits) and where no water jet is
likely to be used.
Where can boilers go?
When installing a boiler in a bathroom the boiler needs to be installed outside of zone 0, 1 and 2. The appliance must not be reachable from a bath or shower as wet hands and certainly, electricity don’t mix!
The main electrical spur must be outside of the bathroom and the boiler should generally be housed in a cupboard with a proper closing door so that it is shielded from spray, mist and dampness. If in any doubt, please refer to the relevant Building Standards and the manufacturer's instructions.
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