Boiler Installation

  • 10-20 hours
  • Advanced
  • 2,500-5,000
What You'll Need
New boiler
Spirit level
Boiler installation kit
Wrenches
Pipe bending tool
Copper pipe
Sheet metal pipe
Drill
Sheet metal screws
Screwdriver
Black threaded pipe
What You'll Need
New boiler
Spirit level
Boiler installation kit
Wrenches
Pipe bending tool
Copper pipe
Sheet metal pipe
Drill
Sheet metal screws
Screwdriver
Black threaded pipe

Boiler installation is a complex undertaking. It’s something you can do yourself, but you should be aware that boiler installation has to conform to local building codes. You’ll need to be familiar with these codes before you begin. Failure to follow the building code can result in you having to tear out the system and begin again. If you don’t have extensive plumbing experience to complete the task, the best idea is to employ a professional for the boiler installation. It will cost more, but the job will be done properly, and you can be sure that it also complies with the building code.

Step 1 - Locating the Boiler

Where you choose to place the boiler is vitally important. It needs to be close to water lines, gas lines, an electrical outlet and the flue for venting purposes. The ground needs to be level too, so check it with a spirit level and even out the surface as necessary. Unpack the boiler and place it on the surface, checking once more to ensure it sits level and in the right position for installation.

Step 2 - Dressing the Boiler

With the boiler in place, you now need to 'dress' it or add on the pipes. Using the wrench, attach the circulator pump to the boiler and add the riser nipple. This will connect the pipes for the different zones of your house (there will be several zones depending on the size of the home). Attach the appropriate number of riser nipples and attach these to the pipes from the different zones with the wrench.

Step 3 - Feed and Return

Now, you need to attach the feed and return pipes to the boiler. Usually, the circulator pumps will be on the return side of the boiler with the flow-check on the feed side. These are attached by tightening the nuts with the wrench. You will also need to attach the boiler to the hot water tank. Use a copper pipe and the appropriate fittings. If you need to bend the pipe, use a pipe bending tool.

Step 4 - Installing the Flue

The boiler will need to be vented and this will be done through the flue or smoke pipe in most cases (other types of boilers will need other venting methods). Use a sheet metal pipe of the appropriate size to connect the boiler to the smoke pipe, adding elbows if necessary. Drill holes and attach with sheet metal screws to the boiler and the smoke pipe for a secure fit.

Step 5 - Gas

Now you’re ready to attach to the gas line. With natural gas, you’ll need to use black threaded pipe. Follow the instructions in the boiler manual for attaching the gas line to the boiler.

Step 6 - Starting the Boiler

With everything connected, you’re now ready to start the boiler. Open the water line and allow the boiler to fill. The automatic feed valve will fill the boiler to the correct pressure. At this point, you will need to bring in a professional to complete the boiler installation. He will be able to start the boiler correctly and check for CO2 output, making adjustments where necessary as well as checking the flue venting.