Having a replacement gas appliance.

[ProfJohnL]

Whilst this is not specifically caravan related, it is a domestic consideration that many caravanners are likely to encounter at some time.

I have just received my copy of the Consumer associations magazine "Which?". This month they have surveyed domestic heating boiler. They highlight an issue which can often be forgotten when engaging a contractor to do any gas work. This principally applies to the fitting of a new installation, but it would also apply to replacing an appliance of with one of a different design or manufacturer.

If you're anticipating replacing or having a new central heating boiler fitted, then its worth doing research into the best brand and model you wan't. When you have identified your preferred make and model, you contact your gas fitter who then tries to convince you you would be better with a different make and model!

You may have confidence in your fitter but I have to admit that sometimes that confidence may be misjudged. Which? states:-

"Its interesting to know that heating engineers can only install boilers from manufacturers they are accredited to install"

This applies to any gas appliance fitted by a trades person under the Gas safety (Installation and Use) Regulations, and would also apply to caravans if you are having work done by a trades person.

The moral is to invite potential fitters to tell you if they are approved to fit the model you have chosen. If they are and they still try to get you to fit an alternative ask them if they receive any sort of incentive to fit the make or model they are suggesting.

Which? also suggests if you have a preferred make and model, it may be worth contacting the manufacturer for a list of accredited fitters for your area.

Keep Warm

 

[Raywood]

An interesting article but not sure there is the same problem with caravans. In the domestic products market there are on the face of it large numbers of manufacturers although I do know there is a lot of badge engineering goes on. This means that fitters can be faced with a big range of models many of which will be different. In the caravan market there are usually only two suppliers of any particular item so fitters will generally be meeting them both all the time and know the fitting procedures well so the possibility of mistakes through lack of knowledge is far less.
To my mind this lack of competition is possibly why the items are less reliable and more expensive than they should be.