The gas boiler flue safely gets rid of carbon monoxide from the home. If there is a blockage in the flue, or it is damaged, gas may leak back into the house and become a health hazard.
There are several reasons why the flue becomes blocked or damaged. Debris and leaves can obstruct the flue, or a bird may have built its nest in the flue. A poorly installed boiler with a faulty flue connection can over time cause a gas leak. However, a faulty flue may not be noticed if the annual service is missed. Modifications and repairs to the heating system by unqualified tradespeople can compromise the correct working of the flue.
A gas boiler could appear to be working fine, but the flue could still be faulty. A carbon monoxide alarm placed in a room that a flue passes through will alert you if there is a leak. It’s important to test alarms regularly by using the test button and replace batteries as soon as you hear the low battery sound.
Check that chimneys and vents are always unblocked. If you see soot marks, unusual condensation or the boiler pilot light keeps going out, these could be signs of a faulty flue.
Fortunately, a faulty flue is very rare if the boiler is fitted and serviced by Xgas. An expert gas engineers in Chester that is on the Gas Safe Register will have the knowledge and experience to identify faulty flues and the skills required to mend them.
