Insight

Winter service checks and stock essentials

The impact of rain and low temperatures can pose problems for fuel storage, so it is important to be aware of this during a service visit. It is important to check for water in a liquid fuel storage tank during the service.

The increased penalties for those who fail to comply are a result of changes being introduced to the Building Safety Act to ensure these standards are met.

Loose filling and vent caps, sight gauges and damaged float gauges are common problems and can result in the ingress of water. If this is overlooked, and we experience extreme drops in temperature, it can be a lot more difficult to resolve once frozen, leaving customers without heat or facing unnecessary repairs. Also, visual inspection of the tank for cracks, distortion or leaks is important.

Checking flue terminals for leaves, clutter and items being stored too close is also something of which to be conscious.

As many of you will be aware, it is common to attend a service visit and be faced with additional requests or problems from the customer, so stocking up on common items is a good idea. For vulnerable customers, changing the batteries on battery-operated thermostats, telemetry for fuel level gauges and checking CO alarms are jobs that can be really appreciated, even the setting of the time clock can be helpful.

When a service is carried out it is important to record any non-compliances or required remedial work on your CD/11 liquid fuel servicing and commissioning report and, where necessary, advise of any potential or immediate risks on a CD/14 warning and advice notice.