What Comes Out of a Boiler Flue
Is my boiler flue blocked?
Boiler flues are a vital part of your home's heating system as they allow the potentially dangerous combustion fumes created by your boiler to be safely released outside.
Here, we tell you what a blockage looks like and how to get it sorted.
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What happens if my boiler flue is blocked?
Every year, there are around 60 deaths resulting from carbon monoxide poisoning in England and Wales, with central heating boilers posing one of the biggest risks.
So, ensuring that your flue is working properly and that it isn't suffering from any blockages could be the difference between life and death.
The flue's job is to allow the gases produced by your boiler, mainly water vapour and carbon dioxide, to pass safely to the outside. If your boiler isn't burning gas properly, carbon monoxide can be produced.
The way boilers work means that these gases shouldn't cause any harm. However, having a blocked flue can trap these gases in your home to be breathed in by those living there.
What can cause a blocked boiler flue?
Most modern boiler flues are fixed horizontally to the side of your home, while a lot of older outlets are fixed vertically on the roof of a property. As such, these ducts are highly exposed to the outside world, meaning that there are a host of things that can get clogged in there.
Everything from leaves and general debris to nests and dead birds can create a blockage. The occurrence is more common in rural areas or any properties surrounded by trees, with objects such as conkers and pinecones also particularly troublesome.
Stay safe with an Annual Boiler Service
With an annual service from Boiler Plan, you'll be ensuring that you and your loved ones are fully protected and that there's no risk of carbon monoxide poisoning related to a blocked flue or any other central heating fault.
Our expert engineers will make all the required checks, including any potential carbon monoxide leaks, and leave you with complete peace of mind that your heating is running as safely and efficiently as possible.
Why not take out a Boiler Service Plan, with annual reminders sent to you so you'll never forget another service.
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How to tell if your boiler flue is blocked
It can be difficult to spot the early stages of a blockage, particularly if it is due to a slow accumulation of debris. However, there are some signs to look out for:
Oxidization – Use a cloth to determine if there are any white stains around the connection of the flue as these can indicate a blockage.
Take a look – Some blockages will be visible from the outside, particularly in the case of garden debris. Make sure to check the exterior outlet regularly to spot small signs before they become big problems. There may also be the same white oxidization marks or a black substance on the outside of the flue.
Carbon Monoxide Alarm – Fitting and regularly inspecting a carbon monoxide alarm is vital to protect you and those you live with. You can buy an alarm from most DIY stores. Make sure it is approved to the latest British Standards Kitemark.
What should you do in the event of a blockage?
Turn off the appliance immediately and cut off the gas supply before opening any doors and windows to ventilate the property.
Never try to unblock the flue yourself as you won't know how severe the problem is. It is much safer to book a boiler repair and have an engineer come and take a look at it.
If you think the blockage has been there for a long time, you should exit the property and seek medical attention.
What are the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning?
If the blockage has been there for a long time, you may have already been exposed to carbon monoxide .
Low level symptoms include:
- Tension headaches
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Tiredness and confusion
- Stomach pain
- Shortness of breath and difficulty breathing
- Difficulty concentrating
- Frequent emotional changes
Higher levels of exposure can lead to more severe symptoms:
- Impaired mental state
- Vertigo
- Loss of physical coordination
- A heart rate above 100 beats per minute
- Chest Pain
- Seizures
If you believe that you have been subjected to low levels of carbon monoxide poisoning, seek medical advice from your GP. If you are worried about high levels of exposure, go to your local A&E department straight away.
How to prevent a blockage
The easiest way to prevent a blockage is to keep checking the flue's exterior opening, particularly after periods of gusty wind. That way, debris won't build up and fall deeper into the outlet.
Make sure your boiler and its flue are correctly installed by a Gas Safe Registered engineer. The positions that flues can be fixed to your home are governed by strict guidelines. They must also be fully sealed to exact standards.
Having an annual boiler service is a vital part of preventing a blockage as it will include a thorough check of your flue to determine whether it is restricted in any way and that it is operating efficiently.
How to seal a boiler flue
As well as making sure your flue isn't blocked, it is a requirement to have it completely sealed to prevent gas from re-entering your property.
The flue needs to be sealed in place, usually with cement, on both sides of its exit point, whether this is on the side of a wall or through your roof.
If you're unsure about the safety of your flue, you should contact a Gas Safe Engineer, who will be able to advise you on how securely it is fitted. Tests usually involve using smoke pellets to see if gasses are able to get BACK inside your home through any gaps.
What Comes Out of a Boiler Flue
Source: https://www.boilerplanuk.com/advice-centre/is-my-boiler-flue-blocked/