Boiler fitted using 5A Plug

[GBDamo]

Just been speaking to a neighbor who has recently had a new boiler installed.

For some reason (probably not CPS) they have not used the DP FCU that the old boiler was wired into and instead put a plug on it and used an existing double socket.

Has this been done to avoid having to issue a MWC for wiring into the existing FCU? Would this require a MWC and if so could the have been smart by disconnecting the flex from the boiler and wiring it into the new boiler thus avoiding interfering with an accessory?

Other than being shonky, is there any direct contravention of the BYB by using the plug/socket route.

My thinking is that there are Isolation and Functional Switching facilities local to the boiler and emergency Isolation by means of the DP switch(RCD) in the CU so while not ideal, and not how I would do it, it is not non-compliant.

Fire away......

 

[Taylortwocities]

I am glad to see a plug because I can be 100% sure it's safe when I pull the plug.

I wouldn't trust it. I have seen several installations where the boiler and the controls have separate isolation points.
I still check with my tester before putting me fingers in there.

 

[Dave OCD]

Yeah some people interpret local isolation as being in the same street.

 

[saspm]

554.3.3 the heater or boiler should be permanently fitted to the electrical supply through a dp linked switch

 

[Richard Burns]

554.3.3 the heater or boiler should be permanently fitted to the electrical supply through a dp linked switch

That is for heaters with immersed and un-insulated elements not a standard domestic boiler.

 

[peteheat]

I wouldn't trust it. I have seen several installations where the boiler and the controls have separate isolation points.
I still check with my tester before putting me fingers in there.

I fully agree with you also many boilers especially boiler house and outdoor modules are fitted with frost thermostats which require a permanent live, obviously that is separate to the switched live.
Mistakes can and do happen when tradesmen assume everything is OK instead of carrying out the few tests that only take minutes but can mean the difference between going home at the end of the day or loved ones booking a half day with the undertaker for them.

 

[Deleted member 26818]

There's nothing wrong as such with using a plug and socket for a boiler.
Not sure if the FCU is connected to the RFC, or on a separate circuit?
I would prefer a separate circuit, whether it be an FCU or plug and socket.
As far as I am aware, most MK sockets are double pole, as are many other makes.
Not sure about the 3mm contact gap.
Thou as has been pointed out, removal of the plug would provide a gap much more than 3mm.

 

[GBDamo]

Thanks all, you have confirmed my thoughts that it is might be alright but probably not.

I love electrics.....

 

[Octopus]

Thanks all, you have confirmed my thoughts that it is alright.

I love electrics.....

Edited that for you...

 

[Leesparkykent]

Edited that for you...

Hmmm...even if its a switched socket that's not been confirmed as being double pole?

 

[Octopus]

^^ double pole of its unplugged

 

[Pete999]

Hmmm...even if its a switched socket that's not been confirmed as being double pole?

What about a DP socket?