Can I box a back boiler/gas fire into a cupboard?

[Tom83]

Hello

I've had a google around but haven't found anything that suits my situation.

I have an old back boiler (complete with a typical lovely eyesore 80's gas fire) in the chimney breast in my kitchen that used to be a dining room. The gas fire part of it is never used. Obviously it's massively in the way now that the space is used as a kitchen. I currently have a kitchen island on wheels pushed up in front of the fire but I'm wanting more cupboard and worktop space. I can't seem to find any guidance on what kind of clearance is required around such a boiler/fire if I wanted to box it into a cabinet, or if the idea is a complete no go.

Any ideas?

 

[king of pipes]

No definitely not time for a new boiler . cheers kop

 

[jtsplumbing]

Is this still being used ? if so I think that If you have a new kitchen it would be a good idea to call in a GS guy and get this checked out , These need a certain amount of air to work correctly and other factors that must be taken into account for your safety !.

 

[Tom83]

The gas fire part isn't in use and hasn't been for about 15 years plus. The back boiler however works perfectly fine and controls heating/water so we're going on the basis of if it ain't broke don't fix it. We're not getting an entire new kitchen either - if we did then I'd rip it out. I'm more just wanting to try to utilise my space better.

 

[quality]

it aint broke dont fix it I agree with, but boxing it in will break it and then will need fixing

 

[Chalked]

Sorry but the it needs clearance weather you use the fire or not. The boiler takes combustion air from the fire and is designed to work with the fire fitted.
It's leave it or replace th lot. 🙁

 

[Tom83]

Right thank you, looks like I'm not getting more cupboard space then! What about if a length of worktop went over it (not touching the top of the fire). Obviously it would then still be open all around except above.

 

[quality]

You could do what ever you like, but safety may be compromised as manufacturers clearances may stipulate dimensions that you could alter. I personally would take no risk with an open flued appliance

 

[king of pipes]

Time to close this one guys wheres Dan&Luo

 

[Harvest Fields]

Nope. It is very dangerous. However it doesn't stop people from doing it. Please please please do not do this.

 

[Tom83]

Definitely not going to do it, didn't want to take a chance which is why I asked.Thanks a lot for your help everybody