HEATING FOCUS: SPARE PARTS


DON’T FAKE IT ‘TILL YOU MAKE IT


The use of genuine parts in boiler repairs is a topic that remains an important part of the agenda. BMJ looks at why it is important merchants debunk myths surrounding third-party components.


U nlike non-genuine parts,


manufacturer-approved boiler components can provide a high- quality repair that returns the


appliance to optimum performance, safely. That’s according to Dave Willetts,


commercial director aftersales at Baxi Heating. “When spares are provided by reputable suppliers such as urselves, installers can be confident any parts are of a high standard, and able to perform more effectively for longer, while safeguarding boiler reliability” he says.


However, despite this, many installers still pt for non-genuine parts instead. This decision is often based on myths about these counterfeit parts – myths that Willetts says merchants can help disprove,


Myth One – Non-genuine parts are reliable


Willetts says that installers may invest in non-genuine parts in the belief that the cost savings over manufacturer-approved components outweigh any perceived drop-off in reliability. “However, this cannot in any way be guaranteed. Indeed, because they have not been approved, these parts may be vulnerable to issues that can affect reliability, and result in costly call-outs for the installer.


“For example, non-approved flue parts may be made of a different material from their genuine counterparts, meaning they could degrade quicker upon exposure to ultraviolet light. Installers may also run the risk of causing boiler lockout through the recirculation of combustion products, resulting in appliance corrosion and elevated levels of carbon


monoxide. A possible freezing hazard can also occur due to condensate leaking internally through ill-fitting counterfeit parts, creating a potential nuisance.”


Myth Two – No Two – Non-genuine parts are cheaper


Much like their approved counterparts, many copied components are able to fit their respective boiler. As such, installers may look to prioritise upfront cost over manufacturer guarantees, so they can offer lower installation


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prices to the customer. Yet, Willetts says that a non-approved part will differ from those specified in the manufacturer’s technical file, resulting in varying performance. “Merchants should remind installers that any variations in fit, tolerance, lifespan, or material quality, may lead to inefficiencies and premature wear. Over time, this will eliminate any initial up- front savings the customer and the installer may have made” he says.


“Indeed, the installer will have to purchase replacement parts to repair boilers for the increasingly unhappy customers, damaging both their reputation and the prospect of repeat business.”


Myth Three – Non-genuine parts are safe


Though an unapproved part may look similar to its manufacturer-approved counterpart, Willetts points out that it is important to note that they have not been subjected to strict certification testing. “Genuine boiler parts undergo extremely stringent British or European standard testing, ensuring they can withstand demanding situations that might be experienced during a boiler’s working life” he says.


“By being subjected to these situations, which include fluctuating gas pressure and mains voltage, appliances fitted correctly with these parts can operate normally with minimal risk. Consequently, installers can purchase these parts with full assurance that they are safe.”


Non-genuine boiler parts, by contrast, are


not tested in this way, or with the appliances with which they are


intended he continues. “In fact,


using these components with a


previously-approved boiler is classed as modifying it. This modification, especially when applied to safety-critical components, invalidates the appliance’s existing certifications required by the Gas Safety (Installation & Use) Regulations, and could make it unreliable or even dangerous. It also means that any warranty on the boiler is invalidated.”


Myth Four – Non-genuine parts are not my responsibility Finally, and most importantly, Willetts says that builders and plumbers merchants should remind installers that they remain responsible for the boiler repair and works not only whilst they are on site, but also once they have left the premises. If there is a catastrophic failure or problems with the boiler post repair, it remains the installer’s responsibility. “Taking this into account, installing any non-genuine parts may not only risk the installer’s professional reputation, but also the customer’s safety, so why would installers consider this an option?


“With that in mind, it is in an installer’s best interest to opt for manufacturer-approved parts and spares, as they may be held liable in the event of a breakdown or accident. When set against the risk of prosecution, it is clear that any initial savings realised through the use of non-genuine parts are ultimately short- sighted and ill-advised. So why would you take the risk?” BMJ


B www.buildersmerchantsjournal.net September 2019


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