Firebird Super Q

monseiur

Hi, and a happy new year to all
Just a quick question. My oil boiler is a Firebird Super Q (indoors type) It's fitted for over 16 years so is overdue a good clean - which I plan to do next Saturday. I will be removing the front panel to get to baffles etc. When re- fitting this front panel do I have to use heat resistant mastic or should it seal OK without mastic?? I'm a bit concerned that if I uses mastic it might difficult to remove the next time, or is there some other sealing product that I should use. Have not done this before, so on a bit of a learning curve here!

Thanks, M.

jimf

I would strongly advise not to undertake this job yourself

but to ans your question no you should not need to use silicone to form a seal

the combustion door is sealed with its own gasket but this needs to be tested using a flugas analyser for 100% sealing integrity

do you have a carbon monoxide alarm fitted

DGOBS

A word to the wise, hire a professional to come and service your boiler.
It requires more than 'a clean out' and needs to be done on an annual basis.

Incorrectly set, serviced and sealed appliances (especially indoors) have the potential to create Carbon Monoxide in your home.

monseiur

Thanks Jimf & DGOBS for replies.
The boiler has been serviced fairly regularly, but it's the oil burner end of
things that gets done. At no time was the front panel removed and the baffles etc. cleaned with wire brush, hoovered out etc. to the best of my knowledge.
I mentioned this to two different service guys over the years and I always got the same response 'it's burning kerosene which is clean burning,does not produce any soot/residue so no need to clean'' perhaps they're right.
But I'm of the opinion that a certain amount of rust etc. has built up over the years and that a good clean out would make it more efficient.
A carbon monoxide alarm is fitted.

M.

Wearb

Servicing an oil boiler is not a DIY job, period!

Regardless of what anyone told you, it's not a service without doing both boiler and burner and a DIY'er hasn't the equipment to do that.

DGOBS

Also, if thats what both guys told you, it's time to search for the 3rd service guy, as all baffles require removing and cleaning on every service.
If anyone disputes it, tell them its in the manufacturers service instructions.

esox28

I second what was said above,

look up the 'oftec' web site for reputable oil service engineers in your area.

ive never seen a clean combustion chamber....especially in the super Q, they have this funny hanging baffles arrangement which sulphur deposits build up on.

Tom44

Flues onto Super Qs need to be checked for leakages too. (Back of boiler)


As the others have recommend, you need a better quality service engineer.
Never risk DIY on any boiler, especially indoor ones.
You've seen the numerous safety adds warnings on TV and seen tragic stories on the News

monseiur

Thanks all for replies, will leave it to the professionals as advised and will be present when next service is done to ensure that both boiler & burner are done.
M.

Wearb

monseiur wrote: »

Thanks all for replies, will leave it to the professionals as advised and will be present when next service is done to ensure that both boiler & burner are done.
M.

If you want oversight from some of the lads here, post a pic (redacting any identifying info) the combustion analysis printout that you should be presented with at the end of the service.

Just check before hiring that this will be provided.