Gas Water heater in rented accom - no thermostat

jordylass

I just wondered if anyone had any experience of a heater like this.

I have moved into rented accomodation, the landlord did tell me that the boiler would make a noise if it was left on too long, but I wasn't aware of how much of a problem this would be. The first time I turned the water heater on I went out for a few hours when I came home there was water dripping off the upstairs ceiling and down all the walls, and steam coming out of the taps.
The water heater has no timer or thermostat so it just keeps getting hotter and hotter and ends up boiling in the tank. When I told him what had happened and was there anything he could do, he said that it was gas checked before it was rented out, and that was fine and that he was sure I wouldn't let it happen again, (which I haven't).

The heating system is blown air gas heating, with a seperate heater for the water, and I just wondered if anyone else has this sort of heating and it works the same way, or of there is a simple solution, (timer or thermostat) I could fit.

oh_heck

your landlord is responsible for gas and electric appliances and their repair maintenance,in my opinion you should first ask to see the last gas safety certificate (there should be a sticker someone on /near the appliance with the date of when it was last checked),it doesn't sound right at all that it hasn't get a control timer or thermostat.................it is the landlords responsibility not yours but make sure you bring it to his attention again.

personally I would get the make /model number and ring the manufacturers ,they will soon tell you what controls should /shouldn't be on the system;)

robowen

Put briefly...
Yes it should have a thermostat on it to shut the gas off when the required temperature is reached !

rob

katiepops_2

I'm fairly sure that your landlord has a legal requirement to give you a copy of the gas certification when you move in. Him saying that it was 'gas checked' before you moved in doesn't actually confirm that he has a certificate either, does it.

If he can't or won't give you a copy, you need to report him - not quite sure who to though - perhaps you could ring British Gas and ask for their advice - or your local Council.

Presumably if the boiler doesn't have a thermostat then it is not fit to be used, and your landlord is acting illegally if he doesn't get it sorted out straight away.

Kate