Blog>Expert Advice>Everything you need to know about boxing in a boiler

Last updated: 11 March 2025

Everything you need to know about boxing in a boiler

Is your boiler installation ruining your kitchen's aesthetic? Boxing in a boiler can instantly improve the appearance of your space, but there are few keys factors to consider first. From safety regulations to the best ways to box in a boiler, we've got you covered.

Everything you need to know about boxing in a boiler
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Are you researching options for boxing in a boiler? You've come to the right place.

Boilers are typically installed in the kitchen. However, a boiler installed in the kitchen often sticks out like a sore thumb, so it's no surprise that you're here looking for a way to safely hide your boiler!

Is it safe to box in a boiler?

It is safe to box in a boiler but you will need to meet specific safety requirements. However you choose to hide your boiler, you must comply with the manufacturer's guidelines.

Modern boiler appliances do not need to be ventilated but they do need to receive enough oxygen to combust fuel and work efficiently. Also, there is an increased risk of carbon monoxide poisoning if there is not enough space around your boiler.

Safety regulations for boxing in a boiler

The following safety regulations must be met when boxing in a boiler:

  • Accessibility: There must be enough surrounding space for the boiler to be easily serviced, repaired, and maintained

  • Ventilation: There must be adequate space for air to circulate around the boiler

  • Fire safety: Fire-rated materials may need to be used to box in a boiler. This is typically the case for older gas boilers that have a higher risk of overheating

In addition, you will typically need to comply with the following guidelines:

  • Leave a gap of 30mm between the top of the cupboard and the top of the boiler

  • Leave a gap of 100mm between the bottom of the cabinet and the base of the boiler

  • The cupboard door must open

  • Leave a gap of 700mm between the boiler and the surrounding cover/wall

Check your manufacturer's handbook for the specific measurements needed to safely box in your boiler.

We recommend speaking with a Gas Safe engineer to make sure your plans comply with current guidelines.

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Best ways for hiding a boiler

Not all boilers are installed in a utility room or separate storage space. If your boiler is installed in your kitchen, here are four effective ways you can hide this bulky appliance:

1. Build a cupboard

One of the best ways to box in a boiler and benefit from added storage space is with a custom-made kitchen cupboard.

As long as there is enough space around the boiler, the cupboard can also include shelves. You can further maximise this added kitchen storage by adding a spice rack to the cupboard door.

A boiler cupboard can be painted or finished to seamlessly blend with the rest of your kitchen units.

We recommend hiring a professional tradesperson to make sure your design plans comply with safety guidelines. Expertly built boiler cupboards are also typically of a higher quality than DIY installations.

2. Build a wooden box

A simple wooden box can effectively hide a boiler and box in its pipes. Use plywood or MDF to build the structure and make sure to include a door. The box needs to open otherwise you won't have access to your boiler!

Make sure the box has a snug fit around the boiler while also keeping enough space to comply with safety guidelines. Any pipes visible beneath the box can be painted to make your boiler installation even more discrete.

3. Install into existing cupboard space

It is possible to install a boiler into an existing cupboard space. You will need to hire a Gas Safe engineer to move your boiler from its current position into the cupboard.

A professional is needed to ensure all boiler installation safety regulations are met. Also, there is a lot more to moving a boiler than simply taking it off the wall and mounting it somewhere else.

The majority of modern boilers can be installed into a kitchen cupboard as long as there is enough space and the flue can be safely positioned. If you are planning a new boiler installation, it makes sense to have it installed into the kitchen cupboard right away.

A kitchen fitter can build a custom boiler cupboard but the boiler itself will need to be installed by a qualified engineer.

4. Boiler box covers

Make the most of the added 'wall space' by accessorising the front of your boiler cover.

Fitting a mirror to the boiler box can create the illusion of added space and also bring more light to your kitchen. Alternatively, a notice board can be secured to the cupboard, giving you somewhere to hang the kids' drawings or pin important letters.

Creating a chalkboard is another boiler box cover idea. Simply paint your wooden boiler box with chalkboard paint and have a pot of chalk nearby. You can now use your boiler cover as a family noticeboard or as a place to be creative!

It's also possible to cover your boiler box by hanging a pair of curtains over the installation. Choose curtains to suit your kitchen's existing aesthetic and style.

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Factors to consider when hiding a boiler

Whichever boiler box cover ideas you choose, ensure you consider the following factors:

  • Ventilation: Is your cupboard big enough to comply with ventilation guidelines?

  • Accessibility: Will there be enough space around the boiler for it to be easily serviced and repaired?

  • Pipes: Will the pipes still be visible below the boiler box?

  • Kitchen layout: Will the boiler box match your kitchen's appearance?

  • Purpose: Do you want the boiler cupboard to also be used for additional kitchen storage?

Take some time to plan your project before getting started. Alongside an attractive design, you will also need to make sure your boiler cupboard is safely installed.

Cost of hiding a boiler

The following factors influence the cost of boxing in a boiler:

  • DIY or professional installation

  • Materials needed

  • Type of cover

  • Your location - tradespeople charge varying fees across the UK

You will only need to pay for materials if you're building a DIY boiler cover. Alternatively, you can purchase materials yourself and hire a tradesperson to build the boiler box for you.

Carpenters have the necessary skills to build a safe enclosure for your boiler. We recommend contacting local carpenters to find out if they offer this service and whether their quote includes materials.

The average hourly rate charged by carpenters in the UK is between£30 and £45.

Alternatively, you can hire a skilled handypersonto cover your boiler. These tradespeople are more budget-friendly, charging an average of £30 per hour.

We recommend speaking with a kitchen fitter if you want your boiler hidden inside a bespoke kitchen cabinet.

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Key takeaways

  • It is safe to box in a boiler but space must be left for easy access and adequate air flow

  • A carpenter or handyperson can build a boiler box cover

  • Boilers can be hidden in an existing kitchen cupboard or behind curtains

  • The average cost of hiring a carpenter is between £30 and£45 per hour

Hiring the right tradesperson for the job

A professional carpenter can build and install a custom-made boiler box cover or storage cupboard.

Alternatively, a skilled handyperson will have no trouble building a wooden boiler box cover.

However, you may wish to contact a kitchen fitter if you're looking for a more unique way to incorporate your boiler into your kitchen's design.

These professionals can make bespoke kitchen cabinets big enough to hide your boiler and match your existing kitchen design.

Search the Checkatrade directory to find vetted and approved local tradespeople in your area.

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FAQs

Should you leave an air gap when boxing in a boiler?

You should make sure there is adequate space for air circulation when boxing in a boiler. Boiler cupboards do not need to have in-built ventilation but there must be a small amount of space between the boiler and its enclosure.

Space is needed to make sure the boiler receives enough oxygen to operate safely. Carbon monoxide can be created when a boiler is not able to access the required amount of oxygen.

There must be a 300mm gap between the top of the boiler and the top of the cupboard. You will also need to leave a 100mm gap between the bottom of the boiler and the cabinet.

A clearance of 700mm between the back of the boiler and the wall is also necessary. This space is needed so the boiler can be serviced correctly.

How long does it take to box in a boiler?

The time it takes to box in a boiler varies depending on the extent of the work needed.

A ready-made boiler cover can be fitted in less than an hour. In comparison, it can take several days to build and install a custom-made boiler cupboard yourself.

If you are hiring a professional to cover your boiler, we recommend asking for an estimated timeframe.

Can you enclose a combi boiler?

It is possible to enclose a combi boiler. You can hide this type of boiler in a custom-made unit, an existing kitchen cupboard, or in a wooden boiler box.

Boxing in your combi boiler can improve the overall appearance of your kitchen. With your boiler out of sight, your home may also be more attractive to buyers in the future.

While overheating risks are low, you must still follow the manufacturer's safety regulations when boxing in a combi boiler. Boxing in a gas boiler is more risky, but combi boiler cupboards also need enough space for air circulation and easy access.

How do you build a boiler box cover?

You will need the correct tools, skills, and materials to build a DIY boiler box. Remember, accurate measurements are key to this project. Building a boiler cupboard that is too small can be dangerous.

Here are the steps you need to follow:

  • Buy materials

  • Measure the boiler and cut materials to size

  • Use wood glue and screws to assemble the box

  • Fit a hinged piece of material to the front to create a working door

  • Secure the box in place, remembering to leave the appropriate amount of space around the boiler

  • Paint or add your chosen finish to the box

  • Paint exposed pipes to match your kitchen's colour scheme

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