Glow Worm Energy 15R: A Comprehensive User Guide
Welcome! This manual provides essential guidance for safe and efficient operation of your Glow Worm Energy 15R combi boiler, ensuring optimal performance․
The Glow Worm Energy 15R is a highly efficient, compact combi boiler designed to provide both central heating and domestic hot water for your home․ This boiler represents a significant advancement in home comfort and energy saving technology, offering reliable performance and user-friendly operation․
This model is particularly suited for smaller to medium-sized homes with a moderate demand for heating and hot water․ Its compact design allows for flexible installation options, making it ideal for kitchens or utility rooms where space is limited․ The Energy 15R boasts a modern aesthetic and quiet operation, seamlessly integrating into your living space․
This user guide will walk you through every aspect of owning and operating your Energy 15R, from initial setup and daily use to essential maintenance and troubleshooting․ Please read this manual carefully before using the boiler to ensure safe and efficient operation․
Key Features and Specifications
The Energy 15R delivers a maximum central heating output of 15kW and a domestic hot water flow rate of 2․5 gallons per minute․ It features a fully modulating fan for optimal efficiency and reduced gas consumption․ The boiler incorporates a user-friendly digital interface with a clear LCD display for easy control and monitoring․
Key features include automatic air venting, frost protection, and a scale reducer to prolong boiler life․ It’s compatible with a wide range of heating controls, including thermostats and smart home systems․ The Energy 15R also boasts a compact footprint, measuring just [insert dimensions here], making it suitable for various installation locations․
This boiler is ErP compliant, meeting the latest European efficiency standards․ It’s also backed by a comprehensive [insert warranty period] warranty, providing peace of mind․ Detailed technical specifications are provided later in this manual․
Understanding the Control Panel
Navigating the controls is simple! This section details each button, display indicator, and function of the Energy 15R’s intuitive control panel․
Powering On and Off
Initial Power-Up: Upon initial installation, or after a prolonged period of inactivity, ensure the gas supply is open․ The Energy 15R doesn’t have a traditional ‘on’ switch․ Instead, the boiler activates when a hot water tap is opened or the central heating system demands heat․
Normal Operation: When a demand for heat or hot water exists, the boiler will automatically ignite and begin operation․ The display panel will illuminate, indicating the boiler is active․
Standby Mode: The boiler enters standby mode when there’s no demand․ It remains electronically ‘live’ but doesn’t burn gas․
Complete Shutdown (For Maintenance): To completely shut down the boiler for maintenance, locate the isolation switch (typically near the boiler) and switch it to the ‘off’ position․ Always consult a qualified engineer before performing any maintenance․
Mode Selection (Heat, Hot Water, Off)
The Energy 15R primarily operates in two modes: Heating and Hot Water․ It doesn’t have a dedicated ‘off’ switch beyond the isolation switch mentioned previously․ The boiler intelligently switches between these modes based on demand from your central heating system and hot water taps․
Heating Mode: When your thermostat calls for heat, the boiler automatically switches to heating mode, circulating warm water through your radiators․
Hot Water Mode: Opening a hot water tap instantly activates hot water mode, providing on-demand hot water to your taps and showers․
Automatic Switching: The boiler seamlessly transitions between heating and hot water modes as needed․ There are no manual mode selection buttons on the control panel; it’s fully automatic for user convenience․
Temperature Adjustment
Adjusting the central heating temperature is achieved via the thermostat, not directly on the boiler’s control panel․ The Energy 15R responds to the thermostat’s demand for heat․ For hot water temperature, use the ‘+’ and ‘-‘ buttons on the control panel․ The display will show the target hot water temperature․
Hot Water Range: The hot water temperature can be set between 40°C and 60°C․ We recommend 60°C to prevent Legionella growth, but consider safety, especially with vulnerable users․
Incremental Changes: Each press of the ‘+’ or ‘-‘ button adjusts the temperature by 1°C․ Allow a few moments for the boiler to reach the new setpoint․ Caution: Avoid excessively high temperatures․
Display Indicators and Error Codes
The Energy 15R’s display uses indicators and error codes to communicate its status․ A solid flame icon indicates normal operation․ A flashing flame signifies the ignition sequence․ The water tap icon illuminates during hot water demand, and the radiator icon during central heating․
Error codes are displayed as ‘E’ followed by two digits․ These indicate faults requiring attention․ E16 signals low water pressure (see troubleshooting)․ E22 indicates a flame sensing issue․ Important: Note the error code before attempting any reset․
Refer to the troubleshooting section for detailed explanations and potential solutions․ Ignoring error codes can lead to boiler damage or unsafe operation․ Always consult a qualified engineer if unsure․
Installation and Setup (Brief Overview)
Professional installation is crucial! This section briefly outlines gas, flue, and condensate requirements; detailed guidance is for qualified installers only․
Gas Supply Requirements
Crucially, the Glow Worm Energy 15R requires a suitable gas supply conforming to current regulations․ Natural Gas (G20) is standard, but LPG conversion is possible by a qualified engineer․ The meter must have sufficient capacity to support the boiler’s gas consumption rate – see the ‘Technical Specifications’ section for details․
Gas supply pipework must be installed in accordance with relevant standards (e․g․, BS 6892) and regulations․ Pipe size should be appropriate for the boiler’s gas input and the length of the run, ensuring adequate gas pressure at the appliance connection point․ A gas filter must be installed upstream of the boiler to prevent debris from entering the gas valve․ Always perform a gas tightness test after installation and before commissioning․
Incorrect gas supply can compromise safety and boiler performance․ Do not attempt gas connections if you are not a Gas Safe registered engineer․
Flue Installation Considerations
Proper flue installation is paramount for safe and efficient operation of the Energy 15R․ The flue system must comply with all relevant building regulations and standards (e․g․, BS 5440:1 & 2)․ Flue material must be compatible with the boiler’s combustion products and the flue type (e․g․, PP, concentric)․
Ensure the flue terminal is positioned correctly, avoiding obstructions and complying with minimum distances to combustible materials, windows, and air vents․ The flue must be adequately supported and sealed to prevent leakage of combustion products․ Correct flue sizing is critical to ensure effective removal of exhaust gases․
Never compromise on flue installation quality․ Incorrect installation can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning․ Installation must be carried out by a competent and Gas Safe registered engineer․
Condensate Pipe Installation
Correct condensate pipe installation is crucial, as the Energy 15R is a high-efficiency condensing boiler․ The condensate pipe must be installed with a continuous downward slope to ensure efficient drainage and prevent freezing․ Use appropriate, durable piping material resistant to acidic condensate․
Avoid sharp bends and ensure the pipe is adequately insulated, particularly in exposed areas, to prevent freezing during colder months․ The discharge point must be positioned to prevent splashing and avoid damage to building fabric․
Never connect the condensate pipe to a sewer that is not adequately ventilated․ Installation must adhere to local building regulations․ A trap must be installed to prevent warm air from entering the boiler․ Always consult a qualified installer․
Operating the Energy 15R
Efficient boiler operation involves understanding its controls and features, allowing for comfortable heating and hot water tailored to your household’s needs․
Setting the Central Heating
Adjusting your central heating with the Energy 15R is straightforward․ Begin by ensuring the boiler is in ‘Heat’ mode via the control panel․ Use the temperature adjustment buttons – typically ‘+’ and ‘-’ – to select your desired room temperature․ The current setpoint will be displayed on the boiler’s screen․
For consistent warmth, consider utilizing the programming function to create a heating schedule that aligns with your daily routine․ This allows for automatic temperature adjustments, optimizing comfort and energy efficiency․ Remember to allow sufficient time for the system to reach the set temperature, especially after initial adjustments or during colder weather․ Regularly check radiators for proper heating to ensure balanced heat distribution throughout your home․
Programming Hot Water Schedules
Scheduling hot water with your Energy 15R offers convenience and energy savings․ Access the hot water programming function through the control panel’s menu; You can typically set multiple time periods per day, specifying start and end times, and desired water temperature for each period․
Consider your household’s hot water usage patterns when creating your schedule – for example, setting a boost period before morning showers or evening baths․ The boiler will automatically heat water only during these programmed times, reducing energy waste․ Review and adjust your schedule periodically to ensure it continues to meet your needs․ Remember to save your changes after programming!
Using the Eco Mode
Eco Mode on your Energy 15R is designed to maximize energy efficiency, particularly during warmer months when central heating demand is lower․ When activated, the boiler modulates its output to provide hot water at a slightly lower temperature, reducing gas consumption․
Access Eco Mode via the control panel; a dedicated button or menu option usually exists․ While suitable for general hot water needs, Eco Mode may result in slightly longer heating times․ It’s ideal for periods of low demand or when you prioritize energy savings over immediate hot water availability․ Regularly assess if Eco Mode aligns with your comfort preferences and hot water requirements․
Maintenance and Servicing
Regular upkeep is crucial for longevity․ This section details essential checks, cleaning routines, and the importance of annual professional servicing for your boiler․
Regular Visual Inspections
Consistent visual checks are a cornerstone of preventative maintenance for your Glow Worm Energy 15R․ At least monthly, visually inspect the boiler casing for any signs of damage, such as dents, rust, or corrosion․ Carefully examine all pipework connections – gas and water – looking for leaks or condensation;
Pay close attention to the flue terminal, ensuring it’s unobstructed by debris, foliage, or snow․ A blocked flue can be extremely dangerous․ Check the condensate pipe for any blockages or freezing, especially during colder months․
Also, visually confirm the display panel is functioning correctly and that there are no warning lights illuminated․ Note any unusual noises emanating from the boiler during operation․ Documenting these observations will be helpful during servicing appointments․
Filter Cleaning Procedures
Maintaining clean filters is crucial for the Energy 15R’s efficiency and longevity․ Locate the system filter – typically near the boiler’s inlet pipe․ Always isolate the gas and electricity supply before commencing any filter cleaning․ Carefully remove the filter housing, noting the direction of flow․
Dispose of the old filter element responsibly․ Thoroughly rinse the filter housing with clean water to remove any remaining debris․ Install a new, compatible filter element, ensuring it’s correctly seated․ Reassemble the filter housing, checking for a secure seal․
Slowly restore the water supply, checking for leaks․ Once satisfied, reinstate the gas and electricity․ Regular filter cleaning – every 6-12 months – prevents system blockages and ensures optimal performance․
Annual Servicing Requirements
To ensure continued safe and efficient operation, your Glow Worm Energy 15R requires annual servicing by a Gas Safe registered engineer․ This isn’t merely recommended; it’s a condition of your warranty․ A qualified engineer will perform a comprehensive inspection, including flue gas analysis, combustion checks, and component testing․
They will also clean key components, such as the burner and heat exchanger, and check for any signs of wear or corrosion․ The engineer will verify the operation of safety devices and ensure the boiler meets current safety standards․
Keep a record of all servicing carried out, including the engineer’s name, Gas Safe registration number, and date of service․ This documentation is vital for maintaining your boiler’s warranty and ensuring its long-term reliability․
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Facing problems? This section details solutions for frequently encountered issues with your Glow Worm Energy 15R, aiding quick diagnosis and resolution․
No Ignition – Possible Causes
A failure to ignite can stem from several sources․ Firstly, verify the gas supply is active and reaching the boiler; check other gas appliances․ Secondly, inspect the electrical connection – a tripped breaker or blown fuse will prevent ignition․ The ignition leads themselves may be faulty, requiring professional assessment․
Low gas pressure, even with a functioning supply, can hinder ignition․ A blocked flue prevents proper combustion, so ensure it’s clear of obstructions․ The air pressure switch might be defective, failing to confirm adequate airflow․ Finally, the spark igniter itself could be worn or damaged, necessitating replacement by a qualified engineer․ Do not attempt repairs yourself; gas appliances require expert handling․
Low Water Pressure – Solutions
Insufficient water pressure impacts hot water delivery and central heating performance․ Begin by checking the mains water supply; ensure it’s fully open․ Examine the boiler’s filling loop – cautiously use it to top up system pressure to the recommended 1-1․5 bar (refer to the control panel)․
Air trapped within the system can mimic low pressure; bleeding radiators resolves this․ A partially blocked inlet filter restricts water flow, requiring cleaning or replacement․ Leaks anywhere in the system, even small ones, gradually reduce pressure․ If pressure consistently drops, a professional assessment is crucial to identify and rectify underlying issues like a failing expansion vessel or pump․ Regularly monitor pressure and address drops promptly․
Error Code E16 – Detailed Explanation
Error code E16 on the Glow Worm Energy 15R indicates a flame sensing issue․ This means the boiler is failing to detect a stable flame during operation, triggering a safety shutdown․ Potential causes include a faulty flame sensor, compromised gas supply, or issues with the ignition transformer․
Do not attempt self-repair! First, check the gas supply is on and functioning correctly at other appliances․ Then, power cycle the boiler (turn off and on)․ If E16 persists, it signifies a component failure requiring professional attention․ A qualified Gas Safe engineer must diagnose and replace the faulty part – typically the flame sensor․ Ignoring E16 can lead to incomplete combustion and dangerous carbon monoxide production․
Error Code E22 – Detailed Explanation
Error code E22 on your Glow Worm Energy 15R signals a low water pressure fault․ The boiler requires a minimum water pressure to operate safely and efficiently․ This code indicates the pressure has dropped below the acceptable threshold, preventing ignition or heating․ Common causes include water leaks within the central heating system, bleeding of radiators without re-pressurising, or a failing filling loop․
Before calling an engineer, attempt to re-pressurise the system using the filling loop, following the instructions in the ‘Installation and Setup’ section․ If the pressure cannot be maintained, or E22 repeatedly appears, a leak is likely present․ Do not continue using the boiler if pressure remains low! A qualified heating engineer must locate and repair the leak before resuming operation to avoid damage․
Frozen Condensate Pipe – Prevention & Thawing
During cold weather, the condensate pipe – which removes acidic water produced during combustion – can freeze․ A frozen pipe will cause the boiler to shut down and display an error code․ Prevention is key: insulate exposed sections of the pipe, especially outdoors․ Ensure the pipe has a sufficient fall to allow drainage and prevent water pooling․
If frozen, DO NOT attempt to thaw with direct heat (blowtorch, etc․)․ Gently warm the pipe with warm (not boiling) water, starting from the outlet end․ Alternatively, use a hot water bottle wrapped in insulation․ Never pour boiling water directly onto the pipe! If thawing is unsuccessful, contact a qualified engineer․ Regularly check the pipe during freezing conditions․
Safety Precautions
Prioritize safety! Always follow these crucial guidelines to prevent hazards, ensuring the well-being of yourself and others when using this boiler․
Carbon Monoxide Awareness
Carbon Monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless, and highly poisonous gas․ A faulty boiler can produce CO, posing a severe health risk․ Never ignore symptoms of CO poisoning, which include headache, dizziness, nausea, breathlessness, and confusion․
A properly installed and maintained CO detector is essential in any home with a combustion appliance like the Energy 15R․ Ensure the detector is functioning correctly with regularly checked batteries․
If the CO detector alarms, immediately open windows and doors, evacuate the premises, and call the emergency services or a qualified Gas Safe registered engineer․ Do not re-enter until the source of the CO has been identified and rectified․ Regular servicing by a qualified professional significantly reduces the risk of CO production․
Gas Leak Procedures
Suspecting a gas leak is a serious matter requiring immediate action․ The smell of gas is often described as resembling rotten eggs, but it’s crucial to trust your instincts even without a distinct odor․ Do not operate any electrical switches – this includes lights, phones, or appliances – as a spark could ignite the gas․
Immediately extinguish any open flames, such as candles or cigarettes․ Open windows and doors to ventilate the area․ Do not attempt to locate the leak yourself․
Evacuate all people from the property and proceed to a safe location․ From a safe distance, call the national gas emergency number (0800 111999 in the UK) or your local emergency services․ Do not re-enter the property until authorized by a qualified Gas Safe registered engineer․
Emergency Shut-Off Valve Location
Knowing the location of your Energy 15R’s emergency shut-off valve is vital for quickly isolating the gas supply in an emergency․ This valve is typically located on the gas service pipe directly before the boiler’s gas inlet connection․
It’s usually a bright yellow lever or wheel, clearly marked for emergency use․ Familiarize yourself with its position now, before an emergency arises․ In the event of a gas leak, or if you suspect a fault, turning this valve to the ‘off’ position will immediately stop the gas flow to the boiler․
Turn the lever 90 degrees or rotate the wheel fully to shut off the gas․ Do not force it․ Once shut off, contact a Gas Safe registered engineer for inspection and repair․ Regularly check the valve is accessible and not obstructed․
Technical Specifications (Detailed)
Detailed performance metrics, including gas input, heating output, hot water flow rates, and efficiency ratings, are listed for the Energy 15R model․
Dimensions and Weight
Understanding the physical specifications of the Glow Worm Energy 15R is crucial for installation planning and ensuring adequate space allocation within your property․ The boiler’s height measures 700mm, providing a compact vertical profile suitable for various installation locations․ Its width is 400mm, allowing for flexibility in confined spaces, while the depth extends to 290mm․
Regarding weight, the Energy 15R tips the scales at approximately 30 kilograms․ This weight is an important consideration when determining appropriate mounting and support structures․ Always ensure the wall or surface used for installation can safely bear the boiler’s weight, adhering to relevant building regulations and safety standards․ Proper installation prevents potential hazards and ensures long-term stability․
Gas Consumption Rates
The Glow Worm Energy 15R exhibits varying gas consumption rates depending on the heating output demand․ At its maximum heating capacity of 15kW, the boiler consumes approximately 1․67 kg/h of natural gas․ When operating at a lower output of 7․5kW, the consumption reduces to around 0․83 kg/h․
For hot water production, the gas consumption rate fluctuates based on the flow rate and desired temperature․ A typical hot water draw will consume roughly 1․1 kW of gas․ These figures are based on G20 natural gas; consumption will differ with other gas types․ Always refer to the rating plate on your boiler for precise values specific to your installation and gas supply․ Accurate understanding aids efficient energy usage․
Water Pressure Range
The Glow Worm Energy 15R is designed to operate effectively within a specific water pressure range to ensure optimal performance and longevity․ The recommended minimum incoming water pressure is 1․0 bar (14․5 psi), while the maximum permissible pressure is 8․0 bar (116 psi)․
Operating outside this range can lead to issues such as reduced hot water flow, inconsistent heating, or even damage to internal components․ If your water pressure is consistently below 1․0 bar, a booster pump may be required․ Pressures exceeding 8․0 bar necessitate the installation of a pressure reducing valve․ Regular monitoring of your system pressure is crucial for maintaining efficient operation․
