Watch out for counterfeit heating spare parts

HHIC is calling on heating engineers to remain alert to the growing number of fake spare parts.  

Counterfeit parts often look similar to genuine versions but are frequently manufactured using inferior materials and without any testing or accreditation. Some even carry false CE markings. Their use can lead to premature failure, breakdowns and unsafe situations such as gas or water leaks.   

In extreme cases, poorly manufactured seals or components can contribute to carbon monoxide incidents. As a result, fitting fake parts risks invalidating warranties and damaging consumer trust in the heating engineer. “These fake components are putting household safety at risk, undermining appliance reliability and exposing installers to potential legal and financial consequences,” warns HHIC director 
Stewart Clements. 

Genuine spare parts are engineered and certified to operate under the exact conditions the appliance is designed for and can be identified through correct branding and part numbers. Heating appliances such as gas boilers, hot water cylinders and heat pumps are rigorously designed, tested and certified before being approved for sale and must comply with relevant health, safety and environmental legislation.  Every component inside them must meet strict safety and performance standards.   

The compliance process involves conforming to specific directives and standards and carrying out rigorous testing. This compliance enables manufacturers to apply the CE or UKCA mark.  Safety-critical and control components within the appliance must also carry the appropriate CE mark.  

Not just spare parts 

Counterfeits are not limited to spare parts: they can also include accessories such as programmers, timers and flues. Typically, these fakes originate from internet sales sites such as eBay and are not from a specialist spare part supplier with physical premises. If a part is significantly cheaper than usual, that’s another indication it might not be genuine. 

For those working with gas appliances, the implications are even more serious. The Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998 make engineers fully responsible for the safety of any component they fit. If a counterfeit part fails and leads to an incident, the installer could face prosecution and serious harm to their reputation. 

Businesses that knowingly sell counterfeit or refurbished parts without proper disclosure are treated as manufacturers in the eyes of the law and may be prosecuted under product safety, copyright and trademark legislation. 

Stewart Clements says: “Just because a part fits does not mean it has been tested to withstand the stresses and conditions the manufacturer designed the appliance to handle. Installers must protect themselves and their customers by sourcing parts only from recognised, reputable suppliers.” 

He adds that HHIC is urging the entire industry to work together to keep fake parts out of the market. Installers who encounter suspicious components should report them to Trading Standards. “The safety of consumers and the professional reputation of heating engineers depend on the continued use of genuine, approved parts,” he says. “We need continued vigilance to ensure our industry remains safe, trusted and compliant.”