Boilers FAQs
Frequently asked questions and answers about boilers' codes, inspections and other information.
Do boilers located in apartment buildings require inspection?
Yes, if the output BTU capacity is 200,000 BTU'S or greater and located in a building of three units or greater (RSA 157-A:6,III; RSA 157-A:8).
Do hot water heaters have to be inspected?
Yes, if they have an input BTU capacity of 200,000 per hour (RSA 157-A:6,III; RSA 157-A:8; RSA 157-A:10).
Do hot water heaters need to be built to the ASME Code?
Yes (New Hampshire Administrative Rules Chapter LAB 1202.01; Boilers and Pressure Vessel Code of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, 2015 Edition).
Do I need my air tank or pressure vessel inspected?
Yes, provided it is five cubic feet in volume (RSA 157-A:6,III; RSA 157-A:8; RSA 157-A:10).
Do I need to have my certificate for boiler or pressure vessel (air tank) posted?
Yes (RSA 157-A:9-a,V).
How much will it cost to have the state inspect my boiler or pressure vessel?
There is a charge of $100 per hour for inspections performed by employees of the Department of Labor. (RSA 157-A:3)
Is the State of New Hampshire the only state requiring boiler and pressure vessel inspections?
No. Presently 48 or 50 states mandate these inspections.
My boiler or pressure vessel leaks. Can I have it repaired?
Yes. If welding is required, it shall be done by a contractor holding an 'R' stamp (New Hampshire Administrative Rules Chapter LAB 1203.02 Repairs and Alterations).
State boiler and pressure vessel certificates have been received with the wrong numbers. What do I do?
Contact your inspector.
What if I need an extension in time to have my boiler or pressure vessel inspected?
A letter shall be submitted prior to the expiration date (New Hampshire Administrative Rules for Chapter LAB 1202.01 Boilers and Pressure Vessels).
What if my boiler inspector has found code violations?
The violations must be corrected prior to the unit being placed in service (RSA 157-A:9-A).
What is the difference between a high and low pressure boiler?
Low pressure boiler operates at a pressure of 15 PSI or lower (RSA 157-A:2,VI). High pressure boiler operates at a pressure greater than 15 PSI (RSA 157-A:2,VII).
What should I do when I received an overdue boiler or pressure vessel notice?
Call your insurance inspector or the Department of Labor.
Who is qualified to do boiler and pressure vessel inspections in New Hampshire?
Inspectors holding a National Board Commission and employed by a Jurisdiction or an Insurance Company writing this type of insurance in New Hampshire (RSA 157-A:7).