Electric cooker installation

[Some Might Say]

Hi folks, not sure if I have posted in the right place, but I'm looking for some advice on installing an electric cooker.

I intend to replace my old free-standing electric cooker with a new one. I went to a department store who do the delivery and install. The person asked me a few questions about where the cooker will be placed and the surround, and I was told that they would deliver the cooker but an electrician wouldn't touch it.

The issue is that behind the cooker there is a vertical water pipe that is boxed in with MDF and painted. This was never an issue before, but I understand that regulations change.

So, to the experts, do you agree that it is an issue and, if so, what would you recommend I should to do to proceed?

Any advice would be appreciated.

 

[snowhead]

What was the exact reason given.
The fact the MDF is painted, or that there is MDF or the fact the box will push the cooker forward off the wall?

 

[Wilko]

Hi - can you post up a pic of the spot? I think it is unlikely the store has an Electrician on hand to do the work so they are probably just working off a tick sheet.

 

[snowhead]

Does it fit in with this?

 

[Some Might Say]

Thanks for the replies.

The MDF box and painted surface was given as the reason they would not install the cooker, and looking at Snowhead's post they were correct as it is situated in the middle of the Hot Zone.

It's a small kitchen with very little scope to relocate the cooker.

 

[Lister1987]

If I'm understanding right, the hot zone only applies ABOVE the cooker, not immediately behind and under the op of the cooking level so providing the MDF falls below the top of the cooker then installation should be fine.

Thoughts?

 

[davesparks]

MDF isn't exactly the easiest thing to ignite, even a well frayed edge of it takes some effort to catch light.
But if its really a concern then clad the MDF with something not readily flammable, like tiles or some other sort of splashback.