Flushing gas central heating systems before further action

Taking the water out of a fully pumped central heating system makes many maintenance tasks easier. If you have a maintenance plan, such as British Gas Homecare, you may be spared this. If you need to maintain your central heating yourself read on. To exchange metal radiator valves or add an additional radiator as an example. Usually this function will be executed by your plumber but in some circumstances it can be performed by the experienced maintenance handyman.

Cleansing the radiators is the most frequent driver of this activity. Before any work is attempted you need to switch off the central heating pump and gas boiler. To enable the system to completely drain you will need to see to it that no water is getting into the heating system.

The heating system has a header tank in the attic which will… Read more….

Emptying a pumped gas central heating system

At some point in the life-time of your fully pumped central heating system you will want to clear it. To work on a metal radiator problem or to extend the system perhaps. Whilst this will be performed typically by an experienced heating engineer it is something that the standard jack of all trades can execute if they have the knowledge of other household maintenance jobs.

In most circumstances Flushing the central heating is executed to clean the metal radiators. Switching off the central heating boiler and heating pump should be the first steps you take. Prevention of any extra water entering the heating system is also a priority.

Your central heating system is filled up with water through the expansion cystern. The expansion cystern uses a ball valve similar to that in a toilet system. As the water reaches maximum level… Read more….

Carbon Monoxide and gas appliances, what to be aware of

Co is one of the most toxic gases and it is indiscernible with no smell or taste. The gas is a by product of burning with insufficient oxygen supply such as can happen in a poorly ventilated boiler. The deficiency of oxygen means that Carbon Monoxide Gas is produced rather than the less grave Carbon Dioxide. Tragically there are thirty Carbon Monoxide poisoning deaths every year and many more injuries although this could be worse without the implementation of air guidelines and adoption of regular gas boiler servicing.

Will looking at my gas boilers show me I have a Co issue?

Gas burning in an oxygen poor atmosphere can develop visible deposits which can color gas appliances and the walls surrounding them. You can also check pilot lights and other gas flames that ordinarily burn blue through an inspection chamber if fitted. You should call in… Read more….