Why a heating power flush?
If sludge and debris are not removed from heating systems, it can accumulate in radiators, pipework and heat exchangers, causing severe blockages. This diminishes the transfer of heat and can result in pipe, radiator valve and heating control servo valve damage. In some cases this will eventually lead to the premature failure of the boiler. Powerflushing is a popular method of cleaning and maintaining a central heating system. A powerflushing unit sends water and a cleaner at high velocity through the system to dislodge and remove debris, limescale, and sludge build-up. A thorough powerflush will improve heat distribution throughout the property, subsequently lowering household energy bills and increasing system reliability.
Powerflushing is a technique used to clear out sludge from central heating system pipes, radiators, coils and heat exchangers. These are areas where scale and corrosion are most likely to collect and cause problems.
This is how a typical power flush is done:
- Note the temperature of each radiator (so we know which ones are clogged)
- Record TRV settings for each radiator
- Take a water sample
- Open all valves and remove the TRVs
- Bridge any valves or equipment that may prevent a reverse flow, for example, a pump
- Isolate the boiler
- Connect the power flushing unit
- Power flush the system with water and a cleaning fluid to loosen any stubborn particles from the radiators
- Take the temperature of individual radiators and compare to original radiators
- Test the water for purity, that it is clear and sludge free.
- Add a rust inhibitor
- Refit the radiator valves and the apply original settings
Frequently asked Questions
Q: Will the radiators need to be removed?
A: In some cases, compacted sludge can only be removed by removing the radiators and manually cleaning them with a powered pressure washer/hose but this is only in extreme cases so the radiators shouldn’t need to be removed.
Q: Instead of having the system flushed can I not just install a magnetic filter?
A: Sludge and rust trapped inside the radiators will not circulate with the water, so won’t be captured by a magnetic filter. These filters work well as a preventative solution but won’t remove any existing sludge.
Q: I have had my radiators repeatedly flushed, but they keep blocking up with sludge, why is this?
A: This might be because your heating system is allowing air into the pipework, this will accelerate the corrosion of the pipes and radiators. We suggest you have your heating system checked by a qualified engineer before you flush the system again.
Q: How often should I have the system power flushed?
A: GHP suggest every ten years but most consumers wait much longer.
Q: Can all types of central heating systems be flushed?
A: Yes, all types of water-based central heating systems can be flushed.
Q: Are TRVs (radiator valves) an issue?
A: No, the pins can get stuck as a result of the sludge, but this is easily fixed and these valves are also easy to replace.
Q: Should I have the central heating system drained and refilled every year?
A: No. This will only add oxygen and other impurities to the water; this will accelerate the corrosion. You’ll also need to top up the inhibitor which will just add to the cost.
Q: What is the sludge made from?
A: It is mostly rust that corrodes from the metal pipes and radiators, but also contains contaminants and scale from the water.
GHP South Limited use fully qualified plumbers for power flushing works.
All our plumbers take pride in their work and will always take the time to explain exactly what they are doing.
GHP will give a fair and honest quote for any works and a full explanation as to why we have arrived at that price.
And if, after the initial survey, we do not think you need a power flush we will tell you and suggest a cost effective alternative (if one is even needed!) for you to consider.