In this blog post, our heating engineers have listed a few boiler maintenance tips for you to think about to avoid overspending on your heating bills. If you want to contact us for a boiler replacement in Medway, Dartford, Gravesend, and nearby areas, simply call us on 07712 172171 or email us at bcuplumbing@hotmail.com.
Tips for maintaining and prolonging the life of your boiler
1. Schedule a boiler service at least once a year
One of the most important things you can do to extend the life of your boiler is to schedule an annual service. When you book a boiler service, a Gas Safe registered engineer will come to your home and perform the necessary inspections and tests.
This helps ensure your boiler is in good working condition. We recommend servicing your boiler yearly to save future repair expenses and issues since they will be detected and/or prevented sooner. An annual service also helps maintain the efficiency of your boiler, ensuring it operates at optimal performance. A well-maintained boiler uses less fuel, which can significantly reduce your energy bills. If you're interested, click the button below to visit our boiler servicing service page to learn more about how we can assist you.
2. Get your radiators powerflushed and bleed them regularly
Another excellent alternative for maintaining your boiler in good working order is power flushing. Power flushing and bleeding your radiators may clean the system while also reducing stress on your boiler by making it work less hard. This is especially crucial in an open system with a traditional boiler and should be performed by a skilled heating professional. This is also another service that a Gas Safe registered engineer has to do on your property. The service includes cleaning sludge, corrosion, and debris from radiators and central heating systems to make them run more efficiently. One powerflushing job has a lengthy lifespan (often 5 to 10 years) and can extend the life of your central heating system.
Bleeding your radiators is a simple yet effective way to keep your heating system running smoothly. Over time, air can become trapped in the radiators, causing cold spots and reducing their efficiency. By regularly bleeding your radiators, you can ensure even heat distribution and improve the overall performance of your heating system.
3. Purchase a magnetic filter
If you haven't fitted a magnetic filter, they catch sludge and pollutants from your central heating system and help your system and pipes function considerably more effectively. Installing a magnetic filter is a relatively simple process, but it can make a significant difference in the long-term health of your heating system. By removing debris and preventing blockages, a magnetic filter helps maintain a consistent flow of water through your boiler and radiators, improving efficiency and reducing wear and tear.
4. Make use of inhibitor fluids
This can help to minimise scale in the system, which is useful in places with a lot of limescale. Limescale accumulation is affected by whether your home has hard or soft water. However, limescale can be a major problem for certain people who have hard water. Using inhibitor fluids regularly can prevent the build-up of limescale and corrosion within your heating system. These inhibitors work by chemically neutralising the minerals in hard water, protecting your boiler and pipes from damage. This simple addition to your maintenance routine can extend the life of your boiler and ensure it runs more efficiently.
5. Turn on the central heating regularly during the summer
This may appear to be an unusual suggestion. We all look forward to summer because it allows us to switch off our heaters and save money on our high-energy bills. However, you may reduce the probability of a boiler problem by turning on the heating for a few minutes once a month during the summer.
When boilers and central heating systems are switched off, sludge slowly builds on the boiler's pump. If it builds up over time, it can infiltrate the system and prevent the central heating from turning on during the winter, forcing an expensive boiler repair.
6. Check the Pressure
Regularly checking the pressure of your boiler is important to ensure it operates correctly. Most boilers have a pressure gauge that should read between 1 and 1.5 bar when the system is cold. If the pressure is too low or too high, it can affect the efficiency and safety of your boiler. Follow the manufacturer's instructions to adjust the pressure if necessary.
7. Insulate Your Pipes
Insulating your pipes, especially those that run through unheated areas like garages or lofts, can prevent them from freezing during cold weather. Frozen pipes can burst, causing significant damage and leaving you without heating. Pipe insulation is inexpensive and easy to install, providing an extra layer of protection for your heating system.
8. Monitor for Unusual Noises
Pay attention to any unusual noises coming from your boiler or heating system. Banging, whistling, or gurgling sounds can indicate air in the system, limescale build-up, or other issues that need addressing. If you notice any strange noises, it’s best to have a professional engineer inspect your boiler to diagnose and resolve the problem.
9. Keep the Area Around the Boiler Clear
Ensure the area around your boiler is free from clutter and obstructions. Good ventilation is essential for the safe and efficient operation of your boiler. Avoid storing items close to the boiler that could restrict airflow or pose a fire hazard.
Want to know more?
If you would like to know more about how you can maintain your boiler, get in touch with our team by calling 07712 172171. Our gas engineers in Gravesend, Medway, Dartford, and nearby areas are happy to answer your call. We hope you choose BCU Plumbing for any boiler services that you may require.
