There are a large number of different central heating problems that can arise. Be sure to address any issues that pop up as quick as possible, because if you don’t the problems can sometimes snowball – what may start out as a small problem that’s relatively cheap to fix can turn into a much bigger problem – with a much larger price tag for it to be put right. There are a few central heating troubleshooting procedures that you can take to identify problems, but unless you know what you’re doing it’s probably a better idea just to call in the professionals.
Powerflushing is one way to address central heating problems
We all know that central heating systems are a complex network of pipes and wires. Within these pipes blockages can sometimes occur, usually due to a build up of foreign bodies in your central heating system. Once in place, these blockages can lead to big problems like poor circulation. Poor circulation is a problem in the cold months, and it’s very noticeable; if the radiators in one room don’t seem as warm as radiators in other rooms, you could very well be suffering from poor circulation within your central heating network.
Not only do blockages cause a problem with circulation, but they can also lead to other central heating problems, including boiler issues. Boiler repairs are particularly expensive, so you should do your very best to avoid having to have boiler repairs carried out. If blockages are left unattended to in your boiler system they can cause big problems inside your boiler – sometimes repairs are too expensive and a new boiler works out cheaper. Don’t let a small problem become a bigger issue – sort out an issues you identify before they mutate into larger problems.
Powerflushing is a great way to remove blockages from central heating systems, and the good news is that a lot of different companies offer powerflushing services. Local plumbers are usually the best people to ask about powerflushing – if they can’t offer the service for you, there’s a very high chance they will be able to recommend someone who can. Alternatively, a quick internet search will bring up a whole load of powerflushing firms in your local area.
The powerflushing procedure should only be carried out by a qualified professional, if it goes wrong you might end up with a very large bill to put any problems right. What happens when powerflushing is used on a boiler is simple: a jet of water is sent around the network of pipes in your central heating system at high speed. The purpose of this fast jet of water is to remove or dislodge any blockages that may be in place. It’s not just older central heating problems that can be addressed through the use of powerflushing; new installations can benefit from it too, because it helps to remove substances and debris that may enter during the fitting of a system. If you’ve just had a new central heating system installed it may just pay to ask your plumber’s advice on whether or not you could benefit from a powerflush.
Central heating troubleshooting tips
When it comes to central heating troubleshooting there are a few tips that most homeowners can make use of that will help to alleviate basic central heating problems. Only carry out central heating troubleshooting procedures if you’re completely happy to do so – if you don’t feel you’re qualified to do them, don’t bother trying! Here are some of the most useful central heating trouble shooting tips:
- Bleeding the radiators using a special key will help with lots of central heating problems. Use the special key that should have come with your radiator – bleeding a radiator should only be done when the central heating system is turned off. By bleeding a radiator you’re removing air from your central heating system – just one of the central heating problems this can alleviate includes poor heat distribution.
- Check your central heating timers and clocks. If your heating system is on a timer but it fails to come on, don’t automatically assume the worst. Sometimes it can just be a case of the internal clock having been reset by a power outage or similar. Check the timer is still set correctly before assuming you’ve got bigger central heating problems than you may assume.
- Central heating problems caused by stuck heating valves can sometimes be alleviated by a light tap with an implement such as a hammer. Notice the use of the word “light” however, put a towel or sponge between the implement and the radiator to soften the blow and avoid paint damage.
Above are just a few central heating troubleshooting tips, they will help to remove some of the most basic problems and faults that can occur within a central heating system.
Address central heating problems before the winter arrives
It goes without saying that the coldest months of the year are when you rely on your central heating the most. It’s always a good idea to give your central heating system a try before the winter sets in, that way if there are any problems you can give a plumber or heating engineer a call and get the issues fixed before winter arrives.
If central heating problems pop up during the winter it’s always important that they’re fixed, and fast. In some towns and cities you may be able to find express or rapid response plumbers and heating engineers who will attend your home straight away. If you’re not that lucky, you should definitely take some time to try and source an electric heater – if you have the money to buy one that’s great, if not it’s always possible to try and borrow one from friends or family who may have a spare sat laying in their attic or the garage. Borrowing or buying an electric heater is not the answer to central heating problems, but it is a great way to keep warm in the mean time whilst waiting for repairs to be carried out.
As central heating systems are so complex there are lots of different things that can go wrong. Never attempt to fix it yourself unless you know what you’re doing. Whilst it is true that money is tight for a lot of people, you cannot put a price on safety. Just because you’re not feeling flush doesn’t mean you should compromise your safety by attempting a central heating repair yourself. When it comes to central heating problems it pays in the long run to pick up the phone and call a professional.