There is nothing worse than a boiler breakdown. Here’s a rundown of six simple tips that if you apply today should keep your boiler working in tip-top condition for years to come.
Lag Your Pipes
Winters always bring a risk of your pipes freezing. Frozen pipes dramatically reduce the efficiency of your heating system.
To avoid this, homeowners can install lagging for their pipes. This is insulation made from polyethylene or glass wool. They are very easy to install, as all you need to do is to wrap the pipe with the material.
Get an Annual Service
You should aim to get your boiler and heating system checked out around once a year to make sure that it is working properly. If you get the professionals out for a Boiler Installation Tewkesbury based experts http://www.combi-man.com will be able to check that everything is operating smoothly, clean your boiler system and replace or repair anything that is necessary.
In many cases you need to service your boiler on a yearly basis in order to keep the warranty valid.
Keep the Pressure Up
Ensure that your boiler is using the right amount of pressure to operate. The gauge should be in between 1 and 1.5 bars. If the pressure is too low, then your boiler won’t fire up, and if it is too high, there will be too much strain on the pipes. It is best to consult the equipment manual on how to do this.
A Power Flush
According to British Gas, you should use a power flush to clean out the muck and debris from the pipes and radiators. This will remove any sludge build-up, extend the life of your boiler and bring your radiators up to maximum power.
Switch Off the Boiler
If you have a combi boiler, you can switch it to hot water only during the warmer summer months to save money. If you want to prevent problems in the winter, however, it is best to switch the boiler on for 15 minutes once a month during the summer.
Clear the Area
Ventilation for your boiler is important. Place it in an airing cupboard, utility room or kitchen – somewhere clear of clutter. You also need to ensure that it is easy to access for any engineer who needs to carry out repair work.