Basic tools for dealing with CH

R

ringer

My work is mainly electrical, but I need to tackle a CH installation - replacing Mid pos valve this time but anticipate more work like this in future. I have only a very few tools for plumbing, can you suggest a few must-haves for CH work?

For the current job I will certainly need to part drain the CH loop and would rather have a proper tool than use a pair of pliers, so for starters, what tool do you use to release the drain cock?
 
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adjustable spanner , grips , hose , bungee cable for tying up ballvalve , radiator key , a wet and dry hoover are very handy if your expanding your budget that much
 
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FYI - Which ever adj spanner is to hand, but my preference is a 4" Bahco.

I'm not knocking you, but this is a pretty basic question. It's a bit like a plumber asking a sparks how to take a plug top off!, are you sure working on CH system is the right thing to do?
 
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You may be able to change 3 port valves and other c/h components but can you deal with the black art of heating wiring? most sparks struggle with it!😀😀😀
 
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mark.brazenor@b said:
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I'm not knocking you, but this is a pretty basic question...
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Dislike using pliers/adjustables if there is a proper tool available. Have searched for a dedicated tool but without luck.

ecowarm said:
You may be able to change 3 port valves and other c/h components but can you deal with the black art of heating wiring? most sparks struggle with it!😀😀😀
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actually, yes, I believe I do understand heating wiring. Is an area I hope to be able to specialise in as I understand that some plumbers and most electricians seem to struggle with it.
 
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You could get a set of open ended spanners for each size nut you may come across, but do as the rest of us do. Adjustable spanners and pump pliers.

Eco

I have actually blown the minds of some very good sparks with some of my systems. Some are still unable to take solid food or breath without the aid of an iron lung!
 
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Dedicated tool might help if you have good access but what use is it if the drain cock fails and you need to drain via a rad?

Ive not seen a tool like you mention but maybe the sheds? For me hunting around through my box for it when ive an adjustable in my hand already makes no sence.... and its something else to lose or leave behind 😱
 
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ecowarm said:
You could get a set of open ended spanners for each size nut you may come across, but do as the rest of us do. Adjustable spanners and pump pliers.

Eco

I have actually blown the minds of some very good sparks with some of my systems. Some are still unable to take solid food or breath without the aid of an iron lung!
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A week or two late but I have to agree , I served my first apprenticeship as a sparks, we could install a supply to anything but then I learn t there is more to it than this - central heating controls or any other and they were all baffled they could wire an s plan or a y plan from memory or a diagram but did not have a clue how it functioned

The morale is learn your self
 
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I have a square headed spanner from years ago that fits perfectly. Its was for adjusting brake shoes on my mini

I keep it in the top of my tool box so i know where it is and I thought the OP was a perfectly reasonable question.
 
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Scottley said:
I have a square headed spanner from years ago that fits perfectly. Its was for adjusting brake shoes on my mini

I keep it in the top of my tool box so i know where it is and I thought the OP was a perfectly reasonable question.
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Thanks Scottley. I did expect a bit of plumbers vs electricians banter so have taken most of the comments on the chin and survived. It is, however, nice to get a positive response such as yours. I know the sort of spanner you mean, and will try one out. Again, thanks.
 
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Most tradesmen are thick skinned enough to take it i suppose. Im sure the electricians forum would give me the same advice if i told them i was about to carcass out my extension for the electrics.I can d the basics and get a pro in when i get stuck, the three way wiring for example!
 
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